Mr. Aaron O'Connell:

An increase of 20% was piloted in Dublin and subsequently introduced in the regions more recently. The difficulty is that other factors are outpacing these measures, some of which are coming too late. There is a difference and staff in the services are almost afraid to take the initiative. Action is taken almost on a case by case basis when it must be taken in response to need. People need to have the authority to respond, which is not always the case.