Mr. Tom Moylan:

The AILG campaign for better terms and conditions for elected members looked at the issue of secretarial and administrative support that is required for our members. This issue was touched upon in the announcement last week on additional support. What was announced, however, is very restrictive in the context of whether our members can avail of that extra secretarial and administrative support. Some of the records and statements must be kept for up to 15 years and it will be an additional burden, especially if declarations have to be updated every four months. There is no mention in the Bill regarding the material change in councillors' circumstances that would warrant a new declaration. This is also very subjective and it could lead to additional administration. Councillors have no full-time or even part-time secretarial or administrative back-up.