Ms Marguerite Ryan:

I do not have the figures for Carlow but the use of discretion has not yet peaked in the Carlow region. From a statistical perspective we are not seeing that it is hitting the maximum of 20% in the majority of cases. However, individual cases may vary. It is a matter for the authority to consider specifically. In addition we have section 43 determinations that provide a little additional scope in terms of specific household classes that fall outside normal bands.