Mr. Colm Croffy:

One of the phenomena associated with the recent growth of new conurbations or villages of 400 to 600 houses is the desire of residents to come together to have barbecues or family fun days. I know of cases in which the local authorities that are in charge of these open spaces have asked residents for indemnities of between €3.5 million and €6.5 million, which equates to between €1,500 and €2,800 for a two-day event, or even an event at which people bring out a couple of barbecues and a few deckchairs from their own houses. There might be a small stage, a public address system and a bit of bunting. Such costs are discouraging people from congregating and organising events in a civic-minded manner.