Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
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The numbers as set out by the Minister in the Bill are out of line with local government practice across Europe. The changes will place a huge strain on part-time councillors who will be trying to represent vast new municipal districts. I tabled amendments in this regard which have been ruled to be in conflict with the Bill. Any amendment tabled by a member is in conflict with the Bill because one is seeking to have certain parts of it changed. Moreover, I seek this change in good faith, as Sinn Féin has drawn up figures based on the ratio of councillors per head of population.

We have tried to do it in a more realistic way to be more in line with what is being done in the North and in other jurisdictions across Europe. There are councillors, particularly in Kerry, west Laois and other areas, who will be representing areas that are 40 or 45 miles across bad roads. That is the reason I tabled the amendments. I am disappointed about this. Who takes the decision as to what is ruled out? Did the Minister do it or did civil servants do it for him?