Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour)

I will tell him the Minister told me that. Nevertheless, I welcome the challenge because Members must lead from the front. If they ask the rest of the country to accept cuts and reductions, they also must lead in that regard. I was present in the Chamber this morning and was struck by the number of matters raised under Standing Order 32 on purely parochial and local issues. This measure will shift the balance in this regard, as local government, rather than the national Parliament, should deal with local issues.

As the Government tackles the massive challenges of closing the deficit, reducing spending and getting Ireland back to work, it is critical that Members lead by example. This measure is an important symbol of the changes being brought about by the Government in respect of the way Members and society as a whole work. I welcome the Minister's bravery and the effort he has made in pushing through this measure.

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