John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

I rise to support Deputy Moynihan's Private Members' motion. Last week's budget, as put forward by the Fine Gael-Labour Government, was a blatant attack on families in rural communities with proposals for the closure of 31 Garda stations, a hike in school bus costs and the reduction in teachers for small schools. Reductions in REPS, the disadvantaged areas scheme and the farm assist support will further penalise poor farmers already under income pressure due to the recession. Local improvement schemes will also be abolished while the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government is pressing ahead with charges on septic tank which will mainly affect rural dwellers. I listened attentively to him last week on the septic tank Bill but am still waiting for him to announce grant aid to support those who may have to replace their septic tank systems.

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