Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I beg the Acting Chairman to give me more time because I want to make a second point. When people are paying a local charge it should be transparent, such that the work that needs to be done in these areas is seen to be done. We should be able to look back on an annual basis and verify that local authorities are doing the work required, whether it be on roads, houses, footpaths or lights. Local area services need to improve now that we are introducing a tax. I call on the Government - whether it is the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government or the Minister for Finance - to ensure that services improve. People do not mind paying for something if the service is improved. I ask that such a provision be included and that we review it on an annual basis.

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