Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, Socialist Party) | Oireachtas source

I oppose the amendments. They are part of the Government's bullying, scaremongering approach. In particular, I highlight amendments Nos. 31 and 45, relating to the costs of the court cases. We are dealing with the costs of the second application of two court cases here being awarded against the so-called debtor. It is about intimidating people into paying bills. In this case, it is attempting to intimidate people into paying their water bills, which is outrageous. Amendment No. 45 relates to pursuing those in receipt of social welfare for costs. It is outrageous and is obviously bullying. We will oppose the measure, the Government will pass it, but outside the Dáil the Government will not be able to use it to bully people, who will know that none of it applies until after 2017, given that they must owe at least €500.

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