Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

In tabling this amendment I am sure Senator McCarthy was imbued with feelings for individuals. In equity it would be most unfair if I decide to pay my refuse collection charges and my neighbour decides he or she does not want to pay. Although it could come across as a measure whereby if I pay, I am going to make sure my neighbour also pays, this is not the case; it is about a sense of fairness.

Obviously, the waiver system is in place for those who cannot afford to pay. From my knowledge, managers always had a huge input into deciding who should qualify for a waiver. Representations were made and points of view expressed but the managers decided. The waiver scheme is defined on the basis of the amount of income or social welfare received. Mostly managers are reasonable in their application of the waiver schemes if there is a genuine inability to pay.