Michael Finucane (Fine Gael)

I expressed my views on the Order of Business this morning when an amendment was proposed regarding the constitutionality of the Bill. As I have heard other Members speak about this aspect, I will not deliberate on it further. However, there is concern and it is possible the legislation will be challenged. My viewpoint is not the view of my party. I have already told its members that I respect their views as to whether they should be members of local authorities. I favour ending the dual mandate. I have been a member of the council since 1985 and it is right that I should give somebody else an opportunity to become a member.

I must, however, express some concerns. Much of the work of elected representatives has a local authority emphasis. If one was to quantify our representations, it would equate to about 80% while 20% would relate to Dáil and Seanad issues and queries to Departments. It is local issues which are pertinent to the community one serves as a Deputy, Senator or councillor and one is often assessed on the basis of how one performs with regard to them.