Seanad debates
Wednesday, 26 February 2003
Local Government Bill 2003: Second Stage.
There has been one good aspect to Deputies and Senators sitting on local councils. They brought another dimension to council business because they were in the Oireachtas and familiar with legislation. Will county managers think they have an easier mandate because Deputies and Senators will be removed from the equation? The guidelines must be strong if we are to make the sacrifice of vacating a position on the local authority. It is worth bearing in mind that, unlike other councillors, we are not paid for doing this work, so we can feel strongly about the issue. Other Members have pointed out that doctors, teachers and others who are councillors are not criticised for having a dual mandate. Why is it always politicians who are criticised? The roles of councillor and Deputy or Senator are often complementary.
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