James Bannon (Fine Gael)

That policy was good for Ireland and the economy and it gave us great standing in Europe. That was the foundation for the Celtic tiger and for good government over ten years. It was started by the collective political parties.

I was interested to hear the Minister say the role of councillors will be more or less a full-time job. Does he plan to reduce the number of councillors and is he proposing to bring forward a recommendation in this regard? This is an issue with which I would not be happy. In any local authority people come in with different views and perspectives. My area is farming and auctioneering. Those who come, business people, publicans and teachers, have a different perspective on life and different agendas. This is very important rather than people coming out of college, going into the local government system and becoming entranced at what national Government is doing. Whatever one's party is doing at national level is a copycat of the local government system. I would not like that type of situation in local government.

After leaving school I got involved in a number of community organisations. I was approached by a political party and asked to stand in the local elections. I stood and was successful. In my deliberations at the local council I make suggestions based on my involvement with the local community. I am still involved in the local community which works for the betterment of my county.