The local government fund increases have been ring-fenced and this has worked. It has increased by 130% since 1997, which is a massive investment. It is not a squandering of funds but good management and it has paid dividends. Dublin City Council will receive €81.5 million in 2004, which is an increase of 11% on the total for this year and a 130% increase since 1997. Limerick's funding has gone up 132% since 1997. All this funding is going into providing parks, footpaths, lighting and housing. Over the years the fund has levelled the playing field for areas which did not benefit from improvements taking place in the economy. It has spread the benefits. There has been a large increase in the range and quality of services provided by local authorities. The legislative changes that have taken place, including executive functions for managers, have streamlined the system and the controls and regulations put in place by the Minister in recent legislation will ensure the continued input of all sections, including local representatives. For many years I have heard councillors complain that their function has been diminished. They oversee the implementation of charges. The councillors will decide on the level of the charges; that is and will always be their function. I agree wholeheartedly that developers should have to contribute to the provision of facilities, community facilities, playing pitches and so on. In my experience the vast majority of developers have no problem with making a contribution. The level of charges will have to be decided by March in all local authority areas. That is one of the myths advanced about the charges. We have heard all sorts of rumours about €28,000, €17,000 and so on but no decision has been taken. Councillors will have a part to play when decisions have to be made.