Noel Coonan (Fine Gael)

I also welcome the Minister's decision to increase the numbers, a change sought by both sides of the House. She also proposes to achieve a balance in the numbers. When we originally sought the change, we were informed that it would have to be within the remit of a council of seven persons. We can accept that the number on the council has now risen to nine members, but the correct balance also needs to be addressed.