Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Leader, as I have done many times over the last three years, to invite the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to the House to debate local government funding. At this time, many local authorities are drafting estimates and unless we have a debate in the Houses of the Oireachtas and take appropriate steps we will see exorbitant increases in commercial rates. I am concerned that many small businesses will find it more difficult each year to pay 50% of the costs for services enjoyed by all. I seek this debate at the earliest convenience.