Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I agree with the proposed amendment and agree the section is demeaning to representatives elected by the people. The section is an affront to democracy. Whatever about excluding Oireachtas Members, with which I do not agree, it makes no sense to exclude the people on the ground, local representatives who have so many responsibilities in the area of road safety, be it speed limits or whatever. I ask the Minister of State to accept the amendment. It is sensible, and there is no sense in debarring local authority members from boards.