Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

I have sympathy for those affected by the floods in the midlands. I have indicated to colleagues in the Lower House that I will assist in any way possible. On last night's Adjournment it was inquired whether the Army might be available to assist farmers with distributing fodder. Deputy Finneran was engaged with the Minister for Defence on this. I thank Senator Bannon for raising it even though he is chancing his arm. That is what makes politics interesting.

The contributions from business are voluntary so it is not an additional charge. The distribution of the business improvement districts contribution will be related to valuations which themselves are a reflection of the volume of business. Small businesses, although they will have an equal vote in the scheme's process, will not have to carry an equal burden. The Bill provides for circumstances where a property is unoccupied or demolished. Waiver systems are allowed in the local authority rates system. They require the authorisation of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government but no requests have been made by any local authority for many years.