Pearse Doherty (Sinn Fein)

The Minister of State should ask the Minister to clarify what he considers to be relevant provisions. What does he consider an acceptable minimal level of services to be provided to local authorities? Does he believe it acceptable that no refuse collectors or litter wardens exist in wide areas of County Donegal or that there are not enough planners or staff to process housing claims for disability benefits?

I cannot believe this is the decision that has been taken regarding the council. The Government cannot wash its hands of the fact that 238 people will be made redundant because of the cutbacks inflicted on this local authority.