Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

The Minister of State made a remark earlier on the inclusion of local authority members. It is important we would desist from the practice of excluding members of local authorities from boards, tribunals and authorities. If I heard the Minister of State correctly, he said they would not be debarred from being included. While I may be wrong, if not, I hope the Minister of State has not changed his mind. It is important we allow councillors to be part of the democratic process separate from being members of local authorities. They have much to offer and many of them are involved in charitable organisations. We deliberately did not put down an amendment to force a vote on this today. However, it is important we have recognition of their role. If I heard him correctly, I welcome what the Minister of State has said.