Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

No, it is where Deputy Ó Domhnaill started out. He should not blame me if he spreads false information. He continues to perpetuate it. People are paying for services rather than paying more taxes on work. That is the way we are going. This legislation prioritises environmental compliance in line with the European Court of Justice. People will have to pay a modest charge. Nobody is saying that money is plentiful but a modest charge is required to cover administration and inspection costs. We will not impose a charge for re-registration. That is the position today in regard to the €50 charge. Local authorities will, generally speaking, be able to manage within the budgets arising from this registration charge and they will be able to conduct free inspections and issue the various paperwork associated with implementation of the judgment of the European Court of Justice. I do not believe a waiver is appropriate at this stage.