Jimmy Harte (Labour)

First, I refer to the news of the deaths of the children in the tunnel in Switzerland. Members should consider the implications for the families and I pass on my sympathies to the Belgian ambassador to Ireland, the Belgian community in Ireland and to the Belgian families involved in this tragedy. Most families here have had their children go on skiing holidays to Europe and to wake up to such news this morning puts many things into perspective. One can talk about fiscal treaties and whatever but Members should reflect on this news in their own way.

On the household charge, a Donegal website this morning contains a claim by a solicitor to the effect this charge is not sound in law. The Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Hogan, should come into the House and put the legal implications on the record because there is much misinformation abroad. A campaign is under way in my native County Donegal to stop people from paying this charge, the revenue from which ultimately will return to Donegal County Council to provide services. The solicitor concerned is unnamed but I have an idea as to his identity. He is telling people not to pay because the charge is not sound in law, which is tantamount to subversion. The Minister should clarify the legal implications for those who do not pay and who are being advised not to pay by irresponsible people within the community. The Minister, Deputy Hogan, should clarify the legalities of the household charge.