David Cullinane (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I understand that, but I must say that in this debate, more than in any other Committee Stage debate in which I have participated, there has been an attempt by the Chair to confine debate, which is unhelpful. I do not believe it is possible to have a discussion on one charge in isolation from other charges or other issues. That does not make sense and has hampered our ability to have a constructive debate with the Minister of State on the issue.

I have made my general point and will finish by saying that ability to pay is only one element of this issue. What I would really like is for the Minister of State to address the core issue of why people are paying a property tax and water charges and why there is no ability to pay clause associated with either charge.

How is that fair or progressive?