David Cullinane (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The figure in our proposal is 1,165, whereas the figure in the Bill is 949. To be helpful and constructive, we suggested a more appropriate figure in the case of each of the cities and counties. We are not criticising and opposing the Minister for the sake of it. We are trying to ensure there is adequate elected representation across the board. We want to make sure the issue of subsidiarity is taken on board. I am sure the Minister will agree that it is difficult to put one's name forward on a ballot paper seeking to be elected to represent one's city or county on a local authority. It is a demanding job. More demands than ever are now being made of local authority members. It is important that we have a sufficient number of local authority members across the State. If one examines any of the reports that compare the local government figures in this State to the equivalent figures in other states, including the OECD reports, one will find that we have the lowest number of councillors of any of the European countries. That problem will be exacerbated by the passing of this section of the Bill, which will see a significant reduction in the number of councillors.

That is one of the fundamental reasons I oppose the Minister's entire approach. He is reducing the number of councillors, but he is not giving local authorities any powers of substance. He is tinkering at the edges. He is making some minor changes here and there. He is providing for no new fundamental powers. This Bill does not devolve power from any Department to local government. It is not in the Bill because the Minister is not interested in it. He is interested in introducing minimalist piecemeal reform, saving money and reducing the number of councils and councillors. It is all about reducing numbers. It is not about reform at all. A big opportunity is being missed. The Minister had a big opportunity to reform local government properly, but he has not done so. I will oppose this section on the basis that I do not accept the figures proposed by the Minister as he tries to reduce the number of councillors. It is important that we take an all-island approach. We should be consistent across the island. We should have a sufficient number of elected representatives in this State and-----