Imelda Henry (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is no secret that Sligo County Council has had financial difficulties for many years. Major investment in water and property and many other projects was made several years ago; some of these are losing substantial amounts of money. The downturn in the economy had a major effect on the finances of the council. Many businesses in Sligo are struggling and finding it difficult to pay their rates. It is not necessary to bring the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Deputy Alan Kelly, to the House today. He is meeting the CEO and the management of Sligo County Council and they will have a frank discussion as to how to move forward and what options are available. Also, the local councillors have a job to do in supporting the CEO and the management on whatever proposals are put forward. I look forward at a later stage to finding out the proposals. It is disappointing that we find ourselves in this situation, but it is no secret. As a former member of Sligo County Council, I know the council has had many difficulties down through the years. It has come to a stage at which we have to sort out the problem once and for all and move forward so that the people of Sligo do not suffer in respect of services.