Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am glad Senator Craughwell has again raised the case of the unfair treatment of councillors. The mere fact that he has stood up here to speak means that people outside who have a jaundiced view of democracy will suggest that we are only doing it because we are electioneering. That is one of the reasons this debate has gone into a cul-de-sac over many years. It is important that the Minister come to the House for a proper debate on this matter.

Those of us who work on the ground understand full well the work of councillors and the responsibility that attaches to their work. There are many councillors who are now full-time at that job, and those who are not are finding it particularly difficult to give the same time to the work that they have given in the past. If we study the way they are treated, we must conclude that there is no other section of society who find themselves in that position. Therefore, we must ask ourselves why that has happened and why it is allowed to continue. I would say we are leaning over backwards to satisfy and pacify a very small section of the media who present a particular caricature of county councillors which is totally at variance with the reality on the ground. We should also remind ourselves that councillors are elected. Is it not particularly interesting that the voter turnout in local elections is the highest of any election at any time, well up into the 70s in percentage terms? That shows quite clearly that the community and the people on the ground want councillors, respect them and appreciate the work they are doing. Do we appreciate that work with legislation? Do we respond to what we know is wrong and look after the councillors in the manner to which they are entitled? I am glad the matter has been raised because there are some very cogent arguments. I am not asking that we make a decision here this morning to do A, B or C, but that we have a fair and open discussion on this. Let us put the facts on the table. Let us have the Minister present to justify or otherwise the position in which councillors find themselves at the moment. However, it is most unfair to let this continue in the manner in which it is continuing.