Seanad debates

Tuesday, 26 January 2016

Local Government Review: Statements

 

2:30 pm

Photo of Michael MullinsMichael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Sherlock and I welcome that the Minister for the Environment, Deputy Alan Kelly, attended the House to commence the debate. In fairness, the Minister hit all the right notes in his speech. He recognised the very significant change in the role and workload of the councillors since 2014 local government reforms were put in place. I also welcome his reference to the operational review which he established in May 2015.

I come from a county that had three town councils. A total of 27 councillors have been taken out of the system as a result of the abolition of town councils. There has been a significant consequent increase in the workload of the county councillors with very increased representation, especially those who represent the towns of Ballinasloe, Tuam and Loughrea. I welcome the establishment of the local government advisory group and I compliment Senator Landy on his positive influence on the workings of that group.

The councillor has an increasingly responsible role in decision making that impacts significantly on all citizens. This must be reflected in the remuneration and conditions of employment of our councillors. The sum of €16,500 is a totally inadequate level of remuneration to reflect that workload. Many councillors are now full-time and trying to raise a family and pay the bills on that income. Those who are not full-time councillors have to take time off - if they can get it - with a subsequent loss of earnings from their other employment. The whole issue of PRSI and paying 4% in respect of class K was raised by me when I was a councillor but it never seemed to get a sympathetic ear from the relevant Minister. I hope that everything is on the table on this occasion when the advisory group comes to its conclusion and that the next Minister - be it Deputy Kelly or his successor - puts together a proper package for councillors who do such a wonderful job representing the citizens on the front-line of democracy.

Along with remuneration, back-up secretarial services and expenses for meal allowances should be revisited. The small-minded reductions were made by officials without the blessing of any particular Minister, so today is important. The AILG and LAMA want us all to work together on this matter. I am disappointed that there has been some discord on the issue.

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