David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

They have been offered a rates abatement, which is a very civilised step. I thank Carlow County Council for this but there is no suggestion the abatement will be continued next year. It places the individuals in a very vulnerable position. Particularly in a recession, with so many shops empty in small towns, it would be good to encourage the people in question, who are largely volunteers. I hope we will have circumstances in which charity shops run by volunteers will, as a matter of course, be subject to a rates abatement.

I wish the Cathaoirleach a happy birthday.