David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Will the Leader give me any information about the Government's attitude towards credit unions? Credit unions are an immensely positive feature of Irish life. They are volunteer-led, community-based and not for profit. They are not like the banks. They did not behave in the disgraceful way that the banks behaved during the financial crisis. On this basis, I ask why the industry funding levy on credit unions has been increased from €1.5 million to €7.8 million. That is a fivefold increase. Was the Credit Union Advisory Committee consulted? It is a statutory body established to advise the Government on this issue.I do not believe for a minute that this group would have given such advice to the Government. The levy increase is an unfair tax on social capital and is a levy on volunteers so it really should be rethought at this point.