Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Cummins's point is very well made. I will give it serious consideration with the Minister, Deputy O'Brien, as it is directly under his jurisdiction. I accept the pressure that is on local authorities and their staff due to the level 5 restrictions. The Senator's case has merit. We do not want people to suffer because of the restrictions that have been imposed. We will take a serious look at the issue. We are engaging with the local authorities. I welcome the Senator's suggestion on the re-profiling of the expenditure and his further input into the review. It is a good suggestion and we can look at it.