Joe O'Reilly (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The lump sum gratuity always needs to be reviewed but it must stand also that it needs upward review.

I commend Senator Black on bringing forward the Private Members' legislation. The question of administrative assistance is an absolute necessity given the complex nature of local government and the multitude of committees and meetings at municipal level. I support the motion and the principle that we must radically improve the position of councillors. They are the fundamental block of democracy.