Local authority constituency boundaries
Senator Leyden raises concerns about proposed reductions and redistributions in local authority seats, particularly in Roscommon and other affected counties; the Chair notes that a debate is planned.
Today is a significant day for our colleagues in county councils throughout the country. At 5 p.m. an announcement will be made on the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government website regarding new constituencies. Many of our colleagues will be in great difficulty, given the reduction in the number of seats in Roscommon from 26 to 18. Leitrim and other counties will also be affected. The number of seats has increased in the eastern area. The demolition of cities like Waterford, Kilkenny and Limerick is a retrograde step. I wish them well in the redrawing of constituency boundaries.
I commend the Leader and Senator van Turnhout on calling for an immediate debate on the RTE "Prime Time" programme on 28 May on the specific crèches which were investigated, namely, Giraffe in Belarmine, Links in Abington and Little Harvard in Rathnew. RTE has done the State great service. It has been more effective in the investigation of these crèches than the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs.
