POLITICS: The Seanad can prove its relevance by scrapping the proposed bin charges next week says Donegal Sinn Féin Senator Pádraig Mac Lochlainn.
Speaking after the launch of a Sinn Féin Private Members Bill motion which aims to withdraw the statutory instrument that allows refuse collection companies to significantly increase bin charges in many locations after the 1st of July, the Donegal Senator said:
‘It’s time for Senators now to put up or shut up, particularly those from Fianna Fáil.
‘Alan Kelly introduced this instrument in the dying days of the last government and Sinn Féin want it withdrawn.
‘Fianna Fáil public representatives have expressed their concerns about these charges and we are asking them to put their money where their mouth is, stand with the people and support this motion next week.
‘These new charges will put serious pressure on households that simply can’t afford to pay any more. It would be particularly harsh on families, people with extra health needs and those living in more remote areas.
‘There is a lack of transparency, regulation and fairness in relation to the proposed new regime which must be stopped.
‘The government could step in and remove this statutory instrument, but if they don’t we are calling on all Senators to do the right thing and support our motion next week to assign these charges to the scrapheap, where they should be.’
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