By Supporting Fine Gael . . . .

You are supporting people like me, who believe in the following values:-

• Building a fairer Ireland and a just society based on equality of opportunity;

• Encouraging and rewarding initiative, enterprise, innovation and self-reliance;

• Building a safe society by protecting citizens and enforcing the law;

• Promoting and upholding people’s rights and responsibilities;

• Acting in the public interest with honesty and integrity;

• Promoting a shared vision of a confident and sustainable Ireland;

• Building an Ireland of excellence and ambition.

I believe in a more just society. Despite our recent economic boom, Ireland has become a more unequal society:

• In the five years to 2002 the wealthiest 10% received 25% of the tax breaks, while the poorest 20% received only 5%.

• Only 14% of our GDP is spent on ‘social protection spending’ (i.e. pensions, social housing or services for people with disabilities etc). This is by far the lowest in the EU and only half the EU average.

I believe taxpayers have a right to expect value for money, however the last number of years have been characterised by administrative and financial mismanagement. And at the same time there is no accountability and responsibility. There are numerous examples:

• The Luas, Original Budget: €275m, Expected Outturn: €775m

• Beaumont Hospital Car park, A Project which cost the Exchequer €10m but which provides no extra car-spaces.

I believe that there needs to be significant Local Government Reform. There should be increased powers given to Local Authorities and access to funding separate from the Central Government Grant. Specifically:

• Local Authorities should be given an increased role in the areas of education, social services and policing;

• A fixed amount of all income tax should be paid to the local authorities;

• Stamp Duty on the sale of houses should be paid to Local Authorities

Local Priorities

• The continuing improvement in the provision of local amenities (playgrounds, parks, etc);

• Improved Customer Service from the Council

• Protection of Open Spaces

• Development of the County Economy, control of Council costs, service charges and commercial rates.