Now Ye're Talking - to a rural county councillor

1hnr79jr65 · 16-08-2018 7:51am

Whoa a political AMA, interesting stuff already, ill throw in my few cents.

You have mentioned earlier that Sinn Fein can actually be ok to work with, in your opinion do you think it is possible for a government to be formed with them?

Do you believe there is any hope of SF providing a decent level of committment and delivering on tangible change within the country, outside of the obvious drum beating for United Ireland?

How do you think Brexit will affect how counsellors will be able to do their work based on economic and social changes that will occur?

Do you or other party members have any belief that maybe we are better joining the UK in leaving EU, maybe even forming an economic union seperately with them?

Should we be spending money on the POPEs visit or do you think it should be funded purely by the church? Will we EVER see victims of church abuse get the payouts that are due to them?

Trump or no Trump, should we be entertaining this clown here?

Cake or Pie?

JJJJNR · 16-08-2018 8:13am

What due diligence is done and what checks are in place to ensure the people who need to be housed (single parents etc) are not gaming the system, and if they are gaming the system, what is being done to bring them to task.

Reputable Rog · 16-08-2018 8:39am

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

Well, if you took away HAP in the morning you'd probably treble the housing list.

Your second line is just typical of the bull**** commentary we see every day. There is literally no way to build houses any faster than it is being done. Why?

Well,

The biggest problem we actually face in house building is that the level and scale of builders and tradesmen we need are just not there. Presumably still abroad, driven there by reckless bad government over a 20 year period! So for the local authorities to employ builders to build houses would take just as long to do as it is currently taking councils to tender builds to contractors.

Secondly, planning, nimbyism, and people trying to game the system are big issues but sadly all we see on the news is the extreme cases.

I've seen it in two separate councils where houses were brought to council for consideration, councillors all in favour and then the neighbours, and voters realised where the houses were going and "Oh no, no social housing near me" and in both councils who were the first two parties back in to get the planned housing stopped..... Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein! You couldn't make it up!!!

They cry build houses and have no guts to face their electorate for the greater good!

I don't believe either that houses can be built any faster,speaking as someone who has an acutely understanding in the difficulties of home building, a lot deeper understanding I'd suggest than you have AMA.
However there does seem to be very little appetite from this government ti build social housing.
In the interim a big effort should be put into restoring the huge number of voids in the 3 largest urban areas Dublin, Cork and Limerick.

Wanderer78 · 16-08-2018 9:14am

I suspect many politicians struggle to understand the complex workings of our financial systems, in particular matters such money creation, it also disturbes me that governments have an over reliance on constructs such as 'the market', to provide us with all our societal needs, where do you stand on such matters? Thank you for taking part, I'd imagine your job is stressful enough

p15574 · 16-08-2018 9:18am

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

2. What would you think of a "list" system, ie where councillors take care of the parish pump stuff and TDs are elected on a solely national level?

I think that's a good idea and it's not dissimilar to how things are at the moment.

I'm not sure you understood what I meant about a list system - it would be completely and utterly different to what we have now. There would only be one constituency - the entire country, so no TDs pandering to local interests, they would just would in the national interest.

Drumpot · 16-08-2018 9:27am

Hi,

Thanks for doing the AMA.

I know somebody briefly touched on the question of corruption and I dont want to labour the question, but its something that I think comes up alot when people think of politics/politicians.

I know two people who have been councellors. Both confided in me that their was quite toxic and corrupt elements that they themselves saw first hand, particularly when it came to zoning land.

One of these people is trustworthy in the sense that they dont generally over play things and tell it from a "you wouldnt believe what goes on" sort of way. The other tells it from a "you have to play the game" sort of sense so they themselves possibly engaged in the kind of tactics that people associate with councellors.

I myself live in an estate built on a flood plain and we have had flooding issues. Residents went back through the records and saw that the Councellors at the time were advised clearly that this land was unsuitable for building for the very issues that have subsequently happened. The councellors dismissed the concerns of the (think it was OPW) actual people who knew what they were talking about, in favour of getting houses built.

The Council took years to address our problem and only actually got involved when our estate was flooded, on the news and on the front of national newspapers. Then it took 2-3 years to build the most ridiculous and impractical solution that has made the estate even more dangerous for children. Tottenham Hotspur built an entirely new football stadium quicker then it took the OPW to do the job in our estate.

Speakig with local engineers they confirmed that there were safer, better options for the estate but it looks like the council chose to "keep the problem in our estate". Sounds ok right ? But actually a major problem in our estate isnt water from our area, its from upstream and downstream in other peoples estate. So the value of our houses and the safety to children has be compromised by a council that chose to leave hundreds of familys stuck with a horrible looking 7 foot wall through the estate that is 5 feet high in parts and has a drop of over 30 feet. If a child falls in thats it. . But the council feels thats appropriate. a child has already been knocked over because of the blind spot created by the wall and the "not my job approach" has been taken, with nobody interested in taking responsibility for the issue. It will take another news story I believe or a tragedy before something will be done.

So why is this in anyway a questionable solution ? Because the "solution" in our estate that is supposedly helping up/down stream, has helped a builder right beside us and up stream. Miraculously a builder owned land right beside us for nearly a decade and didnt build until our "solution" was started. So you can see why residents in our estate have questions and its funny how there is nobody around or interested in answering. Nobody knows or sees anything so we have to just suck it up.

So, while you say there is no corruption, its hard to fathom why certain decisions are made and the motives behind them.

So after all that, I will ask do you think that there are decisions made from councellors that you would find questionable or suspect and what do you think could be done to have more cheques and balances to decisions made. Nobody has been held to account in anyway for the issues of my estate when it was made clear that it wasnt suitable for building.

AndrewJRenko · 16-08-2018 9:45am

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

Your second line is just typical of the bull**** commentary we see every day. There is literally no way to build houses any faster than it is being done. Why?

Do you think that perhaps in Michael Noonan hadn't watered down the Vacant Site levy that it might have helped to bring more housing on stream earlier, particularly in smaller sites, which wouldn't require huge resources to get built?

https://www.irishtimes.com/news/environment/noonan-casts-doubt-on-vacant-site-tax-1.1965096

Shefwedfan · 16-08-2018 9:56pm

What are your thought on property tax money been siphoned off to local councillors for a fund towards local projects. This is given as a "reward" for not reducing the property tax in their county.

At the same time you have a Finance officer from the County Council describing it as "catastrophic" to reduce the property tax.

1hnr79jr65 · 17-08-2018 8:42pm

Has the AMA participant given up ?

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 1:01am

Thoie wrote: »

Harping on about potholes a bit more.

1. How bored do you get of hearing about potholes?
2. Why are so many potholes so poorly repaired? I can pinpoint more than 20 in a short stretch that are big, and recurring. Every now and then, a lump of tar gets thrown into it, but the job isn't done properly, so the holes reform in the space of weeks. In a month, they're huge again, and have to be reported all over again.
3. When contractors for the utility companies dig up roads, afaik they pay a bond to the council to ensure the roads are put back in the original state (or better). That never seems to happen - there's always a ridiculous trench/dip, half arsed job done of filling them in. Do the contractors actually get their bond back, or do the councils keep it? If they keep it, why isn't it spent on putting the road back in a proper condition? Are contractors ever refused permission to dig, based on the state they've left previous roads?

And not pothole related:
4. How do you decide to "back" a presidential candidate? Do you have set criteria that you use, or is it just a vote at a meeting? If I (a complete unknown), jumped up and said I'd like your council's backing to run for president, what kind of things would you be looking for to help you decide to support me?

1. How bored do you get of hearing about potholes?

Not bored, but sometimes people seem to think that you put the potholes there, and it's your fault they exist. But happy to take calls or messages about them, just gets a bit annoying from time to time.

2. Why are so many potholes so poorly repaired? I can pinpoint more than 20 in a short stretch that are big, and recurring. Every now and then, a lump of tar gets thrown into it, but the job isn't done properly, so the holes reform in the space of weeks. In a month, they're huge again, and have to be reported all over again.

In my local authority we contract out all pothole filling and contractor squares off the hole and fills and seals. Rarely reoccur.

3. When contractors for the utility companies dig up roads, afaik they pay a bond to the council to ensure the roads are put back in the original state (or better). That never seems to happen - there's always a ridiculous trench/dip, half arsed job done of filling them in. Do the contractors actually get their bond back, or do the councils keep it? If they keep it, why isn't it spent on putting the road back in a proper condition? Are contractors ever refused permission to dig, based on the state they've left previous roads?

I don't think it's a bond as such... more so part of the job description, I think it would be better, even if more costly, if whole section of road was resurfaced and not jus the trench where the companies were working. I totally feel your pain, not only does it lead to trouble down the line it looks CAT.

And not pothole related:
4. How do you decide to "back" a presidential candidate? Do you have set criteria that you use, or is it just a vote at a meeting? If I (a complete unknown), jumped up and said I'd like your council's backing to run for president, what kind of things would you be looking for to help you decide to support me?

So, each councillor has a vote, each council can only nominate one candidate.

So there's a few things to consider:

For me I'd like someone with a good track record of public service. Not necessarily political either. After that I'd be willing to look at their campaign, their speeches, their interviews and I'd look for sincerity. I don't like cliches or sucking up!

Then within the council, politics plays a role... do you allow SF to have a free run at MDH, or do you allow FF nominate a candidate on behalf of your council by abstaining.

It could be a numbers game before you know it.

Please don't read that as belittling the office or not taking it seriously, this is the way it can play out.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 1:03am

p15574 wrote: »

I'm not sure you understood what I meant about a list system - it would be completely and utterly different to what we have now. There would only be one constituency - the entire country, so no TDs pandering to local interests, they would just would in the national interest.

Ah, my apologies, I'm sure that would be interesting. We are a small country, would it work?

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 1:03am

Sour Lemonz wrote: »

Has the AMA participant given up ?

Nope, Sorry, just an incredibly busy few days. Trying to catch up now.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 1:10am

Shefwedfan wrote: »

What are your thought on property tax money been siphoned off to local councillors for a fund towards local projects. This is given as a "reward" for not reducing the property tax in their county.

At the same time you have a Finance officer from the County Council describing it as "catastrophic" to reduce the property tax.

What are your thought on property tax money been siphoned off to local councillors for a fund towards local projects. This is given as a "reward" for not reducing the property tax in their county.

Well, if local projects are being funded, that can only be a good thing. Councillors are partly elected to help fund local projects so I see no issue with a local authority doing that in their budget as long as it's not to the detriment of other services. For example, securing LPT funds for local projects but reducing street cleaning or roads money etc, is not a good idea. But if council can commit to maintaining a good level of service and councillors all have projects they want/need done (assuming the local communities have given each councillor a mandate to get these things done) I see no issue.

My pet peeve about the LPT is that if you live in rural Ireland it's hard to justify what services you're getting for paying it.

At the same time you have a Finance officer from the County Council describing it as "catastrophic" to reduce the property tax.

A finance officer in a council would see any cut in revenue as catastrophic, and it is their job to think that way.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 1:11am

AndrewJRenko wrote: »

Do you think that perhaps in Michael Noonan hadn't watered down the Vacant Site levy that it might have helped to bring more housing on stream earlier, particularly in smaller sites, which wouldn't require huge resources to get built?

https://www.irishtimes.com/news/environment/noonan-casts-doubt-on-vacant-site-tax-1.1965096

Fair point, hard to argue against, I'm sure more strict levies may have made a difference.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 1:25am

Drumpot wrote: »

Hi,

Thanks for doing the AMA.

I know somebody briefly touched on the question of corruption and I dont want to labour the question, but its something that I think comes up alot when people think of politics/politicians.

I know two people who have been councellors. Both confided in me that their was quite toxic and corrupt elements that they themselves saw first hand, particularly when it came to zoning land.

One of these people is trustworthy in the sense that they dont generally over play things and tell it from a "you wouldnt believe what goes on" sort of way. The other tells it from a "you have to play the game" sort of sense so they themselves possibly engaged in the kind of tactics that people associate with councellors.

I myself live in an estate built on a flood plain and we have had flooding issues. Residents went back through the records and saw that the Councellors at the time were advised clearly that this land was unsuitable for building for the very issues that have subsequently happened. The councellors dismissed the concerns of the (think it was OPW) actual people who knew what they were talking about, in favour of getting houses built.

The Council took years to address our problem and only actually got involved when our estate was flooded, on the news and on the front of national newspapers. Then it took 2-3 years to build the most ridiculous and impractical solution that has made the estate even more dangerous for children. Tottenham Hotspur built an entirely new football stadium quicker then it took the OPW to do the job in our estate.

Speakig with local engineers they confirmed that there were safer, better options for the estate but it looks like the council chose to "keep the problem in our estate". Sounds ok right ? But actually a major problem in our estate isnt water from our area, its from upstream and downstream in other peoples estate. So the value of our houses and the safety to children has be compromised by a council that chose to leave hundreds of familys stuck with a horrible looking 7 foot wall through the estate that is 5 feet high in parts and has a drop of over 30 feet. If a child falls in thats it. . But the council feels thats appropriate. a child has already been knocked over because of the blind spot created by the wall and the "not my job approach" has been taken, with nobody interested in taking responsibility for the issue. It will take another news story I believe or a tragedy before something will be done.

So why is this in anyway a questionable solution ? Because the "solution" in our estate that is supposedly helping up/down stream, has helped a builder right beside us and up stream. Miraculously a builder owned land right beside us for nearly a decade and didnt build until our "solution" was started. So you can see why residents in our estate have questions and its funny how there is nobody around or interested in answering. Nobody knows or sees anything so we have to just suck it up.

So, while you say there is no corruption, its hard to fathom why certain decisions are made and the motives behind them.

So after all that, I will ask do you think that there are decisions made from councellors that you would find questionable or suspect and what do you think could be done to have more cheques and balances to decisions made. Nobody has been held to account in anyway for the issues of my estate when it was made clear that it wasnt suitable for building.

Wow, I feel like apologising on behalf of all councillors.

In the case you describe I would have thought there could be a legal route to go down. It appears to be total incompetence.

One way to stamp out potential messing with zoned land would be for zone suggestions to be put to public consultation.

I am sorry for such a short reply, your situation must be incredibly frustrating. I guess, theres a line between corruption and stupidity/incompetence....

I have seen councillors propose things around zoned land that made the mind boggle but not for any seeming personal gain.

I have seen developers with bad records approach councillors requesting re-zoning, councillors agreeing to it, debates happening and some being done and more not, but I couldn't say any of the rezoning was right or wrong... at least not yet.

I also think you and your neighbours should be exempted from LPT

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 1:32am

Collie D wrote: »

Poster up above asked about Presidential nominations. I'd also like to add to this question. Or maybe I'm just asking in a different way - apologies if so.

Presuming the council votes yes/no on individuals and majority rules?

How do you vote? Do you judge the person i.e. base your decision on whether you want to see them elected or do you think everyone who wants to should get a chance?

For example I believe a candidate known as Mr X is putting himself forward with the promise of banning all mosques and marching on Downing Street and demanding a United Ireland. This is a genuine candidate and not a hypothetical.

Would you:

A. Vote against him because he's obviously a headbanger and you don't want him in the Aras - I'm presuming you don't agree with him

B. Vote for his nomination so the people can decide for themselves

Thanks for the AMA by the way. Very interesting and refreshingly bull**** free.

I would save the people from candidate x to be honest. I've read his manifesto. Did you see his suggestion about the cyber dating and pornography tax? INTERESTING.

Candidate X had already gotten more coverage without actually doing anything significant and it could literally be some ex hack sitting in his boxers on a sofa at 2 in the afternoon laughing at the rest of us.

In answer to your question, I would request that the candidate be not even heard by the council and if a colleague proposed him I'd vote against as I think the council should be responsible and if they are potentially putting forward a candidate it should be someone fit for the position with ideas that are logical for a start lol

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 1:47am

Deleted User wrote: »

Very good AMA.

In terms of housing, how are the new type of development proposals perceived by rural councils such as converted shipping containers, log cabins, modular homes, co living, etc?

Do you feel these solutions could help ease what is a huge crisis?

Also how do you feel about the level of vacant and/or bank owned houses which are currently unoccupied while the prospect of ownership is pretty much out of reach for many young Irish people?

In terms of housing, how are the new type of development proposals perceived by rural councils such as converted shipping containers, log cabins, modular homes, co living, etc?

I think most cllrs would prefer "actual" houses. (please pardon the term) but there's a definite sense of "Anything but nothing" if that makes sense. Some of the modular or prefabricated houses are incredible quality, you'd hardly notice a difference, they are pretty god.

Do you feel these solutions could help ease what is a huge crisis?

These solutions will house people. But I have to say this, and please don't think it's some right wing FG nut job, I assure you I am not. But the huge crisis is being made out to be worse than it is, at least in my county it is. I get housing reps everyday and you would not believe the attitude and lack of understanding by some people. I would say that 40% of the people on the housing list in my county are there by choice and not by desperation. (Not that social housing is desperate, but the 40% are giving that impression, whilst updating their facebook with their second sun holiday of the year)

Also how do you feel about the level of vacant and/or bank owned houses which are currently unoccupied while the prospect of ownership is pretty much out of reach for many young Irish people?

I think there should be a National CPO scheme where the funds paid are used to finish off housing estates and the houses then sold to first time buyers. Problem with all of this is that too many bad developers would be bailed out of their responsibility.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 2:18am

Sour Lemonz wrote: »

Whoa a political AMA, interesting stuff already, ill throw in my few cents.

You have mentioned earlier that Sinn Fein can actually be ok to work with, in your opinion do you think it is possible for a government to be formed with them?

Do you believe there is any hope of SF providing a decent level of committment and delivering on tangible change within the country, outside of the obvious drum beating for United Ireland?

How do you think Brexit will affect how counsellors will be able to do their work based on economic and social changes that will occur?

Do you or other party members have any belief that maybe we are better joining the UK in leaving EU, maybe even forming an economic union seperately with them?

Should we be spending money on the POPEs visit or do you think it should be funded purely by the church? Will we EVER see victims of church abuse get the payouts that are due to them?

Trump or no Trump, should we be entertaining this clown here?

Cake or Pie?

In politics I always hear never say never, however, too many FG people I know would jump ship even at the mention. But could SF get to 30/40 TD's and end up supported by maybe Labour, Greens and IND's.... it's possible. But FG and SF will not happen.

Do you believe there is any hope of SF providing a decent level of committment and delivering on tangible change within the country, outside of the obvious drum beating for United Ireland?

SF want to provide all these wonderful budgetary suggestions, but they want to fund it by borrowing money. (That's the only way they can fund their fantasies) but we've been down that road before as a country and it didn't work out well. Although, at least the borrowing now would be based on a much mores sustainable tax base and sturdier economy. Let's also not forget, SF have some real internal problems!! Is it 37 elected members of the party have resigned to date since 2015? MAD

How do you think Brexit will affect how counsellors will be able to do their work based on economic and social changes that will occur?

Hard to know really isn't it? a lot of passport queries? A lot of issues for the border counties, until we see some kind of agreement does anybody know what the affects will be?

Do you or other party members have any belief that maybe we are better joining the UK in leaving EU, maybe even forming an economic union seperately with them?

No, we spent 700 years getting away from them we'd be worse hypocrites than them were we to leave the EU and try and do any kind of union with them. We already have a brilliant trading relationship AND we get the EU trading too.

Should we be spending money on the POPEs visit or do you think it should be funded purely by the church? Will we EVER see victims of church abuse get the payouts that are due to them?

I hope victims get their dues and I think it's a blight on every government we have ever had that a lot of these cases are not dealt with. I think the church should be paying for the vast majority of it. However, the state will benefit greatly from the revenue made during next week and so it's reasonable to think the state should fork out something but maybe not as much as we have.

Trump or no Trump, should we be entertaining this clown here?- No, he's a stain on humanity. I get the "respect for the office" argument but he doesn't respect the office and his supporters certainly don't. The man is a buffoon. It's terrifying how he got to where he is.

Cake or Pie?...... Can I have both?

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 18-08-2018 2:30am

JJJJNR wrote: »

What due diligence is done and what checks are in place to ensure the people who need to be housed (single parents etc) are not gaming the system, and if they are gaming the system, what is being done to bring them to task.

What due diligence is done and what checks are in place to ensure the people who need to be housed (single parents etc) are not gaming the system, and if they are gaming the system, what is being done to bring them to task.

Have you seen the housing application forms in any local authority?

The thickness of it alone would turn me off applying.

My point is, the checks are there the income proofs etc. but it's still very hard to really "Catch" someone gaming.

The most common one is where "single mother" applies for house. Two kids. He's after breaking up with her and doesn't pay towards the kids. She gets house and all of a sudden they're back together but he's not living there, just staying there 7 nights a week. Or some are so blatant, she applies, gets sorted and he just moves in and says nothing. So you'd say well why don't you report it, well because he'd just move out, for a while and then he'd be back.

If everyone obeyed the rules, especially politicians, we'd have no gamers at all.

Gloomtastic! · 18-08-2018 8:49am

I’ve got to say this AMA is very refreshing with the OP saying exactly what they think instead of what is politically correct. Maybe we should make all politicians anonymous!

Well done OP, don’t let the bastards get you down!

AndrewJRenko · 18-08-2018 11:59am

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

The most common one is where "single mother" applies for house. Two kids. He's after breaking up with her and doesn't pay towards the kids. She gets house and all of a sudden they're back together but he's not living there, just staying there 7 nights a week. Or some are so blatant, she applies, gets sorted and he just moves in and says nothing. So you'd say well why don't you report it, well because he'd just move out, for a while and then he'd be back.

Far be it from me to show some support for FF, but did Seamus Brennan ever get to implement his fairly sensible idea of not penalising people for living together? Why would we want to incentivise instability?

https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/ff-plan-to-help-single-parents-out-of-welfare-trap-26277036.html

1hnr79jr65 · 18-08-2018 10:01pm

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

*Answers*
Cake or Pie?...... Can I have both?

Cheers for the responses, i like the idea of a mixed cake pie :cool:

On LEO - My own view is he is fiercly overrated in ability and skill for the position in office he holds, he has been lacking in every position he has held and even most recently with the disaster around the smear test and false promises to folks like Vicky Phelan.

Assuming that no one in FG know you personally for doing this AMA, would you say given Varadker's current performance that he is competent?

Who would you believe would be a better leader (assumiung none of the old guard were picked especially Noonan)?

If you were to defect to another party would it most likely be FF, if not then independant or who else?

Toto Wolfcastle · 18-08-2018 10:23pm

I think my very important question was missed.

Toto Wolfcastle wrote: »

Seems like a pretty thankless job to me. Are there perks? Do you get free Ed Sheeran tickets or an extra scoop of chips in the chipper?

Bredabe · 19-08-2018 1:42pm

What kind of training do canvassers and candidates get?
Last locals, I could not believe some of the behaviour/attitudes on display from both canvassers and candidates.

Lawlesz · 20-08-2018 4:51pm

Hi, thanks for doing this AMA, very interesting and I'm sure you're busy enough as it is.

I had 2 questions, kind of. I was wondering what your thoughts are on TDs salaries, especially in comparison to the average household income. No doubt it is a demanding job, and everyone feels they're entitled to your time. But do you feel that a newly elected TD is deserving of the 87,000 salary, plus whatever other extras they get in expenses or ministerial posts? Genuinely interested in your answer here, please don't take it as a leading question. I just wonder how in touch they can be with the plight of a struggling family when their own salary allows them to live in relative comfort.

It's something that really hit me after seeing one of the prime time episodes on the waiting lists for sick kids that was broadcast a few years back, and it made me wonder how a minister for health can justify earning the guts of 100k while kids are confined to beds because they can't get the treatment they need. If I was in charge at the top of that chain of command I would definitely have feelings of guilt and doubts about my suitability for the job.

My second question is kind of related. I worked for an old farmer on school holidays and one time asked if he was voting in an upcoming election. He said he never voted because he refused to believe that any politician wasn't in it for themselves. It reminds me of the old Billy Connolly line about how a desire to be a politician should automatically exclude you from being one.

I wouldn't be quite as cynical and think most, if not all, get involved in politics for the right reasons but how easy do you think it is to get corrupted by the money. I would have thought there's many a politician who put themselves out there for the right reasons, but once elected becomes part of the establishment and plays it safe and their main focus is on keeping the seat (and salary). How common would that be in your opinion?

Thanks again, really enjoying this thread

AndrewJRenko · 20-08-2018 9:33pm

Lawlesz wrote: »

My second question is kind of related. I worked for an old farmer on school holidays and one time asked if he was voting in an upcoming election. He said he never voted because he refused to believe that any politician wasn't in it for themselves. It reminds me of the old Billy Connolly line about how a desire to be a politician should automatically exclude you from being one.

That's just a cop out by your old farmer. Even if they all have a corrupt motivation, by not voting, you're still letting your neighbours choose which of the corruptly motivated politicians get power.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 20-08-2018 9:36pm

Sour Lemonz wrote: »

Cheers for the responses, i like the idea of a mixed cake pie :cool:

On LEO - My own view is he is fiercly overrated in ability and skill for the position in office he holds, he has been lacking in every position he has held and even most recently with the disaster around the smear test and false promises to folks like Vicky Phelan.

Assuming that no one in FG know you personally for doing this AMA, would you say given Varadker's current performance that he is competent?

Who would you believe would be a better leader (assumiung none of the old guard were picked especially Noonan)?

If you were to defect to another party would it most likely be FF, if not then independant or who else?

You're welcome.

In relation to Leo being overrated, please tell me what you expect from a Taoiseach/Minister?

Perhaps by the measures that you set out, many of the politicians in this country are overrated but I think it's a lazy, too easy comment to throw out.

In terms of Fine Gael, have we ever been higher in the polls? (I hate polls, they are a pain in the backside but just to make a point) and this is largely down to Leo. He's clearly rated by some?

My overall point is, it's wrong to expect the country to be a different place on the strength of one man in just two years. The same man hardly had any longer in any of his ministries.

You'll have to enlighten me on what false promises were made on the smear tests? It's hardly Leo's fault if mediation/mitigation broke down or didn't work? The Taoiseach, while a powerful individual, can not do everything.

Leo is absolutely competent, history will be the ultimate judge, but show me a different party leader in Ireland right now that is more competent, and if you say Mary Lou I'll eat my own keyboard.

Donohoe, Murphy, Bruton (although old) Harris, all capable of being a leader but at the moment couldn't see them out performing Leo.

You need to understand, the most local FF organisation to me, save for one councillor are the worst description of people imaginable, I would never jump ship to FF. I don't think I would ever join another party, ever.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 20-08-2018 9:41pm

Toto Wolfcastle wrote: »

I think my very important question was missed.

Interestingly, I was getting a haircut the other day and there was at least 5 young fellas ahead of me and the barber called me ahead of them! I was delighted.

Sometimes the chairmen/mayor will get invited to some of the big events but other than that there aren't really that many perks.

If I think of one I'll come back to you

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 20-08-2018 9:49pm

Bredabe wrote: »

What kind of training do canvassers and candidates get?
Last locals, I could not believe some of the behaviour/attitudes on display from both canvassers and candidates.

Ah my friend! You ask a brilliant question.

In my experience canvassers do not get any formal training as such. First you go along a few times as a kind of leaflet holder and morale support, listen to the conversations, issues etc. and eventually you graduate to have them yourself. (It's very repetitive)

When I first ran we got a one day course in canvasing/social media etc but it wasn't overly detailed.

Would love to hear some of your examples?

mikemac2 · 20-08-2018 9:54pm

A huge issue it seems for councilllors is they get passed over for running for TD.

You “serve your time”, work hard doing donkey work for years and the relation of the retiring TD gets the nod. I’m thinking of when Michael Smith retired in the old Tipp North and or recently a long time FF chap in Dublin West got bumped by a 26 year old Jack Chambers

Ever see fellow councilors lose the head and go mad over this? Might happen to you one day.

Hope not but you never know

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 20-08-2018 10:17pm

Lawlesz wrote: »

Hi, thanks for doing this AMA, very interesting and I'm sure you're busy enough as it is.

I had 2 questions, kind of. I was wondering what your thoughts are on TDs salaries, especially in comparison to the average household income. No doubt it is a demanding job, and everyone feels they're entitled to your time. But do you feel that a newly elected TD is deserving of the 87,000 salary, plus whatever other extras they get in expenses or ministerial posts? Genuinely interested in your answer here, please don't take it as a leading question. I just wonder how in touch they can be with the plight of a struggling family when their own salary allows them to live in relative comfort.

It's something that really hit me after seeing one of the prime time episodes on the waiting lists for sick kids that was broadcast a few years back, and it made me wonder how a minister for health can justify earning the guts of 100k while kids are confined to beds because they can't get the treatment they need. If I was in charge at the top of that chain of command I would definitely have feelings of guilt and doubts about my suitability for the job.

My second question is kind of related. I worked for an old farmer on school holidays and one time asked if he was voting in an upcoming election. He said he never voted because he refused to believe that any politician wasn't in it for themselves. It reminds me of the old Billy Connolly line about how a desire to be a politician should automatically exclude you from being one.

I wouldn't be quite as cynical and think most, if not all, get involved in politics for the right reasons but how easy do you think it is to get corrupted by the money. I would have thought there's many a politician who put themselves out there for the right reasons, but once elected becomes part of the establishment and plays it safe and their main focus is on keeping the seat (and salary). How common would that be in your opinion?

Thanks again, really enjoying this thread

TD's Salaries

It's a question we get asked all the time and just to make you aware, a TD's salary is 93,000 before expenses or committees are taken into consideration. I know a lot of TD's. Some are absolutely earning their salaries, and some are not. Remember every TD employs at least one other person if not two or three and although this is not funded out of their salaries it's just something to consider. Remember, I'm a rural Cllr, the TD's I'm closest to all had mortgages, childcare, cars to run, before they were elected, in fact many TD's run their campaigns on the basic platform that "They're one of us" so to say this line of can they really understand the plight of struggling families... yes of course they can.

I remember a former TD's young son, (aged around 8) at the time saying he didn't want his dad to retain his seat, cause at least then he'd see him more often. I don't mean that to sound like an X-Factor sob story, but people completely underestimate the workload and the time consumption of the role of a TD. In saying all of that, it's pretty hard to watch TD's get paid that amount of money and yet councillors get less than a quarter of that so I'd have no issue in a TD's salary being decreased if it meant redressing the balance. Now, the real joke shop is the salary of a senator. They should not be paid nearly 70k. No way. And I'm sure an AMA senator would make their case for their salary, but the facts are simply this, they get none of the hassle, they get all the Perks, and some of them are oxygen thieves.

Corrupted by the money...

Well, you have to remember, there are more reasons than that, to want to keep your seat as a priority.

I almost packed in the council in 2016, I was in a very bad place and only for my colleagues rallying around me I would have quit. Well that, and I felt an unbelievable responsibility to serve the people that elected me. I honestly felt there was nobody willing to replace me....were there people good enough to replace me, yes, capable, yes, but nobody willing and I had a duty to do the job they put me in. I think TD's have a similar outlook, they've been given a seat by the people and they are willing to play it safe at times "to keep their seat" because they are still the best person for the job. That might be an egotistical way to look at it, but I'm sure it's genuine. Will TD's vote a certain way (On water, abortion, pylons etc) to save their seat? Yes, but is that being corrupted by the money? I am not so sure. Remember they have families to support too, and don't always have the skills or qualifications to go into business etc. I know many of them are teachers on career breaks, and could go back to that, but if you had the job security of a teacher, why in gods name would you want to surrender yourself to be at the beck and call of the general public?

I can tell you with certainly, the money might seem like the best perk, it might seem like it's all anybody really wants, but you're literally giving your day to day life to people. I hope that's not a cliche but if you got into politics for the money, you wouldn't last a wet week, not a hope.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 20-08-2018 10:26pm

mikemac2 wrote: »

A huge issue it seems for councilllors is they get passed over for running for TD.

You “serve your time”, work hard doing donkey work for years and the relation of the retiring TD gets the nod. I’m thinking of when Michael Smith retired in the old Tipp North and or recently a long time FF chap in Dublin West got bumped by a 26 year old Jack Chambers

Ever see fellow councilors lose the head and go mad over this? Might happen to you one day. Hope not but you never know

Very interesting question!

Yes I've seen this happen, but political parties are machines. The politicians care about the people, but the number crunchers in the parties want bums on seats. It wouldn't matter if it was homer Simpsons Lighting Rod thing that ran for election, if they were thought to have the best chance, they'd run that person.

Anybody that really wanted to run for TD in a political party would do the following;

1. Build the local branch membership up in time (most parties have a two year membership voting rule)
2. Have your numbers ready for convention.
3. Be unbeatable.

That would get you on the ticket and then what would happen?

Well, the former TD Mr. Ballymagash, well his grandson who was the local GAA secretary and a minister for the eucharist in the parish would be added to the ticket and you have no idea how much Irish people love a political dynasty!

You see councillors all the time who have the ambition, but some of them need to be realistic and know that while they are good workers, the public like the look, sound, feel of someone else.

The party machine OFTEN gets it wrong and gender quotas messed up a lot of people, but politics is a nasty business and a lot of the time your own are worse than the opposition!

1hnr79jr65 · 21-08-2018 8:04am

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

You're welcome.

In relation to Leo being overrated, please tell me what you expect from a Taoiseach/Minister?

Perhaps by the measures that you set out, many of the politicians in this country are overrated but I think it's a lazy, too easy comment to throw out.

In terms of Fine Gael, have we ever been higher in the polls? (I hate polls, they are a pain in the backside but just to make a point) and this is largely down to Leo. He's clearly rated by some?

My overall point is, it's wrong to expect the country to be a different place on the strength of one man in just two years. The same man hardly had any longer in any of his ministries.

You'll have to enlighten me on what false promises were made on the smear tests? It's hardly Leo's fault if mediation/mitigation broke down or didn't work? The Taoiseach, while a powerful individual, can not do everything.

Leo is absolutely competent, history will be the ultimate judge, but show me a different party leader in Ireland right now that is more competent, and if you say Mary Lou I'll eat my own keyboard.

Donohoe, Murphy, Bruton (although old) Harris, all capable of being a leader but at the moment couldn't see them out performing Leo.

You need to understand, the most local FF organisation to me, save for one councillor are the worst description of people imaginable, I would never jump ship to FF. I don't think I would ever join another party, ever.

At a minimum i would expect a pure honesty, that seems to be like a non existant skill for most politicians. We get flaunted unrealistic expectations, blame at every corner against everyone else, with lack of taking responsibility.

I would rather a minister/leader say that there are major problems from X, Y, Z instead of blaming a person or group. I believe that most of the country while they may not like the answer recieved would appreciate it more as it would be easier to digest. Political answers should be reserved for other politicans or heads of state, not for the general public.

Leo promised Vicky Phelan that no one caught up in the smear issue would end up in court and would be resolved through mediation, now he is stating that some might have to go to court, again this goes back to realistic expectations and making cheques verbally that he can't cash. While i accept he can't do everything, he should then say that he may not have a remit or ability to help but would do all he could (then actually deliver on helping). Again this might not be an answer folks want to see but would be realistic.

As a citizen, i don't believe Leo is competent in any aspect of roles hes carried out. However he is not the only one who seems to be having this difficulty, there are alot of people in roles for which they have no element of expereince in prior to having the role. Its like having a football team made up of sanitation crew and builders, you put them into vital positions believing they can contribute effectively but in the end as they have no training or experience, they will ultimately fail. They also lack in hte ability ot make the hard calls, such as higher tax for higher earners, taking proper action against tax dodgers such as Bono and his ilk.

As for who is a competent leader, i dont think any of the current political leaders are the right person. From FG, Charlie Flanagan or Simon Covney might be worth investing as a leader. For Fianna Failure, i have no time for dynasty families such as the Haughey's or Cowen's, Brian Cowen put this country on its knees and hung even his closest allies so ive no doubt that Barry can live up to his brothers reputation. Micky Martin is bout as much use as a sunroof on a submarine, the only semi reasonable member of that party from my view is Stephen Donnelly.

I think maybe its time for a truely new direction party and not a bunch of clowns in Renua, as the others are non existant and seems the majority power lies with independants now.

Anyhow, cheers for your inputs.

Collie D · 21-08-2018 8:15am

Collie D wrote: »

Sorry, few more questions...

1. Have you ever witnessed or been involved in any "**** you, Deputy Stagg" type scenarios at council meetings? Are you able to give details? Obviously not looking for specifics which may identify you or your council.

2. Is your council twinned with any foreign councils? Have you been on any junkets? If so, how was it? Boring meetings and tours of French cheese makers while staying at an Ibis or a few days of fine eating and drinking in fancy hotels?

3. Do you get on with your fellow councillors outside of party politics?

4. Ever lost or been threatened with removal of the party whip? Or abstained or voted against the party line due to personal choice?

5. Are you an actual Boards user or were you approached to sign up specifically for this AMA?

Thanks again.

Hi
Just wondering if you missed these. If you don't want to answer, no worries.

Thanks again

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 21-08-2018 10:55am

Collie D wrote: »

Hi
Just wondering if you missed these. If you don't want to answer, no worries.

Thanks again

Hi Collie D,

I can only apologise, I did see this, thought I had replied. If I did, I hope my answer today is same as last time lol!!!

So,

1. F U Deputy Stagg:

I've never used foul language in the council chamber but I have said "unparliamentary" terms that caused a bit of uproar, but nothing really major.

2. Junketts/Twinning

Yes, like most councils we have various Twinings in the county. I've seen plenty of them come over here but I haven't been over there, and every year the Chair is invited to NYC for Patrick's Day. I was in NYC once. I certainly wouldn't call it boring but it wasn't free time or a holiday. It was lots of networking and making connections. A few pints for sure, but for the most part its brunches, lunches, meetings, speeches and of course Mass!. Would you call it work? No, to be fair I wouldn't, but it was certainly worthwhile and one of the few perks of the job. Oh and just to be clear, my flights and accommodation were paid for but if you bring a partner you have to pay for them yourself.

3. Fellow Councillors

Yes, there are a few I avoid because they are just terrible people but in general you could have a genuine conversation with most of them.

4. Haven't lost the whip, yet, lol. I have never abstained on any vote. Have once or twice expressed contrary views to my party colleagues, particularly on matters of conscience etc. but at council level, the "national" conversations and our votes on them don't usually make a difference. (e.g councils voting on Irish water notices of motion or Abortion etc.) They might be useful to show the public whether or not their councillor is "In touch" with the people. But usually it's parties trying to score points.

5. Hmmmm I did not have a log in before this AMA but I am a regular user of Boards for information on various things from help with buying a car or cooking a meal or literally anything. If a conversation has been had, it's probably been had on here!!

Sorry for delay in answering!

5.

Nokia6230i · 21-08-2018 10:56am

Collie D wrote: »

Hi
Just wondering if you missed these. If you don't want to answer, no worries.

Thanks again

While we await the OPs return Collie D do you mind me partially taking on No.2 regarding my own local town & council?

My local council is twinned with.........DOLE!

Make up your own jokes like the Cllrs. getting their photograph taken.....for the PSC.

They also sign their names......on signing on day down the local Intreo office....

(The Dole I'm referring to is in France; we're also twinned with Tempe in Texas and have had a delegation over this Summer I think of both boys and girls, men and women if I recall)

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 21-08-2018 11:02am

Sour Lemonz wrote: »

At a minimum i would expect a pure honesty, that seems to be like a non existant skill for most politicians. We get flaunted unrealistic expectations, blame at every corner against everyone else, with lack of taking responsibility.

I would rather a minister/leader say that there are major problems from X, Y, Z instead of blaming a person or group. I believe that most of the country while they may not like the answer recieved would appreciate it more as it would be easier to digest. Political answers should be reserved for other politicans or heads of state, not for the general public.

Leo promised Vicky Phelan that no one caught up in the smear issue would end up in court and would be resolved through mediation, now he is stating that some might have to go to court, again this goes back to realistic expectations and making cheques verbally that he can't cash. While i accept he can't do everything, he should then say that he may not have a remit or ability to help but would do all he could (then actually deliver on helping). Again this might not be an answer folks want to see but would be realistic.

As a citizen, i don't believe Leo is competent in any aspect of roles hes carried out. However he is not the only one who seems to be having this difficulty, there are alot of people in roles for which they have no element of expereince in prior to having the role. Its like having a football team made up of sanitation crew and builders, you put them into vital positions believing they can contribute effectively but in the end as they have no training or experience, they will ultimately fail. They also lack in hte ability ot make the hard calls, such as higher tax for higher earners, taking proper action against tax dodgers such as Bono and his ilk.

As for who is a competent leader, i dont think any of the current political leaders are the right person. From FG, Charlie Flanagan or Simon Covney might be worth investing as a leader. For Fianna Failure, i have no time for dynasty families such as the Haughey's or Cowen's, Brian Cowen put this country on its knees and hung even his closest allies so ive no doubt that Barry can live up to his brothers reputation. Micky Martin is bout as much use as a sunroof on a submarine, the only semi reasonable member of that party from my view is Stephen Donnelly.

I think maybe its time for a truely new direction party and not a bunch of clowns in Renua, as the others are non existant and seems the majority power lies with independants now.

Anyhow, cheers for your inputs.

Point taken on the Vicky Phelan case, I guess you just expect mediation to work.

Would actually agree with a new party, it would be refreshing. Unfortunately, I can see a lot of new parties falling the same way as Renua. Not because they'd have same stance, but the cynicism we have in Ireland, it makes it very hard. It's also very expensive and it's very hard to get a large number of people to all agree a whole manifesto of items! I guess the parties that currently exist, probably represent most of the different political perspectives, so where's the niche?

Nokia6230i · 21-08-2018 11:29am

As an aside I hope some reading this will attend their local councils meetings going forward if they already haven't done so?

The monthly or special meetings can be fascinating and eye opening in terms of negotiations, jostling for speaking time etc.

All you need's a ticket with your name on it left behind reception for you by a Cllr.; now there is certain decorum like you can't, unless a vote is passed, record using audio-visual equipment but you can take and make written notes like I do/did at a recent but also past meeting.

But, and I say this having attended a council meeting on Presidential nominees recently; we'd 4 candidates to give a fair hearing too.

You know the way you often wonder why certain people come to school because that's where the bus stops?

Well, without naming the Cllrs. but I will say 1 was SF and approached each of the candidates on basis of if they would've they signed the Water and Eviction Bills as President; the national media were in town and while the local media're probably used to the circus I felt this embarrassed our county in general and our electorate; the behaviour and level of some Cllrs. left a lot to be desired.

One FF Cllr. line of questioning for all 4 was who'd you vote for in 2011; this f****r is 35 years a Cllr. and this was the height of his level of questioning like? Stealing a living he is.

Another FF Cllr. asked one of the candidates about cost of presidential accommodation and trotted out some fictitious pregnant girl or lady; nobody in the room had a clue what he was on about or where he was going with his point; come to think of it I don't think he did either!!!

But he was going to ask his question no matter what the relevance or context; sure the 4th Estate were in town and he wanted his name in lights....

Same Cllr. asked one candidate would they be bringing back or saying the Christmas Prayer as previous incumbents haven't done so; again there was a lot of raised eyebrows at that one; I can't recall such a thing under current MDH or the 2 Marys; it'd be the equivalent of our Queens Message on Christmas Eve on the BBC or Channel 4 I guess?

My notes indicate the candidate didn't give him the answer he wanted; they said they respected all faiths and none.

Same FF Cllr. also asked another candidate were we ready for a coloured (yes, he used that actual word........) President; jaws dropped all round.

I walked out of the meeting thinking some Cllrs. must've won their seat in a raffle..............

Bredabe · 21-08-2018 12:28pm

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

Ah my friend! You ask a brilliant question.

In my experience canvassers do not get any formal training as such. First you go along a few times as a kind of leaflet holder and morale support, listen to the conversations, issues etc. and eventually you graduate to have them yourself. (It's very repetitive)

When I first ran we got a one day course in canvasing/social media etc but it wasn't overly detailed.

Would love to hear some of your examples?

Happy too, if I can PM them?

Gloomtastic! · 22-08-2018 5:30am

Do you despair of the Irish people when it comes to their voting habits at the ballot box? (With the exception of the people who voted for you of course! :rolleyes:)

Why do you think political dynasties still thrive in Ireland today?

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 22-08-2018 10:55am

Gloomtastic! wrote: »

Do you despair of the Irish people when it comes to their voting habits at the ballot box? (With the exception of the people who voted for you of course! :rolleyes:)

Why do you think political dynasties still thrive in Ireland today?

Sometimes over a few pints with friends the conversation will turn to "Some people shouldn't have a vote" "You should need a license to have social media" etc. etc.

Obviously democracy hinges on every person having their say whether that's informed or not.

And I think that's what I despair at. The level of non-engagement, the spread of things that just aren't true.

For example, this morning on FB I spotted a poster where it lists off that there is "No money for homeless, HSE" etc but that 'there's 30 odd million being spent on Popes visit'. Now if you''re not into the Pope or his church, fine, but there are literally thousands of arguments to spew against the church and their years of neglect and cover ups of the abuse of children.

The government is spending over 1 Billion on housing, there was millions spent last year trying to get rough sleepers off the streets and into some kind of roof over their head.

Those posters are frustrating, they are one click away from being seen and sadly believed by thousands of people. These people have a vote and they use that kind of nonsense when making their decision.

Thats more so a social media rant than anything.

I'll tell you what else I despair at.

Funeral going politicians, and the people who see this as the role of a politician. IT IS NOT.

A constituent once genuinely asked me what was the rate of pay for going to funerals. I swear to god. They genuinely believed there was a funeral payment for councillors and point blank refused to accept the fact that there obviously isn't. In fact they responded with, "Well you might not be getting it, but some of them are!"

I despair at many things in relation to behaviour at the ballot box.

Political dynasties thrive in Ireland today because despite our many positive changes like marriage equality, 8th, etc we are still a country that is largely conservative on many issues. We like familiarity. We don't want too much change. (Hence why FG and FF have had power since the 20's)

But the other huge part is that so many young people will ask mam or dad "Who will I vote for" and they get the answer "Well Johnnie Big Bollix got us our planning back in 1981 and his son is running now, so we'll stick with him"

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 22-08-2018 5:29pm

Nokia6230i wrote: »

As an aside I hope some reading this will attend their local councils meetings going forward if they already haven't done so?

The monthly or special meetings can be fascinating and eye opening in terms of negotiations, jostling for speaking time etc.

All you need's a ticket with your name on it left behind reception for you by a Cllr.; now there is certain decorum like you can't, unless a vote is passed, record using audio-visual equipment but you can take and make written notes like I do/did at a recent but also past meeting.

But, and I say this having attended a council meeting on Presidential nominees recently; we'd 4 candidates to give a fair hearing too.

You know the way you often wonder why certain people come to school because that's where the bus stops?

Well, without naming the Cllrs. but I will say 1 was SF and approached each of the candidates on basis of if they would've they signed the Water and Eviction Bills as President; the national media were in town and while the local media're probably used to the circus I felt this embarrassed our county in general and our electorate; the behaviour and level of some Cllrs. left a lot to be desired.

One FF Cllr. line of questioning for all 4 was who'd you vote for in 2011; this f****r is 35 years a Cllr. and this was the height of his level of questioning like? Stealing a living he is.

Another FF Cllr. asked one of the candidates about cost of presidential accommodation and trotted out some fictitious pregnant girl or lady; nobody in the room had a clue what he was on about or where he was going with his point; come to think of it I don't think he did either!!!

But he was going to ask his question no matter what the relevance or context; sure the 4th Estate were in town and he wanted his name in lights....

Same Cllr. asked one candidate would they be bringing back or saying the Christmas Prayer as previous incumbents haven't done so; again there was a lot of raised eyebrows at that one; I can't recall such a thing under current MDH or the 2 Marys; it'd be the equivalent of our Queens Message on Christmas Eve on the BBC or Channel 4 I guess?

My notes indicate the candidate didn't give him the answer he wanted; they said they respected all faiths and none.

Same FF Cllr. also asked another candidate were we ready for a coloured (yes, he used that actual word........) President; jaws dropped all round.

I walked out of the meeting thinking some Cllrs. must've won their seat in a raffle..............

Yikes

funkey_monkey · 22-08-2018 10:16pm

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

"Well Johnnie Big Bollix got us our planning back in 1981 and his son is running now, so we'll stick with him"

Jesus! Do you know Johnnie Big Bollix too?

Shefwedfan · 22-08-2018 10:24pm

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA wrote: »

Yikes

Why would you reply to that post?

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 23-08-2018 5:18pm

Shefwedfan wrote: »

Why would you reply to that post?

Trying to acknowledge all posts, same as replying to this one.

I'm a rural county councillor, AMA · 23-08-2018 5:28pm

Nokia6230i wrote: »

While we await the OPs return Collie D do you mind me partially taking on No.2 regarding my own local town & council?

My local council is twinned with.........DOLE!

Make up your own jokes like the Cllrs. getting their photograph taken.....for the PSC.

They also sign their names......on signing on day down the local Intreo office....

(The Dole I'm referring to is in France; we're also twinned with Tempe in Texas and have had a delegation over this Summer I think of both boys and girls, men and women if I recall)

There's definitely a headline writer in you Nokia6230i

Shefwedfan · 23-08-2018 6:02pm

Shefwedfan wrote: »

Why would you reply to that post?

I suppose you have to

To ask a question. Do you not find it funny all these "stories" that coming out in last 2-3 years which also point to the 2 major parties as doing XYZ which is completely unbeliveable......but lucky some Sine Fein or People before Profit person is in the room trying to rescue it for the good people of Ireland

Irish people seem to fall completly for this c**p.

Are you aware or your other councillors of this constant bombardment on all forum of BS from Sinn Fein and their sorts?

Boards.ie: Niamh · 11-09-2018 2:53pm

Thanks for all of the participation in this everyone, especially our guest. It sure was a refreshing view from a county councillor!

Since there have been no posts for a while, I'll close this up.

Thanks all!

Now Ye're Talking - to a rural county councillor

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