Fianna Fáil council pact falls flat on its face at the first hurdle – Rock

The flimsy house of cards agreement by Fianna Fáil, the Labour Party, the Social Democrats and the Green Party on Dublin City Council has completely collapsed at the first hurdle, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Noel Rock, a former city councillor, said, “Just three months ago, the ‘Dublin Agreement’ by these parties was left completely undermined, ironically, by their failure to agree how to approach local property tax. And so it has proved at Dublin City Council (DCC) last night.

“Having varying positions on local property tax rates – a major revenue stream for the council and one of the most important decisions city councillors make annually – has rendered the ‘Dublin Agreement’ commitments redundant. DCC are now left in a position where they can’t afford to what was agreed in June by these parties as they divvied up positions within the council.

“The ‘Dublin Agreement’ is ten pages long but nowhere is there a simple indication of how much any of the proposed measures will cost. Major funding is required for this wish list but when it comes to serious financial matters, FF, Labour, the Soc Dems and Greens couldn’t even agree a united position on property tax.

“Unfortunately, the people of Dublin city are in for a long five years waiting for the next local elections.

“What should be of more pressing concern is will the failed ‘Dublin Agreement’ be a template for a future coalition after the next General Election?

“Will Labour, Soc Dems and Greens agree a lavish spending programme with Fianna Fáil just so Micheál Martin’s supporters can get plush jobs?

“We all know reckless Fianna Fáil will promise everything to all to get back into power. Promising spending for all and delivery for none is second-nature to Fianna Fáil.

“In the first six months of 2019, Fianna Fáil demanded a shocking €4.35bn be spent across all sectors and all departments with no proposal on how to pay for it. Simply reckless. They have no plan, no solutions and no team.

“The best advice for voters and other political parties regarding Fianna Fáil promises is simple: Caveat emptor – Let the buyer beware,” Deputy Rock said.