Harney defends decision on dual mandate ban

The Tanaiste has defended the Government's u-turn on the issue of banning members of the Oireachtas from holding local council seats.

The decision followed a threat by the four independent deputies who support the Government to withdraw their backing if the plan was pushed through.

Mary Harney said bills were frequently amended in the Dail and that the Local Government Bill was no exception.

Responding to questions from Green TD Trevor Sargent about the absence of Environment Minister Noel Dempsey, Deputy Harney said that the Minister is "very ill" at the moment and wished him a speedy recovery.