Over the past few weeks, the atmosphere in West Limerick has been filled with discussions happening at the local boards regarding the topic of raising the salaries of the medical officers of the unions. The Newcastle West guardians have already approved an immediate increase of £10, along with a triennial (occurring every three years) increase of £10. Similarly, the Rathkeale guardians were considering a similar increase of £5.
While it is certainly appropriate to allocate funds for the improvement of the country or its people, it raises a different issue when it comes to increasing the salaries of individuals who are already well compensated. The medical profession, especially in rural areas, is often underpaid. Although there are valid arguments in favor of raising salaries, it’s important to consider the financial circumstances of ratepayers who have to foot the bill for these increases.
Of course, everyone appreciates salary increases, but it’s worth asking whether it’s prudent or fair to allocate funds to areas that might not urgently need them or might not yield significant benefits. Additionally, as the ability of ratepayers to pay these increased amounts decreases, it becomes even more crucial to ensure responsible allocation of funds. Perhaps the ratepayers in each division could form ratepayers’ associations to monitor the decisions of the guardians and hold them accountable, especially in cases where there are influential applicants seeking increases.
It’s natural that those seeking salary increases would cite factors like the rising cost of living. However, it’s important for the condition of the ratepayers themselves to be thoroughly considered in these discussions. As these discussions take place, the guardians must remember that the money being discussed belongs to the ratepayers and should not be spent recklessly.
In the end, it’s the hard-earned money of the ratepayers that is at stake, and it’s the duty of the representatives to ensure that these funds are used judiciously and for the greater good of the community.
LIMERICK ECHO – TUESDAY 13 FEBRUARY 1906
