The country's local Government representatives work an average of a 32 hour week, according to a new report compiled for acting Environment Minister Alan Kelly.

The Sunday Independent reports councillors want access to office facilities, such as special software and secretaries to help them deal with the workload.

A review carried out by the Department of the Environment has found the abolition of 80 town councils across the country has significantly increased the level of work for councillors, but their annual salary of €16,500 has not increased.

Councillors would also like an rise in their travel expenses to help them deal with larger constituencies.