Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have a lot to say. I have a lot of experience in this area. I would like to make my point, which might wake up people outside. We need to challenge local government in a public forum. This could be done via a public meeting on the National Oversight and Advisory Commission's annual report. We must praise the best but we must also show up the councils that are not doing their job. If we do not do this, they will be moribund and lack life and vibrancy. I want to see a vibrant and powerful local government.

If moving through National Oversight and Audit Commission is the way to go, I am happy to do that. I thank the Acting Chairman for his indulgence.