Barry Cowen (Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

One of the primary drivers of the Bill is as a result of the representations of retailers and subsequent consultation. In addition, members of political parties and none highlighted the dilapidation and underuse of properties in their area and the barriers to the possible potential use. The barriers remain in place if we do not do take action as suggested in the Bill, which focuses the minds of management and officials in local authorities on the areas of responsibilities in respect of standards and brings them together and ensures there is a mechanism put in place that allows them to act in a more cost-efficient and timely manner. That benefits everybody concerned.