Mr. Paul Lemass:

The changes made in 2014 gave local authorities a number of powers. In respect of the community function, for example, they were given a hands-on role under the Leader, SICAP and other programmes. They were also given additional enterprise support functions. The funding for local enterprise offices goes directly to local authorities. The question of economic development at local level is probably not discussed frequently enough. The chief executives of local authorities, in particular, are stepping up to take a leadership role in ensuring the various State agencies are co-operating at local level. The regeneration of Tralee town centre is a very good example of this. The Courts Service, IDA Ireland and other agencies were brought together to bring about a very positive development in the town. County councils have been strengthened in these areas.

The Minister of State referred to devolution, on which we have had numerous reports. They have tended to be top-down, by which I mean that they have proposed consultation with Departments to see who would like to devolve something. In the paper, without giving a hostage to fortune, there is a view that an opportunity should be given for bottom-up dynamic devolution. It would enable people to identify the potential for the local authority to play a role in the provision of services at local level. This different mindset might give a little more momentum to the devolution agenda. It might be considered in the forthcoming paper.