Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I have had some detailed discussions on this issue. One will see from my colleagues in Galway that there are genuine concerns, particularly about funding. The historical issues are well known. The issues in Galway deserve a full and proper debate. We will have a separate Bill on any future merger and my party will reserve its position on it until it is published. I ask the Minister of State to engage more directly and intensively with the Deputies from Galway, from all parties and none, on their specific concerns, particularly about funding which is the fundamental issue. There are synergies to be achieved, but we will wait to see the Bill on the merger. At this stage, what we are talking about is the chief executive function and there being one chief executive. We are not discussing the merger of the authorities in Galway. When we do, we will certainly be considering the matter in great detail. As he knows, I have approached the Minister of State on the issue of funding. He has given some additional funds and made some commitments, but I ask him to engage with other Members. I will continue to engage with him on behalf of Fianna Fáil to make sure Galway receives its fair share and is afforded redress.