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

I thank the Deputy for his comments. He mentioned communities, and where any of them want to install street furniture, seats, bedding or whatever else, the local authority does not need a licence. I encourage any groups to enhance their public space. Much good public realm work has been done throughout the country and there are very good plans in our towns and villages, both rural and urban. Community groups are encouraged to engage on that and see what they want. The local authority, based on agreement, can move forward and does not require a licence.

I know the Deputy knows that today we are seeking to extend the waiver of the fee. That is to support retailers and jobs in a particular sector that has been so badly affected by Covid-19. Secondary to that, we have used the opportunity to look at how we can use our spaces better. The legislation outlines the process and the licensing process in the local authority. Effectively, the decision-making on the granting of a licence is a devolved power to the local authority because the authority is in a better position to make that decision. It will know that one street is better than another and what is appropriate in terms of accessibility, along with what business and types of functions can happen.

The measures around pedestrianisation through the Covid-19 period have been broadly welcomed. In some cases they were initially contentious but people have seen how they worked right through the winter and not just in summer months. It is about making our towns and villages-----