Steven Matthews (Wicklow, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I conclude by thanking the Minister of State for introducing this legislation. He can see the general consensus that this is good. The wide stakeholder engagement has helped in getting that consensus. This is good for local democracy because it supports members of local democracies to do their jobs and to enjoy maternity leave at an important time. I echo the words of Senator Boyhan about giving more responsibility, autonomy and accountability in decision-making to local authorities. Senator Boyhan is always a fierce defender of local democracy. I agree with much of what he has said. We will produce our pre-legislative scrutiny report now. We will not take too long about that.