Mr. Des Dowling:

I have to tread carefully with regard to the policy approach. All I can say is that in the local government committees' examinations of these questions, they did not stumble over the question of the city approach. Obviously, however, this would be a matter for the Minister and Oireachtas to legislate for in due course, if that is the appropriate policy approach. However, there is very strong recognition that city identity must be retained and preserved.