Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 94:

In page 71, line 8, after “authorities” to insert “or, in the event that there is a single association, such association”.

Following consultation with the associations representing local authorities and councillors, especially the Association of County and City Councils, ACCC, I have proposed several amendments to section 51. The section amends section 225 of the principal Act which relates to the associations representing local authorities and their elected members. I have been informed that the discussions on the amalgamation of the two existing associations are progressing satisfactorily. Amendment No. 94 makes provision, in the event that a single entity is established, that the Minister will meet delegations of the association at least once per year to discuss policy concerns.

Amendment No. 95 would remove subsection 225(3A)(c) in section 51. This would have given the Minister powers to limit the size of any delegation when the new association or existing associations wished to meet him or her. I am assured that there will be a willingness to make mutually agreeable arrangements for these meetings. I accept the assurance and I am satisfied that there is no need for the provision.