Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I move amendment No. 9:

In page 22, lines 26 and 27, to delete all words from and including "in" in line 26 down to and including "Minister" in line 27.

As with amendment No. 5, this amendment attempts to moderate the somewhat heavy-handed approach implicit in the original wording of the Bill, namely, "in a form and manner in accordance with any directions issued by the Minister". Deputy McManus has accurately described the tenor of the Bill and this wording is another indication of a dictatorial approach on the part of the Minister and the Department. While I have no problem with that approach, it is unnecessary, as there is a clear obligation on the council to do all that is provided for in section 13.

The words I am seeking to delete have the further negative connotation of suggesting the strategy will be devised by the Minister or his or her office. Implicit in what is stated is a dictation that the strategy will be determined in the Minister's office, not by the council. I really do not think there can be any worthwhile outcome from the inclusion of those words in section 13, which requires the council to prepare and submit a statement of strategy. As the Minister's hopes and aspirations are already catered for in section 13, it would not be weakened by the removal of these unnecessary words. If we delete these words, this section will better reflect our approach and intent, in terms of the future working relationship in this regard. Therefore, I commend this amendment to the Minister.

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