Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I suggest that if there are efficiencies to be achieved, they should be achieved without reference to anything else that is happening. The four local authorities are doing the best they can in the current system - I have no difficulty with them. What the Minister is doing is seeking to put another layer of political bureaucracy on top of the four local authorities instead of reviewing the role and remit of the four local authorities in a regional sense at the time he is putting forward this legislation.

Will the Minister confirm he is having difficulties with his partners in Government in regard to the powers and remit of the person of mayor?

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