John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

I propose to take Question Nos. 10 and 203 together.

I published the Green Paper on local government, Stronger Local Democracy - Options for Change, in April 2008. That was followed by an extensive programme of national consultation for purposes of informing the preparation of the White Paper on local government. The environment has altered considerably since April 2008, not least due to the severe economic downturn. Work on the White Paper has also had to have regard to the report of the Commission on Taxation, the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes, and the renewed programme for Government.

A dedicated Cabinet committee is finalising the major strategic issues for inclusion in the White Paper, which will be published as soon as possible following the completion of the committee's deliberations. It is essential we get the White Paper right, that it is grounded in today's challenges, contains appropriate ambition and will be readily implementable.

I have put other significant local government initiatives in place in recent months. I established the Limerick Local Government Committee, to prepare a report on the most appropriate arrangements for local government for the city and county of Limerick. I have published the general scheme of the legislation to provide for the mayor for Dublin. I also established the Local Government Efficiency Review Group and I have requested that it complete its work by mid 2010. I have asked the group to review the cost base, expenditure and numbers employed in local authorities with a view to reporting on specific recommendations to reduce costs, the effectiveness of particular programmes, optimal efficiency in the way programmes are delivered and any other proposals to enhance value for money in the delivery of services at local level. The group's findings and recommendations will then be considered in the appropriate policy and financial contexts. Collectively, these initiatives will be of great importance to the future of the local government system and its stakeholders.

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