Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

No. I met the IVEA before becoming Minister and subsequently and informed it that if it could come up with the same type of savings, and the same kind of configuration of 16 bodies I was open in principle to considering it. I have not set my heart on a particular configuration. There are alternatives, but I will wait to see the IVEA suggestions. I gather the central council has come up with a set of recommendations, but these must still be signed up to by the individual VECs. The matter lies with them and as soon as I receive the proposals, I will move forward.

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