Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

The programme for Government and the 2010 report of the local government efficiency review group both outline the need to develop and improve the synergies between the programmes and plans of local development bodies and the work of local government. Increased co-operation will provide qualitative and quantitative efficiencies and should improve the impact of relevant programmes and plans of both the local authorities and the local development companies.

While there are currently no plans to restructure the local action groups or Leader groups, work is underway to assess the potential for co-operation between local government and other agencies delivering funding programmes for the State, including local action groups. All the relevant stakeholders will be involved in this process with the ultimate aim of improving the delivery of services to the public as outlined in the programme for Government. This work is being pursued as rapidly and substantively as possible and it would not be appropriate to predetermine the results at this stage. However, the Government's objective generally is to pursue efficiencies in all local structures and to ensure that delivery systems are as effective as possible for the public.

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