Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

The Local Government Act 2001 (Section 237A) Regulations 2003, provide, inter alia, for the supply of specified documentation to Oireachtas Members by the local authority such as the local authority budget, draft development plan, etc. It is a matter for each local authority to deal with requests for access to information by a parliamentary representative as expeditiously as possible and in accordance with a proper level of customer service. In this regard, local authorities are required to put in place arrangements to ensure that systems, procedures and time frames equivalent to those used by them in regard to correspondence from local authority members also apply in respect of parliamentary representatives. Managers are required to meet at least annually with local Oireachtas Members to provide an opportunity for an update on developments and for any difficulties encountered to be raised and addressed.

My Department has gathered information from local authorities on a periodic basis on the practical application of the arrangements established by the regulations. Based on the information received, I understand that local authorities are generally complying with these arrangements. I will continue to monitor compliance by local authorities with the regulations.

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