Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

My general principle is to ensure that as much power as possible is devolved from central to local government, and obviously town councils have an important role, as they are the closest body to the citizens in urban areas. County councils also have a role and are close to citizens. However, there is some duplication. In the context of the proposals we will introduce in the autumn, we will be examining how to define the role of each type of authority. I do not expect to abolish town councils. I do not have plans to abolish the town councils of Portlaoise and Mullingar, or I would be in desperate trouble. I do believe there are roles, responsibilities and structures that are commensurate with the times we are in, and that councils can deliver services to the citizen in a cost-effective way. In addition, they must have the capacity to implement some of the devolved functions that will be given to them.

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