Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 7, 34, 55, 163 and 164 together.

I am adopting a progressive approach to the reform and development of local government in accordance with the programme for Government. Decisions have already been taken to merge the authorities in Limerick and Tipperary and implementation work is proceeding in both cases. I have also established a local government committee to consider whether Waterford city and county councils should be unified.

I intend to bring wider policy proposals to Government in the near future which will build on these early actions, with particular attention being given to strengthening local government structures generally at regional, county and sub-county levels and expanding the role of local government, including proposals in regard to municipal governance within counties. In this context, I am also consulting ministerial colleagues to consider what functions and services of their Departments and of bodies under their aegis could potentially be devolved to local government.

The proposals will reflect work under way in regard to alignment of local and community development with local government and local government efficiency implementation. They will also broadly map out further aspects of the local government system on which reform proposals will be considered, including a range of governance matters such as ethics, local political and executive leadership, and the balance between elected members and the executive in the performance of functions. The future designation and role of the county manager will be among the matters for consideration in that context.

Primary legislation will be required in the first instance to provide for transitional management arrangements in Limerick and Tipperary until the establishment of a unified local authority in both counties in 2014. Further substantive legislation will be required to implement, with effect from the 2014 local elections, the full amalgamation of the authorities in question and establishment of their successors. The need for any additional legislation related to the wider policy proposals will be examined, in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General, when these matters have been decided by Government.

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