Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am glad Deputy Healy-Rae does not have responsibility now. Putting People First, the document I mentioned earlier, strengthens and refocuses the role of local government towards economic, social and community development locally. It is the Government's view that local authorities will have a central role in the oversight and planning of local and community development planning. I do not see the problem with that as the democratic input is important in every county, including County Kerry. I am sure Deputy Healy-Rae is happy that his brother is a councillor in Kerry Council County and will be able to be involved in the oversight and planning of the programmes to ensure they are focused and targeted in a way that-----

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