Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I agree that the Leader companies and local development bodies have been doing an outstanding job. This is a good example of a bottom-up approach to local development, bringing together the resources of statutory bodies, local groups and the voluntary and community efforts. I pay tribute to the work of local development companies and those who work with them.

I am aware of the concerns in local development companies and the Irish Local Development Network about changes under discussion. It is important that the role of the local development companies and networks is maintained. There are areas where better value for money for the taxpayer can be obtained by ensuring there is no duplication between what local development companies and local authorities are doing. There is some scope in that area. I have every confidence that the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government will take on board the concerns that local development companies have. I share the Deputy's concern that the local development companies should have their role continued, as the work they do should not in any way be put at risk. The effort should be continued, developed and enhanced.

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