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

As the Deputy knows, the alignment process between local authorities, my Department and the local community development groups has been ongoing for 18 months. It is not making as much progress as it should, because of the procrastination of certain people who do not want change. The local development companies decided two weeks ago to withdraw from the process. They changed their minds yesterday and now wish to engage again with regard to the type of role the community structures will play in the delivery of these programmes. There will be a partnership between the local authority and the community structures under the LCDC, the committee that will have an oversight and monitoring role in the delivery of these programmes. I expect that community structures within the community area will be delivering and implementing the programmes.

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