Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We must bear in mind that the tender process is a legal one which was open to everyone to submit an application. Having said that, I am very conscious that communities have been trying to get their heads around the LCDC structure, the changes and the alignment process, and that there are difficulties, both actual and perceived. I will ask my officials to contact both Deputies to see if we can sit down and examine possible ways to support the communities.

My foremost concern is that front-line services be delivered to those communities that need them. I will take the Deputy's concerns on board and ask my officials to get in contact with them to determine whether there is a road forward. There would be no problem with having a chat with anyone about finding compromise.

See this speech in context