Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his recognition that there is more cohesive and strategic planning between the two local authorities and indeed in the region. It is important that can continue and that it improves into the future. The issue with the metropolitan boundary is something we can certainly have a look at. The Deputy has made that point to me before. It is within Waterford and within the city metropolitan boundary itself with no further expansion of the country or reallocation of county boundaries. I want to be clear on that. Within the metropolitan area, that is certainly something that is being looked at but that we will assess. I will continue to engage with the Deputy on it. Fundamentally for ourselves in government and for him as a Deputy from Waterford, we want to see the investment that is being put in place in Waterford coming to fruition. We want to see boots on the ground in Waterford in respect of the fantastic developments around the north and south quays and right around through the city itself. It is great to see. We want to continue to support that and continue to support smaller projects. We are advancing housing within Waterford as well, the delivery of affordable housing, cost rental properties and affordable purchase. I will keep the Deputy informed of progress.

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