Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will respond briefly on one or two points. Deputy O'Donoghue referenced council staff. I will bring an amendment forward tomorrow, which relates to staff in the directly elected mayor's office. The mayor will be consulted on the appointment of those staff. I very much took on board what came up on Committee Stage.

Deputy McNamara referred to why we are bringing forward the amendment on local government. My Department only recently became aware of an issue with the consultation process required to be undertaken prior to declaring a qualification for a particular role in the local government sector. Having obtained legal advice, which concluded a legislative amendment was necessary, the Bill affords the opportunity to address the issue arising in a timely manner. As the Bill is the first Bill coming through, that is the reason behind that amendment.

Deputy Canney has left the Chamber, but we note the points he raised. We thank Deputy Ó Broin for his support.

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