James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I am not implying that. I am not in government. A lot of power was taken from local authority members and given to central government and brought no real reform in its place. It is important that power is devolved to local level and that real functions are delegated to local communities and elected representatives who are capable of dealing with many of the issues involved. They know where lottery funding should go within communities and counties. It is an issue that should be decided locally.

Regarding local health committees, elected representatives know the real needs of areas in terms of community health services. Local health committees served us well. Their members were committed to providing a better health structure in the counties concerned. Elected representatives also know the needs of areas in terms of education as they are dealt with weekly at clinics.

Although policing policy should be decided on a national level, local representatives should have a role in determining local services, such as the distribution of CCTV cameras. Local authorities should be allowed to make such decisions, in conjunction with the local Garda Síochána. I do not wish to limit the policy areas that should be decided locally to those listed in the amendment, as others could be examined.

A proper system of efficient local government should be established. We should adopt a system of local government similar to that in Denmark, which I have always admired. There can be a greater sense of communication with the electorate if basic decisions are taken at a local level. People can access information about controversial matters such as waste management if they are being dealt with locally. It seems that matters are decided over the heads of local people when too many decisions are taken at national level. It is important that we take steps to ensure local authorities can become genuine councils of the people.

I am disappointed by this Local Government Bill, as there is not enough meat on its bones. I urge the Minister, Deputy Cullen, to bring forward amendments to it that will facilitate real and honest reform of local government. The steps that have been taken so far represent a piecemeal approach. This matter needs to be addressed in the near future, rather than putting it on the long finger.