Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

Decentralisation is an issue of keen interest to many Members of this House. I, personally, have always been an advocate of decentralisation and I am particularly pleased to have this opportunity to address the issue on the Adjournment. The Government's commitment to introducing a new programme of decentralisation is evident in the commitment made in An Agreed Programme for Government in which we undertook to move forward the progressive decentralisation of Government offices and agencies, taking into account the national spatial strategy aimed at ensuring all regions develop to their potential.

It has been clear from the outset – this is something the Minister for Finance has reiterated in the Dáil on many occasions of late, in reply to parliamentary questions put by a number of Deputies – that there is a wide range of important issues which must be taken into consideration before arriving at a decision. I appreciate that a new programme of decentralisation will be a matter of great significance and trust that this House will, therefore, appreciate the reason the Government is determined that a decision should be taken only after proper deliberation. Given its importance and the level of interest in the issue, it is unfortunate that consideration of the many and varied issues involved has taken longer than had originally been anticipated.

Some 120 urban centres in every county have expressed interest in being part of the new programme, with each and every case receiving consideration. It has been necessary to consult widely with staff, departmental management and other interests. I share the Minister's concern that the deliberations which precede a major decision such as this should reflect the genuine concerns of all those who will be affected by a new and comprehensive programme, be they staff concerned about their future or departmental management concerned about the delivery of public services for which they have responsibility.

There are important lessons to be learned from previous experience of decentralisation. There is a clear determination that those lessons must not only be learned but also applied. Towns and cities to which departmental offices have previously been decentralised were selected having regard to the desire to promote regional development, economic growth and the creation of a more even spread of public service jobs around the country. These criteria are equally applicable in the context of a new programme.