The Government introduced the concept of better local government in recent years. In doing so, local authorities were reorganised and given more powers, staff and directors of services. What is the position of local authorities vis-à-vis the legislation? The Minister said he would analyse the work to be done and decide which body would do it – Údarás na Gaeltachta or the local authority. To prevent ambiguity, the Minister should specify which body would carry out the work. When local people look for a service they go to their public representative who then goes to the local authority. Another representative might go to Údarás na Gaeltachta and then to the Department. There may be confusion as to which body is dealing with the Department on different issues. I would prefer if he designated a particular body to which power would be given. Departmental funding should be allocated on an annual basis, as this would allow for an examination of the work that has been completed to date and what plans are envisaged for the future.