Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

I join Senator Cáit Keane in calling on the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government to come to the House for a debate on reform of local government. I was present, together with Senators Denis Landy and Ned O'Sullivan, at a meeting in Cavan at the weekend where the Minister addressed the Association of Municipal Authorities of Ireland, AMAI, conference, which was attended by more than 400 delegates. Although the Minister made an excellent speech, it left us with more questions than answers. For example, he seemed to indicate that the future of town councils is safe, before going on to elaborate on how he envisages new district councils representing towns.

Will the Minister come to the House to clarify precisely what he is proposing? He has said he will outline his blueprint within eight weeks, but it is important that he addresses the issue in this House. He should also clarify his reported proposal to reduce the number of councillors elected at the next local election. It is not acceptable for him to bring proposals to Government and then issue a statement to the media before he has addressed both Houses regarding his proposals. I ask the Leader to facilitate such a discussion without delay.