Jim D'Arcy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have known the Minister a long time. In that time I have found he is totally committed to local government, more so than any other member of the current Government. He has said that local government will be the main vehicle for government and public service at local level. If that is delivered, it is all we want. I congratulate the Minister on his reforms. I hope the municipal districts will retain some level of competence in their areas. As he said, taking in the hinterlands which are currently under-represented will be one of the key areas of reform. I wish the Minister well.