Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We reduced the Exchequer contribution for local authority services, not the local government fund.

Senator Landy has had a genuine interest in local authorities for a long time. We have had differences and agreements on the fundamental issue of devolution and that is where both of us are coming from. In line with what I have just said, I will strengthen the opportunities for councillors to make decisions at local level and as near as possible to the citizen. I would like people to keep an open mind about our structures. The devil will be in the detail when it comes to municipal district powers.