Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

At this stage, I will probably reserve with leave to resubmit an amendment. I will reflect on it. I think there is a move. I note that it is the local authority rather than the municipal area that will make the decision. It is not the municipal district councillors that will make the decision. From what I can see in the amendment, the local authority can make that decision in respect of a specific area but it will be done by the full council. That troubles me a bit. Perhaps the Minister might look at giving it to the municipal area because it would certainly be a step in the right direction. I know the council as a whole can designate one of the municipal areas rather than the entire county, but it would better if the authority was vested in the municipal members. Perhaps the Minister might reflect on that. I acknowledge that it is a politically astute move by the Minister.