Caít Keane (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Mooney has raised an important point about local authorities and nominations to county development boards. It happens differently in various counties, so we should have a debate about it because it is important to have a balance in local community developments. Section 128(e) of the Local Government Act provides a role for elected local authority members. It also provides that the corporate policy group, in consultation with the CEO or manager, can select members. The corporate policy group must decide on balance because it cannot all concern councillors and community groups.
Corporate policy groups are stronger in some counties than in others and they know their powers. When they have agreed the selection process with the CEO, it is put to all the members. Confusion may have arisen, however, because when it comes to the members it states that it has to be without a change or differentiation on what has come down from the corporate policy group or the CPO. Councils will need clarification on that matter to avoid doubt. Given that different methodologies are being implemented throughout Ireland, as Senator Mooney has said, perhaps clarification is required from the Department. Section 128(e) of the Local Government Act should be re-examined in that respect.
When we return in the autumn, we should have a debate on the new and more inclusive local government structures. Hitches and glitches will occur, so such a debate would be welcome.