Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I seek clarity on section 85 agreements between local authorities, mainly relating to shared services. 25 May is D Day. The local elections will be over and we must ask how it will work in areas such as planning permission applications in the new districts. This is an important matter for everyday living so that people receive the services they seek, whether it is planning, housing or another of the plethora of services that will move within hours of this happening. We discussed staff earlier. There is great concern over which staff will move and when, and whether that will be done on time. These are all important issues.

Is the Minister of State aware of how many section 85 agreements will be involved between the two local authorities? What services will be subject to the agreements? How will he progress the scenario where the 85,000 people are moved into the city that they can receive the services they require? It is a significant issue which will change over night and clarity is needed on the number that exist now and that will come about.