Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

My name is attached to the Bill also because, following detailed discussions with local representatives, it became clear that Galway should be dealt with in a separate, comprehensive Bill. That is what we are looking for. We have all spoken in favour of the Cork proposal and believe the Bill we are discussing will be good for Cork, but there are major concerns about the Galway proposal. Therefore, Galway should not be dealt with in this Bill.

We have spoken about services, housing and CEOs. The Minister of State has one of the most important roles because he is dealing with local authorities which have a major impact on people’s lives, through planning, housing and dealing with the whole town environment. Plans like the one in question play such a role in people’s lives that we must ensure we get them right. We must also make sure that, where Galway is concerned and concerns arise about various issues, we protect and do our best for those affected. We support the Cork proposal which is not a problem, but we need to ensure we also support Galway in what it wants. It is important that we recognise the issues that arise.