Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There are robust governance structures in place at local government level, based on legislation and good practice. All local authorities have an internal audit unit and an audit committee, chaired by an independent expert.

There are also opportunities to further strengthen the powers of locally elected members in respect of their primary oversight and governance role in regard to local authorities. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage will continue to engage with councillor representative bodies and the sector in this respect.

I note the report’s finding that financial conditions for elected members have improved, although the finding that Ireland is only partly in compliance with the charter in this regard is disappointing. Since 2021, a number of very significant improvements in the terms and conditions for councillors have been introduced and, indeed, are ongoing. In terms of their remuneration alone, elected members have seen their annual remuneration payment rise by over 60% to €30,274 since 2021. The Government has also aggressively promoted the balanced participation of women and wider diversity in local government, and reduced barriers to participation. The introduction of maternity leave in 2022 and additional maternity-related supports in 2023 are other actions we would like to point to. I will ask the Department to send the memo requested by the Senator.