Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
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Question 509: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is expected that the necessary sections of the Local Government Act 2001 will be in place for the introduction of new town councils prior to the end of term for this Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17394/06]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Local Government Act 2001 modernises the legislative framework, supports community involvement with local authorities in a more participative local democracy and underpins generally the programme of local government renewal. More than 80% of the Act has been brought into operation, on a phased basis, inter alia facilitating improved access, interaction, linkages and service provision for all towns and areas with their respective county councils.

I am considering the steps necessary to commence the provisions of the 2001 Act in respect of new town councils. The creation of new town councils and their prospective functional responsibilities under the Act also feature in my discussions with local government interests as the opportunity arises. I will continue to keep the position under review, in tandem with consolidating progress on quality customer service measures, with the aim of ensuring good accessible local government service delivery for all towns.