Written answers

Wednesday, 17 May 2006

Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government

County Boundaries

9:00 pm

Photo of John McGuinnessJohn McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 327: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the dates on which he received submissions from Waterford and Kilkenny local authorities regarding the application from Waterford Council to extend their county boundary; the cost incurred by each authority relative to the issue; if he will make a decision on the matter; if he will request both authorities to co-operate at county level to establish a joint development plan rather than adjusting county boundaries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18683/06]

Photo of Dick RocheDick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The procedures currently governing boundary alterations are set out in Part V of the Local Government Act 1991 and associated regulations. Under these provisions, it is open to a local authority to initiate a proposal for the alteration of its boundaries. This involves preparation of a formal boundary alteration proposal by the authority concerned including financial, organisational and other implications; invitation of public submissions and consultation with the other local authorities affected by the proposal, prior to submitting a formal application to the Minister.

No boundary application from Waterford City Council is currently before my Department, nor has my Department details of the costs incurred to date by Waterford City Council or Kilkenny County Council in relation to this matter. However, I understand that Waterford City Council recently agreed to submit such an application formally. Under the 1991 Act, any proposed boundary extension would require the approval of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and accordingly it would be inappropriate for me to make any comment at this stage.

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