Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 120: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to a commitment (details supplied) to the effect that he would take responsibility for parliamentary questions relating to the administration and policy of local authorities thereby ensuring openness, accountability and transparency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20767/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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It is a matter for each local authority to deal with requests for access to information by a parliamentary representative as expeditiously as possible and in accordance with a proper level of customer service. In this regard local authorities are required to put in place arrangements to ensure that systems, procedures and time frames equivalent to those used by them in relation to correspondence from local authority members also apply in respect of parliamentary representatives.

My Department has previously gathered information from local authorities on the practical application of the arrangements for the supply of specified information to Oireachtas members under the Local Government Act 2001 (section 237A) Regulations 2003. This information is being updated at present. Based on the further information received to date, I understand that local authorities are generally complying with these arrangements. I am however continuing to review this matter and, if necessary, will issue supplementary guidance to local authorities reminding them of the need to provide a reasonable level of service for Oireachtas members and facilitate them in carrying out their work on behalf of local communities.