Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 34: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is intended to retain a town council system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6830/11]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 50: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to reform and empower local government, including introducing participatory democracy initiatives. [6923/11]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 34 and 50 together.

A range of work relevant to local government reform is under way or in planning arising from the Report of the Local Government Efficiency Review Group and I am reviewing the next immediate steps to augment this work. I will also be considering wider proposals to renew and develop the local government system in line with the Programme for Government and building on relevant research and analysis already undertaken in this area.

Key objectives under the Programme for Government include devolution of greater decision-making to local level, strengthening the powers and functions of local authorities; enhancing the development and leadership role of local government and strengthening its structures and funding arrangements. I intend bringing proposals to Government in due course on action to take forward the proposals in the Programme to strengthen the local government system and improve its capacity to meet current and future challenges and to make a substantial contribution to the national recovery effort.