Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 137: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the way in which the local authorities might best assist economic recovery with particular reference to dealing with job creation or retention proposals through the planning system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11927/11]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Local authorities play a central role in supporting economic development and enterprise at local level. They do this in a number of ways including through their capital and current budgets, economic planning and development and the provision of goods and services as well as community infrastructure.

Business Support Units (or similar arrangements) have been put in place in all county and city councils. These Units provide a dedicated one-stop-shop, and provide information and arrange consultations on a range of issues including planning.

Looking ahead, the Programme for Government provides for an expanded role for local authorities in local enterprise and community development. This in turn will assist in maximising the impact of investment to produce jobs at local level. In addition, I will be asking local authorities to do all that they can to reduce rates and other charges which affect businesses. Furthermore, I will be considering how best local authorities can play their part in supporting relevant elements of the Government's Jobs Initiative.