Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 520: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on the issue of the alignment of local development companies and local authorities; his plans for this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11141/12]

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

I established a high level Steering Group in September 2011 to deliver on the Programme for Government commitment to review local governance structures with a view to improving the delivery of services to the citizen. The Group was tasked with examining the scope for enhancing the alignment of local government and local development functions and programmes and advising me on options for a more integrated delivery of local and community development services.

I believe there are significant opportunities for a more joined-up approach by local government and local development; an approach that harnesses the strengths and experiences of both sectors and facilitates the best possible outcomes for communities, especially at a time when resources are scarce and there is an increasing demand for services.

The Steering Group presented its Interim Report to me in December 2011. It outlined some preliminary conclusions vis-À-vis the existing arrangements and the respective roles of local authorities and local and community development. The Report can be viewed on my Department's website (www.environ.ie )

I expect to receive the Steering Group's Final Report shortly, and I will consider the Group's recommendations carefully in determining how best to ensure that we pursue the most effective and efficient service design and delivery model for communities.