James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 890: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to increase funding to local authorities, particularly Longford and Westmeath, as a consequence of the reduction in development levies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18966/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Development contributions have been an important addition to the capital funding resources of local authorities but they are only one element and local authorities generate capital income from a variety of sources including grants. In addition, limited debt finance is available to local authorities as necessary to finance their capital investment.

The adoption of development contribution schemes is a reserved function of the elected members of local authorities. My Department provides a policy guidance framework for development contributions which is designed to draw the attention of local authorities to their obligations under the legislation, while also recognising that the adoption of development contribution schemes remains a reserved function. Further draft guidance which will reflect current economic conditions is currently being prepared for public consultation. My Department will continue to work closely with local authorities, including Westmeath and Longford County Councils, on this and other matters.

James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 891: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to fund local authorities to carry the costs of compliance, Environmental Protection Agency, health and safety and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18967/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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It is a matter for each local authority to manage its own budget and prioritise its spending, within the resources available to it, across the range of services it provides.