Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)
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906. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the model upon which he is basing his local government reform plan; if it has proved effective elsewhere; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37688/13]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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The Government’s Action Programme for Effective Local Government, which was published on 16 October 2012, sets out Government decisions for a range of measures in relation to local government structures, functions, funding, governance and operational matters.

The Action Programme is informed by a range of internationally accepted principles , practices and requirements intended to enable Irish local government to fulfil its purpose effectively and to maximise its potential . In particular, emphasis is being placed on improved subsidiarity, wider functions, more stable finances, increased efficiencies and greater openness and transparency.

The Action Programme builds on previous work done on local government, including earlier studies, the 2008 Green Paper on Local Government , the 2010 Local Government Efficiency Review Group Report and the report of the Local Development/Local Government Steering Group . It is informed by a w ide ranging consultation which also took place, including the invitation to each elected member to submit their views on a wide range of issues relating to local government reform.

The changes being implemented through the Action Programme will strengthen our local government system and make it the main vehicle of governance and public service at local level.