Written answers
Wednesday, 12 March 2014
Department of Environment, Community and Local Government
Local Government Reform
Eamonn Maloney (Dublin South West, Labour)
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50. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if he will clarify what is meant by participatory budgeting; the way involvement of community activists and citizens can be facilitated in such a way as to respect the mandate of elected representatives and empower ordinary citizens not necessarily affiliated with lobby groups or NGOs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11804/14]
Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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As outlined in paragraph 11.9.13 of The Action Programme for Effective Local Government, participatory budgeting is a fiscal decision-making mechanism which involves citizens in the discussion of municipal budgets and/or the allocation of municipal funding. The framework for public participation in the Local Government Reform Act 2014, sets out the general principles for formal engagement by local authorities with the community. It will be underpinned by regulations and guidelines from my Department. In accordance with the Act, the regulations and guidelines will also make provision for informing/consulting with citizens through a variety of mechanisms, including social media. However, the primary responsibility and accountability for decision-making within the local authority remains with the elected council.
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