Brian Stanley (Laois-Offaly, Sinn Fein)
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557. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government if the local authority library services are to be merged between counties and his plans for same; the stage at which the plans are at; and the discussions that have taken place with councillors and their representative body. [2448/15]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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The report Managing the Delivery of Effective Library Services , which issued to all local authorities in October 2014, contains detailed arrangements for the planning and implementation of new structures in order to establish stronger, more effective and efficient public libraries and deliver better library services to local communities and citizens, in line with Government policy on public sector reform. Local authorities were requested to submit proposals for the implementation of the new library structures and the other provisions arising. The initiative is the outcome of a considered and thorough review of the library service and in-depth consultation with stakeholders, which established the need for scale in the management of a modern library service. The increased capacity resulting from the new structures will increase the scope for developing and enhancing services to the public, providing a broader range of services to the same high standard across the country.

This initiative has been carefully planned to maintain the local library service branding and identity. The frontline service will continue to be locally focused and people-centred, with opportunities for enhanced individual and community support services and engagement. The report identifies the strong staffing structure necessary to deliver these services and provides the commitment to implement this across the country.

Local ownership and decision-making will be maintained through ensuring that the role of the elected members remains unchanged and that local representatives continue to approve policies, priorities and budgets for their library services.

The development of this initiative commenced before the formation of the Association of Irish Local Government, and it is a matter for each local authority to consult with their own elected members.