Eoin Ó Broin (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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1022. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government if he will report on the implementation of the Programme for Partnership Government commitments in respect of local government reform (details supplied); if he will further report on the possible devolution of new powers to local authorities and the establishment of town and borough councils. [12003/18]

John Paul Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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The Programme for a Partnership Government (PPG) sets out a number of requirements in relation to local government reform. In particular, the PPG envisages the submission of a report to Government and the Oireachtas on potential measures to boost local government leadership and accountability, and to ensure that local government funding, structures and responsibilities strengthen local democracy.

Proposals to address a number of the PPG requirements have been the subject of consideration by Government. Among the issues being addressed in this context is municipal governance, including the questions of town or borough status and local electoral areas, as referenced in the PPG. Following recent consideration by Government, arrangements are being made for the referral of the relevant documents to the Oireachtas for consideration.

It is envisaged that proposals on further aspect of local government structures, functions, and governance will be submitted to Government in the coming weeks pursuant to the requirements of the PPG.