Vol. 231 No. 5
asked the Minister for Finance if in regard to the Government's plans to decentralise Government Departments he will consider setting up a headquarters of a suitable Department in Birr, County Offaly where the State owns extensive lands and property at Crinkle, having special regard to the fact that Birr has the highest rate of unemployment in the county in view of the closing of an important local industry.
64.
asked the Minister for Finance the Government Departments, other than those of Lands and Education, which are likely to be decentralised; and the centres to which they may be transferred.
I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 63 and 64 together.
The Government's policy in regard to decentralisation was announced by the Taoiseach on 16 November, 1967, and I have nothing to add to that statement at this stage.
Does the Minister not feel that when a Deputy puts forward a suggestion of this nature, it should receive careful consideration? If another area in the country where there is a need for development is suggested, and a large amount of property is available for such development, does the Minister not think he might elaborate on Deputy Flanagan's suggestion?
The Taoiseach's statement indicated that the greatest possible amount of decentralisation of as much of the administration of the commerce and industry of the country is an essential part of the programme of the present Government. It is quite clear, from that, that if suitable opportunities present themselves for further decentralisation—and not just of the public service—they will be considered.
