asked the Minister for the Environment if he has met with representatives of the trade unions who represent staff in the local authorities to discuss with them any proposals that he may have for changes in the local government system; and, if so, if he will give an indication of the discussions which have taken place.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Local Government System Changes.
12.
I have recently had a meeting with representatives of the Local Government and Public Service Union, at their request, to discuss a wide range of items mainly pertaining to staff matters. At that meeting the union representatives sought information on my future plans for reform of the local government system. In reply, I stated, as I have done publicly on a number of occasions, that the question of what reforms may be necessary in local government structures is at present under examination in the Department and that this examination involves a study of all earlier proposals for reorganisation in the light of developments which have taken place in recent years and in the context of present day conditions.
I am glad the meeting has taken place. Would the Minister consider, in view of the experience in Britain with regard to local government reform and the difficulties over staffing and so forth, undertaking to have extensive negotiations with all the trade unions involved in running the local government services and not, as I took from his answer, the major union that handles that particular area?
I could not say how many unions are involved but I know that this is the major one. The Transport Union are also involved. We had a short discussion on reform on that occasion. This was only one of three meetings I have had since around Christmas with a particular union. If the other union wish to meet me I will have no hesitation in meeting them.