asked the Minister for the Environment the exact powers which he has devolved to local authorities since the election of 1985.
Written Answers. - Power Devolution to Local Authorities.
45.
As I have already stated in the House, devolution on the scale envisaged in the Policy Statement on the Reform of Local Government, which I issued on 30 May 1985 is a major undertaking and will be implemented in stages following careful analysis of the organisational and procedural implications of each proposal. The purpose of such examination is to avoid duplication of services and to ensure that there will be no net addition to the cost of services. The necessary examinations involving several Departments are taking place under the supervision of the devolution implementation group chaired by the Minister for the Public Service as provided for in the policy statement.
In the case of my own Department consultations with staff interests are proceeding, as provided for in the policy statement, with a view to the implementation of arrangements for devolution of work in the grants areas without disruption of the public services concerned.
Arrangements for devolving the administration of the Dublin inner city programme and fund to Dublin Corporation have been finalised and are expected to be in operation shortly. Further devolution provisions will be included in legislation on local government reorganisation and on road traffic matters which will be coming forward later this year. Given the complexities involved significant progress is being made and it is the intention to proceed with implementation of the programme with all feasible speed.