Jim O'Keeffe
Question:40 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance his views on the proposals to establish regional development authorities throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Regional Development Authorities.
The Deputy will be aware that there is already in place a comprehensive array of State agencies and supports for economic development at national, regional and local level.
The Deputy will also be aware that under the provisions of the Local Government Act, 1991 it is proposed to establish eight regional authorities composed of elected members nominated by the constituent county and county borough councils to promote co-ordination of public services and co-ordination between the programmes of local authorities and other public agencies.
The Deputy will also be aware that, for the purposes of European Community policies, in particular the EC Structural Funds, Ireland is classified as one region. However, as I indicated in reply to a question from Deputy Mac Giolla (No. 66 on today's order paper), the Government have established a consultation process with sub-regional representatives of local authorities and the social partners so that the needs and priorities of all areas may be fully taken into account in the preparation and implementation of Structural-Fund-aided measures.