Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 May 2000

Vol. 519 No. 2

Written Answers. - Decentralisation Programme.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

141 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance if he has completed the consultative process with other Government Departments on the introduction of a significant programme of decentralisation by the summer; if he will outline the criteria necessary for qualification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13539/00]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The consultative process which I commenced recently is ongoing, though I am confident that it will be concluded in sufficient time to enable the Government to be in a position to take decisions relating to the forthcoming programme of decentralisation by the summer.

While it is impossible to give an exhaustive list of criteria on which such decisions will be taken, the Government will, in determining the centres to which Government Departments, offices or agencies will be relocated, have regard to a wide range of issues, including the desire to promote regional development, economic growth and a more even spread of public service jobs around the country. The Government will also be conscious of such other issues as proximity to third-level institutions, communications and transport links, the scale of particular offices being decentralised, capacity of local infrastructure, etc.