Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Apr 2001

Vol. 533 No. 6

Written Answers. - Decentralisation Programme.

Willie Penrose

Question:

192 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance the position in relation to the Government's proposals to embark upon an intensive programme of decentralisation; if, in that context, he can confirm receipt of a comprehensive application therefor from Westmeath County Council in support of Mullingar as an ideal centre for such decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9694/01]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

195 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance if full consideration has been given to the decentralisation of a Government office to the town of Bandon; and when a decision can be expected in this regard. [9705/01]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy):

I propose to take Questions Nos. 192 and 195 together.

The Government remains fully committed to the introduction of a new programme of decentralisation over the next few months. It is unfortunate I have not been able to progress this issue quite as quickly as I would have liked, but the reality is I have been heavily involved in a range of very important activities over the past number of months, most recently with the Finance Bill which was only enacted in recent days. I now intend to pursue, with some vigour, my plans for a new programme of decentralisation.

A considerable amount of preparatory work has been done in my Department over the past year or so in developing proposals, which I intend to finalise for submission to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Decentralisation and thereafter to the Government. In finalising my proposals I will have regard to all of the submissions received by my Department, including those received in respect of Mullingar and Bandon. I will also take into account a number of other factors and views, including those of the civil service management and the civil and public service unions. I have also had informal discussions on a new programme with my Government colleagues in recent months.

While I do not want to sound evasive about a final date for a decision, I am not prepared to say definitively when a Government decision will be taken. The scale of the proposed programme and the range of issues and views that need to be taken into account are such that a reasonable period of consideration would be appropriate. I can say, however, it is my firm intention to progress my proposals and I can assure the House of my determination, and that of the Government, to decide on a substantial programme of decentralisation over the next few months.