Brendan Smith
Question:38 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Finance if County Cavan will be considered as a location for decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30013/01]
Written Answers. - Decentralisation Programme.
Brendan Smith
Question:45 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Finance if, in the context of promotion of regional development of the Border region consideration will be given to County Cavan as a centre for decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30014/01]
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:57 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the programme for decentralisation; and if and when commitments made in this regard will be implemented. [29945/01]
Dick Spring
Question:58 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the Government proposals for decentralisation of up to 10,000 civil and public servants; when it is expected the programme of decentralisation will commence; when it is expected to be completed; if the Government plans to accelerate the programme of decentralisation having regard to new projections from the Central Statistics Office indicating a huge growth in the population of the greater Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29970/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38, 45, 57 and 58 together.
I have repeatedly made clear my determination to proceed with a new programme of decentralisation only after proper and full deliberation. That process is ongoing and in view of my determination in this regard I am not in a position to say definitively when the Government will be in a position to take decisions on a new programme other than to say such decisions will be taken as soon as is practicable after the conclusion of the ongoing deliberations. Nor, therefore, am I in a position to comment on the likelihood of any particular location being included in the programme. What I can say, however, is that consideration is obviously being given to the selection of particular locations for inclusion in the programme as well as the basis on which such locations will be selected. I am aware of the very many well made cases for such inclusion and, in that regard, that the case made in favour of County Cavan will be given full consideration.