Vol. 550 No. 2
227 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if Mullingar, County Westmeath has been considered as a suitable location for decentralisation of a Government Department; and if he will make a statement on the Government's plans for decentralisation. [7977/02]
As the Deputy is aware, a strong case has been made for the inclusion of Mullingar in a new programme of decentralisation. This submission, along with the many others received by my Department, will receive full consideration in the context of the ongoing review of the many issues involved. As regards the programme itself, I have consistently said that decisions should be taken only after proper deliberation. In view of the importance of decentralisation to so many individuals and communities throughout the country, as evidenced by the vast numbers of representations and submissions received by my Department, as well as the obvious significance to and impact on the staff concerned and the system of public administration generally, we have decided that no decisions will be taken before the general election. This will ensure that decisions are taken on the basis of proper consideration and not on the basis of party political considerations. This approach in no way diminishes the Government's commitment to decentralisation and the ongoing work being done in my Department will facilitate decisions being taken after the election.
