Vol. 564 No. 5
152 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Finance if he will give further consideration to the detailed case outlined in respect of the need to have Cavan chosen as a centre for the Government's decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10046/03]
A wide range of important issues, including the national spatial strategy, have to be considered before a final decision is taken on a new programme of decentralisation. It is vital that all involved are consulted, be they staff concerned about their futures or departmental managements concerned about the delivery of the public services for which they have responsibility. Given the wide range of considerations it is not possible for me to state, at this time, when the Government will be in a position to take a decision on this matter.
The Government remains committed to moving forward the progressive decentralisation of Government offices and agencies. All the submissions and representations which have been received by my Department, including those received on behalf of Cavan, will be taken into account as part of the deliberative process.
