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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 Nov 2003

Vol. 575 No. 4

Written Answers. - Local Government Structure.

David Stanton

Question:

102 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government his plans for further development of local government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28426/03]

The past few years have seen a major local government modernisation programme with constitutional recognition and guaranteed local elections; record levels of funding; strengthened political and management structures; an updated legal framework and an efficiency agenda focused on improved financial management, IT, human resources, corporate planning and customer service. Earlier this year legislation was enacted to end the dual mandate and a major independent study to identify future funding options for local government is also being commissioned.

A key element of the modernisation process going forward is the continued development of the county/city development board system, already providing a wider role for local government. Through these development boards local authorities have a central role in bringing together at local level the various public agencies, social partners and local development bodies and in developing, overseeing and monitoring an integrated strategy for the economic, social and cultural development of their areas.

It is my aim, over the lifetime of the Government, to build on progress to date and to carry forward a significant change agenda for local government including a wider role, secure funding, improved effectiveness and efficiency and proper democratic input.

Question No. 103 answered with Question No. 98.

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