Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 May 2014
473. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will to intervene with the Irish local development networks to break the impasse that has been created due to the breakdown of talks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21363/14]
View answerMy Department is in continuing dialogue with all the key stakeholders, including the Irish Local Development Network (ILDN) , on the optimum programme delivery arrangements under the new Local Community Development Committee structures. The recent discussions with the ILDN have focused primarily on implementation arrangements under the new LEADER programme. I have put forward proposals to the local development companies in this regard. While the ILDN have rejected these proposals, I understand that they intend shortly to submit a paper to me in this regard, which I look forward to receiving. My Department and I will continue to work constructively with the ILDN in implementing the new structures.
I am committed to the timely implementation of the provisions of the Local Government Reform Act 2014 and to the effective and efficient delivery of the Department’s community support programmes. It is a matter for the ILDN to consider how they wish to engage with the community and local government alignment process at this stage rather than for any further interventions by me or my Department.
