Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 26 Nov 1997

Vol. 483 No. 4

Written Answers. - Local Government Funding.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

107 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if his Department will give a special increase from the equalisation fund to Carlow to reflect the status of Carlow as a growing urban centre. [20675/97]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

In 1997 payments from the local government (equalisation) fund will in the main replace income forgone from domestic water and sewerage charges and the rate support grant. The needs of all local authorities, including Carlow Urban District Council, will be borne in mind in relation to any funds remaining.

I am at present formulating a comprehensive package of measures in relation to local government funding, including the establishment of a local government fund. Equalisation will be an important component of this system and will take into account the needs and resources of all local authorities, including Carlow.