Denis Naughten
Ceist:255 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance when he intends to implement the Government's proposals to decentralise Departments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7369/03]
Written Answers - Decentralisation Programme.
The Government remains committed to moving forward the progressive decentralisation of Government offices and agencies. As I have said previously, a wide range of important issues, including the national spatial strategy, have to be considered before a final decision is taken on this matter. 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 these wide ranging 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 the issue of decentralisation.