Vol. 569 No. 4
179 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the position in regard to decentralisation; when a decision is due in relation to such decentralisation; if Athy will be granted such decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18026/03]
A wide range of important issues must be considered in the process of reaching a Government decision on decentralisation. That decision has not yet been taken and before it is taken it is vital that all concerned are fully consulted, be they staff concerned about their futures or departmental management concerned about the delivery of public services.
I am not in position at present to state when the Government will make a decision on the matter but while the deliberative process is ongoing, it would be premature and inappropriate to identify a particular location which might be selected for inclusion in the new programme of decentralisation. I am aware of the case made for Athy and it will be given consideration, along with all submissions received on behalf of towns around the country, as part of the deliberative process.
