Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2004
816 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport the measures he has taken to advance the decentralisation to the west of Ireland of sections of his Department or agencies or bodies for which he has responsibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1493/04]
Amharc ar fhreagra827 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if assessments are under way in his Department on the activities proposed for decentralisation; the impact on the operations of the Department; the risks to the organisation attendant on this move; the measures that will be put in place to minimise disruption; and if these reports will be presented to him at an early date for consideration. [1981/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to answer Questions Nos. 816 and 827 together.
I have established a decentralisation implementation group in my Department to manage the decentralisation process. It is chaired by an assistant secretary and includes representatives from the areas-agencies scheduled for decentralisation. This group is considering the specific issues raised in the context of this Department and its agencies, is conscious of the need to minimise disruption and is preparing plans to implement the programme in so far as it impacts on my Department. Information regarding the number and grade of staff decentralising and their associated accommodation needs has been furnished to the Department of Finance implementation committee. My Department will continue to co-operate with the Department of Finance and the Office of Public Works in advancing the decentralisation programme. I also refer the Deputy to my answer to Questions Nos. 231, 232 and 233 on Wednesday, 10 December 2003.
