Policy on Local Government.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 December 2007

Wednesday, 19 December 2007

Ceisteanna (359)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

404 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in the wake of the abolition of the dual mandate, his attention has been drawn to the reluctance on the part of some local authority officials to adequately respond to issues and queries raised by Members of the Oireachtas; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that this is in stark contrast to the solemn commitment (details supplied); if he will commit himself to meeting the growing information and accountability deficit by way of reply to parliamentary questions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35992/07]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

It is a matter for each local authority to deal with requests for access to information by a parliamentary representative as expeditiously as possible and in accordance with a proper level of customer service. In this regard local authorities are required to put in place arrangements to ensure that systems, procedures and time frames equivalent to those used by them in relation to correspondence from local authority members also apply in respect of parliamentary representatives.

My Department has gathered information from local authorities on the practical application of the arrangements for the supply of specified information to Oireachtas members under the Local Government Act 2001 (Section 237A) Regulations 2003. Based on the information received, I understand that local authorities are, for the most part, complying with these arrangements. I am, however, reviewing this matter and, if necessary, will issue supplementary guidance to local authorities reminding them of the need to provide a reasonable level of service for Oireachtas members and facilitate them in carrying out their work on behalf of local communities.