Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 February 2024
209. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the precise function and responsibilities he has in cases where complaints are made to his Department of alleged breaches of the Local Government Act by senior local authority officials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7029/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraLocal authorities are constitutionally recognised, independent statutory bodies with their own democratically elected councils, and management and governance structures. The elected council has the primary oversight role in the governance of a local authority, and the chief executive is fully accountable to the council. Elected councils have extensive powers to request information, issue directions, and oversee the work of the chief executive. Ultimately, the council is responsible for appointing the chief executive and may suspend or instigate his or her removal from their position by resolution.
As Minister, my role is to ensure a framework of policy and legislation in relation to the local government system, including its structures, human resources, financing and broad oversight, as set out in the provisions of the Local Government Act 2001. Local authorities fulfil their various functions within that framework.
While I have some limited powers to examine matters in relation to functions conferred on me as Minister or in relation to the performance of functions of local authorities, it should not be necessary or appropriate for such powers to be exerted where there are sufficient powers available to the elected council and procedures in place under the Local Government Act 2001 (as amended) for a matter to be fully and appropriately considered at the local level.
