There is no devolution of power

The Government has enacted legislation for what they describe as the most significant reform of local government since the foundation of the State. They promised greater devolution of powers from central government to local councils.

If the public believe this is happening, they are seriously mistaken.

Let me give just one small example: until this year, if a disabled person living in a council house applied to have a ramp fitted at their front door, or to have a stairs-lift installed (cost €1,000-€3,000), the application would go before a senior executive officer in the council, who would examine the application, clerk of works’ report or occupational therapist’s report, medical evidence, etc. The decision would then be made as to whether the works were necessary and beneficial to the tenant.