When it comes to the city of Dublin, who exactly is in control? Right now, there is a sense that the city is in decline and there is nobody at the wheel. The programme for Government makes provision for a directly elected mayor but the concern is that by the time it becomes a reality, it will be too late. If we are to be effective in preserving our culture and maintaining the aesthetic and essence of the city, so that we no longer lose buildings of significance and see our city decline, is it not time for an Oireachtas-led task force to ensure the future of the city in the most immediate sense? Nobody seems to be in control at this time.

There is a Government commitment to establish a citizens' convention on the appropriate model of local government for Dublin. It was supposed to be set up when the Citizens' Assembly on Gender Equality was finished. As the latter has now completed its work, I anticipate we will have the new convention set up quite soon. It will be very exciting to have that discussion about what local government should look like, not just in Dublin city but in the county as well.

In regard to the functions the Deputy mentioned, most of them are matters for Dublin City Council rather than the Government. I understand his party is part of the controlling group on that council.