Madam, - Ireland has won high praise for its management of the presidency of the European Union - a tribute to the combined efforts of Ministers and civil servants. That success should compel us to review the proposals on decentralisation of government departments and other agencies.
The formation and monitoring of public policy generally involves widespread research and planning, constant dialogue and coordination between departments and close contact with Ministers and parliament. Besides, it entails regular consultation with professional advisers, other public authorities, international organisations and interest groups.
Imagine the chaos in trying to conduct such proceedings in the novel arena envisaged if, as proposed, sections of Departments were scattered among some 53 disparate locations. Why discard the incontrovertible administrative benefits of having so many institutions in close proximity in Dublin?
Let us strive to enhance the quality of public administration, not destroy it. If it is desired to bring some service "closer to the people", the obvious course is to develop a meaningful programme of devolution to local authorities. - Yours, etc.,
T. O'CONNOR, Churchtown, Dublin 14.