To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of how the transfer of powers for economic redevelopment, to new local councils, is likely to impact the community and voluntary sector.

At this time I am unable to make an assessment of how the transfer of powers for economic redevelopment to the new local Councils is likely to impact on the Voluntary and Community Sector. However, I have met with all the Councils to discuss the transfer of powers. I, and my Department are keen to support Councils to take on board their new powers and I consider that Councils are best placed to determine how to implement the powers and to maximise benefits for the Voluntary and Community Sector.