Mr. Colm Ward:

Regarding safety and the quality of life in the public realm, resources have not been an issue. Irrespective of the structure that manages delivery of and oversees those services, it will still require staffing, which is a challenge for all local authorities. The engagement with the contractor is necessary as well. Whatever level the decision-making is at, it will still encounter those operational issues, so it is important to figure that out.

I second the point made on affordable housing and the funding mechanisms. They are there, as are the structures and willingness. There is an awful lot of affordable housing delivery in the pipeline that will start translating into homes on the ground for people. However, the challenge is whether they will be impacted by a directly elected mayor overseeing it or not. It is questionable.