Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister's statement that he proposes to invite the mayors and chairpersons to a meeting in the Custom House in July to discuss how this issue can be taken forward. I believe it is fundamentally important to Dublin city that a directly elected mayor role be developed. That was the view of the citizens' forum, which included elected councillors, held in the Mansion House by former Lord Mayor Oisín Quinn. As I said earlier, three of the local authorities voted overwhelmingly in favour of a plebiscite. The only local authority not in favour was Fingal County Council, whose legitimate right in that regard I acknowledge. However, one of the fundamental groups not consulted was the citizens of Dublin. Citizens were not given the opportunity to vote for or against a plebiscite. A referendum on another matter is to be held next year. Knowing the work rate of the Minister, Deputy Hogan, I believe he is well capable of achieving consensus on the holding of the plebiscite on a directly elected Lord Mayor. This would require only minor amendment of the relevant legislation or the holding of a convention in Dublin through which we can engage with citizens, small and medium sized businesses and local groups on the drafting of a proposal.

A directly elected mayor of Dublin would have a democratic mandate. From that democratic mandate power could be built. As I said, Dublin is competing on an international basis for inward investment. A directly elected mayor for Dublin, representing 1.3 million people, will allow Dublin to compete on an international scale in attracting foreign direct investment into the city. We face enormous challenges in terms of sustainable development, employment, arts, culture, housing and flood protection in Dublin city. These issues can be best addressed by a directly elected mayor for the city.

I welcome that the Minister proposes to issue an invitation to the chairpersons of the four councils. I look forward to that process being built upon quickly so that a plebiscite on the election of a mayor for Dublin city can take place in the middle of next year. I believe this will add to the economic recovery not only of Dublin city but the country. It should not be forgotten that more than 50% of all taxation raised is raised from within in the greater Dublin city area. Anything that allows us to attract more foreign direct investment must be welcomed.

I again welcome the Minister's commitment and look forward to an engagement with the citizens of Dublin on the issue of the holding of a plebiscite on a directly elected mayor.

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