Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We have the results of the three plebiscites on directly-elected mayors. I note the Minister of State, Deputy Phelan, is present. Limerick city voted by a slim majority to accept the proposal, while Cork and Waterford voted by an equally slim majority to reject it. Most of us here see the potential of directly-elected mayors and what they can bring to a reformed and invigorated local government system. What does the Minister of State propose to do next? The Government has committed to have a citizens' assembly in respect of Dublin. Would he consider having a wider citizens' assembly now or a separate one, whichever is the more appropriate? That would allow us to develop a strong, coherent model in order that people can understand what specific powers we want to devolve, as well as the relationship between the executive and a newly elected mayor. That was patently not the case during these plebiscites.

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