Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for coming to the House this morning for this debate. Now that we have voted to have a directly elected mayor in Limerick, it was my understanding it was to be in two years but I believe it may be three years. When does the Minister of State envisage us having the first directly elected mayor? As the Minister of State knows, I led the campaign on behalf of Fine Gael around both Limerick city and county. People were concerned about the powers the mayor will have. They also asked if transport will be included because transport is so relevant to both the city and county. The directly elected mayor in London has responsibility for things like the environment and driving business. Business is a really important opportunity for the mayor to drive forward. Having an economic driver for the city and county was one of the things I mentioned when I was going around asking people to vote for a directly elected mayor.

I also mentioned the mid-west region. While my colleagues in places like Clare may disagree with me, I believe a thriving region needs a thriving Limerick because it is right at the heart of the region. While the mayor needs enhanced powers, we also need to reform local government; they go hand-in-hand. We may also need to strengthen the councillors' powers.

Limerick will be the flagship for the other cities as it will be the first city to have this. In saying that, we need to get it right. I am anxious to work with the Minister of State. I will consult people in Limerick to hear their views. I know there will be an open door when I come back to the Minister of State and he will listen to those. It is important to get it right from day one especially as Limerick will be the first place with a directly elected mayor. I would like transport and the environment to come within the mayor's remit. I may also come back with one or two other requests.