Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As we look to the future, there are a number of important local government reforms and policy initiatives under way which will further enhance local democracy and accountability. During the summer session, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage expects to publish a Bill providing for a directly-elected mayor with executive functions for Limerick City and County Council. The Bill will also provide for the possibility of plebiscites on directly-elected mayors with executive functions in other local authorities. The Dublin Citizens’ Assembly, which is to consider the type of directly-elected mayor and local government structures best suited for Dublin, will begin its work in April. In 2021, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage commenced a review of Putting People First - Action Programme for Effective Local Government in order to assess the implementation of the 2014 reforms across the local government sector. An assessment of municipal districts to determine the improvements required to enhance their operation is also under way.

I thank Senator Garvey for raising this issue. Councils and councillors take oversight issues very seriously. I understand that, over the years, the Association of Irish Local Government has been working hard to ensure that councillors are equipped and trained to fulfil this vital role.