Fintan Warfield (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I send apologies on behalf of Senator Gavan, who cannot be here, but I know he will be here with our amendments next week or the week after that. This is a hugely important matter for the people of Limerick. This could have been a Bill that offered meaningful reform of local government and local government in Limerick with real powers and real influence but it does not. What is offered is a ceremonial position and a ceremonial mayor. I cannot imagine any other local authority in our State aspiring to this reform.

In response to Sinn Féin, the Taoiseach said: "There is, quite frankly, some bureaucratic resistance from certain Departments - not mine - when it comes to the delegation and devolution of functions". This is the Government and Departments have Ministers. I wonder who is in control. If the Government really believed in local government and devolution, it would make sure that the necessary powers were devolved. Instead the opportunity for a seismic shift from our overly centralised government, which is one of the most centralised governments in Europe, has been squandered.

There has even been a lethargic attitude and approach on the part of the Government, which has meant that this Bill moved at such a glacial pace. The people of Limerick voted for this Bill back in May 2019. At least it is finally here and Sinn Féin welcomes that fact but I remind the House that the people of Limerick voted for this in May 2019. What was sold to the people of Limerick at that time is not reflective of what is in this Bill.

My colleague and comrade, Senator Gavan, will bring forward a number of amendments next week or the week after on behalf of Sinn Féin but if we want other areas and local authorities to move towards directly elected mayors, the devolved powers have to be specified in this Bill. Right now, the Bill falls short of real change in local government. It is a much-diluted version of what the people hoped for in empowering local government in Limerick. I do not know any other local authority that would want or strive for the current proposal. Regrettably, Senator Gavan cannot be here but he will be here to present Sinn Féin's case and our amendments. Luimneach abú.