Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State used the word "focused". This amendment contains a simple request. The Minister of State says that he agrees with the spirit of the amendment and is on record on local media, including local radio, speaking in favour of the mayor driving regeneration projects. I do not doubt his commitment to that and I do not think he wants to change his position on that. Why would he? His simple message is that it is all great and is already catered for but if that is the case, why oppose the amendment? What the Minister of State is doing today is opposing this amendment. Let is be clear about what he is opposing. He is opposing making the mayor responsible for the implementation and management of regeneration projects in the Limerick City and County Council area. That is what the amendment seeks and the Minister of State is opposing it. He does not feel it is needed. I believe it is needed, as do many city and county councillors, many members of the Chamber of Commerce, many business people and many of those involved in third-level education in Limerick. Experts in planning and local government who have looked at this have some reservations about it.

As I said earlier, I have tabled three amendments. Two relate to joint policing, an issue we will deal with shortly, and this one relates to regeneration.This proposal is not unreasonable. I am surprised the Minister of State is not accepting it. I do not understand that. The narrative is clear, which I set out to ensure was the case. I did not come in here with 20, 30 or 40 amendments. Having consulted with the people of Limerick, I chose to focus on two issues. The Minister of State has had his say on this proposal and we have had a relatively robust and good exchange on it. I do not accept his view and I will press the amendment.