Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State and everyone in his Department for all their work to get this historic legislation passed. For the first time in modern history, we will have a directly elected mayor. It is a huge opportunity for the people of Limerick and for all those who contest the first election. I wish them well.

As a Dub, I have huge ambition for our capital city. I believe very strongly in the power of a political mandate and political office to deliver for people in ways that matter in their daily lives. Dublin city would greatly benefit from having an office of directly elected mayor. I hope that is the next step in the legislative work. The Oireachtas committee examined the issue and there was good engagement on it. The citizens' assembly did its work. Dubliners deserve the opportunity to have their say on creating an office of directly elected mayor to represent and champion our great city. I hope the Minister of State will put the same energy into delivering for Dublin as he has put into doing so for Limerick. Well done to him on a great job.