Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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243. To ask the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Local Government given that Ireland has by far the highest number of residents to councillor ratio of any EU country, that he will consider increasing the number of local councillors nationally as part of the next review of local electoral areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54060/25]

John Cummins (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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The issue of councillor numbers is one which is included in the terms of reference of the Local Democracy Taskforce. The Taskforce was established in June 2024, and it is currently progressing with its work schedule with the aim of delivering recommendations to Government in the first half of 2026.

In relation to councillor numbers, the Taskforce has been asked to “examine how the current number of councillors is determined and explore proposals for a framework for amendments including taking into consideration population growth since the 2014 reforms and the consequent need for an increase in the numbers of councillors to ensure appropriate representation of citizens”.

Taking an evidence informed approach, the Taskforce will finalise a programme of recommendations for the reform and strengthening of local government in Ireland, which will include recommendations in relation to the framework for determining councillor numbers; these will be considered by Government following reporting by the Taskforce.