Limerick mayor legislation
Deputy Quinlivan complained that promised legislation for a directly elected mayor of Limerick had still not appeared. The Minister of State said a memo and legislation were going to Cabinet that week and that timing was for Cabinet to decide.
In May 2019, the people of Limerick voted on the issue of a democratically elected mayor. Four years later we have no sign of legislation, despite being promised on a number of occasions that we would see it. That election was supposed to take place in July 2021. Obviously, I understand that Covid delayed that, but four years later we do not see even the legislation or what will be done. The Bill was included in the priority legislation for drafting and publication document in autumn 2022, but like other dates, that has been missed. When I raised the issue in September, the Green Party leader told me that "it is important we get that choice to the Limerick people quickly and use that as an example that can inspire other cities". Unfortunately, again, we have not seen anything in that regard. When will we see the legislation? Obviously, we will not see it before the summer recess. We were promised we would. The Taoiseach himself told me over a year ago that he thought there was a problem with interdepartmental arguments going on. Is that still the case? When will we see the legislation and, more importantly, when will the people of Limerick vote?
Comment on this
A memo for Government and the legislation is going for the Cabinet's consideration this week. It will have to consider both. The timing of the election is entirely a decision for the Cabinet.
We are honouring our commitment to the people of Limerick. A plebiscite was held. The legislation and the amendment has gone to Cabinet this week.