Taoiseach issues update on executive mayor plan for Limerick

AN TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar has reiterated the government's hope that Limerick voters go to the polls to elect an executive mayor in June.

The maiden election for the high-profile new office is due to take place at the same time as the local elections on Friday, June 7.

This would also align with the European elections taking place at the same time.

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The issue was up for debate in Dáil Eireann this week and Clare TD Michael McNamara said: "We need to make sure the office is properly created."

Mr Varadkar said: "I assure Deputy McNamara that we are very keen to have the mayor of Limerick Bill enacted. We want to have the election in June. I believe the office will be a success. I want to make sure it is well funded, is a success and becomes an example for other counties and city regions to follow. As is often the case with devolution, it is important to set up the office and we can then add further powers at a later date. That was done with devolution in other areas."

Mr McNamara expressed fears the debate over the role's powers will be "guillotined" - in other words, curtailed - by government.

But the Fine Gael leader insisted: "Adequate time will be provided for the debate. I am sure of that."