Citizen’s Assembly votes to retain councils and recommends directly elected mayor

The Citizen’s Assembly has voted to retain the four Dublin local authorities and has also recommended that a directly elected mayor for Dublin be implemented sooner rather than later.

Senator Victor Boyhan, who backed the assembly’s decision said: “The final issue of a Dublin Mayor must be a decision for the Citizens of Dublin City and County and should not be forced on them by central government.”

“I am particularly encouraged by the fact that 94% of the Citizens Assembly members voted in favour of the question: “Should councillors’ salaries be more reflective of a full-time commitment.

“Cleary that response recognises the value and worth of our City and County Councillors,” he said.

At the Assembly’s final meeting on Saturday, members voted on recommendations which will be included in its final report to be sent to the Oireachtas.

Senator Victor Boyhan said he looked forward to considering all aspects of the report when it comes before the Oireachtas Committee on Local Governemnt of which he is a member.