Byrne co-opted into Costello council seat

Deborah Byrne has been formally co-opted to serve as the newest member of Dublin City Council.

The decision, ratified at last night’s Dublin City Council meeting, will see Byrne take the place of the retiring Joe Costello, a former Minister, Senator and TD who stepped down as Labour’s Councillor for Dublin’s North Inner City in July.

Costello said he was stepping down to give his successor on Dublin City Council the momentum to work with local constituents ahead of next summer’s local elections.

In paying tribute to Costello, Byrne said “I want to thank Joe Costello who has served this city with incredible commitment and dedication over the last 35 years. Joe has been a champion for Dublin’s North Inner City and I hope to continue that legacy as the newest Labour Councillor for our local communities in Dublin 1, 3 and 7, working with our local Senator Marie Sherlock at a national level.’’

Byrne, who is a professional musician, outlined her priorities for the remainder of her term, saying ‘’Dublin’s North Inner City is one of the most diverse areas of the country with comfort and deprivation existing side by side.”

“While there is enormous creativity in the inner city, significant challenges persist in dealing with our chronic housing shortage and dysfunctional waste management systems, issues I look forward to working on with my Labour colleagues.’’

‘’My number one priority as a Dublin City Councillor will be to address the dire lack of accessible and affordable childcare facilities for families in inner city Dublin, and seeking further investment in artistic spaces to encourage the vibrant arts and cultural scene for which Dublin is world-renowned.’

Byrne will remain in the seat until next year’s local elections, which are due to be held in June 2024.