A former Mayor of Ennis says the government is finally realising its mistake in abolishing Ireland’s town councils.
In 2014, towns councils ceased to exist and this week, a bill has passed through the Dáil which could pave the way for their restoration.
Labour Senator Ged Nash today told Clare FM’s Morning Focus why his party has taken a U-turn on their stance on town councils.
The government abolished them ahead of the last local elections in 2014, citing money saving as one key factor in that decision.
This week saw Labour bring forward their bill calling for the restoration of the councils, which passed in spite of government opposition.
Former Ennis Mayor and town Councillor feels it’s now being accepted that this was a bad decision.
However, concern is being expressed in Kilrush about the fine details of Labour’s motion.
They are seeking the restoration of councils only in urban areas with a population of at least 5,000 resident and 1,000 or more dwellings, with a clearly defined urban centre.
Former Kilrush Fianna Fáil Councillor Tom Prendeville is concerned that this means his town would miss out, should they be brought back.
