It’s hoped planned reforms to the structure of local authorities will result in improved budgets and enhanced spending in Clare towns and villages.
It comes as the Department of Local Government has signalled its intention to introduce municipal councils before the end of the decade.
The findings of the Local Democracy Taskforce , which have recently been published, promise one of the most significant overhauls of local government in over a decade.
In 2014, Ireland’s 80 town councils were abolished, dramatically reducing the number of elected representatives nationwide, with Clare losing civic authorities in Ennis, Kilkee, Kilrush and Shannon.
These were replaced by the current Municipal District model, but councillors have long argued that public representation and budgetary decisions in larger areas have been affected as a result.
Shannon Fine Gael Councillor Tony Mulcahy says his town has been particularly challenged.
Under the new proposals, municipal councils would be introduced on time for the next local elections in 2029, however it’s not yet known if this will increase the number of elected representatives or if it will simply give councillors more power.
The local authority taskforce has promised more financial autonomy for councillors and to devolve more functions from central government to local representatives.
Clonlara Independent Councillor Michael Begley says while the devil will be in the detail, broader powers would be welcomed.
You can listen to the full interview below.
