asked the Minister for Local Government if it is intended to appoint a city manager for Waterford city; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Waterford City Manager.
156.
Pending a decision on the proposal contained in the White Paper on Local Government Reorganisation in relation to Waterford city I feel that it would not be appropriate to proceed with the making of a new appointment of city manager.
Would the Minister not agree that as Waterford is a very large city—indeed the next city to Europe—and that its port is significant in the national economy, it warrants the appointment of a city manager, an immediate appointment in view of the development taking place within the city of which the Minister is well aware?
I do not accept the argument made by the Deputy at all.
The Minister does not recognise Waterford as a large city?
I do not recognise the need for a separate city manager in Waterford.
Therefore the Minister is not going to appoint a city manager?
I have indicated my intentions, as the Deputy will see if he reads the White Paper, on Local Government Reorganisation. The city of Dublin is much larger than Waterford and that city and county operate quite successfully under one manager.
Will the Minister see to it that the manager appointed for the town area of the city and county will reside in Waterford city?
That is a separate question.
I have no intention of directing people as to where they shall live. We live in a democracy.