Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Feb 2003

Vol. 560 No. 3

Written Answers. - Local Government Elections.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

133 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government when he plans to introduce the legislation providing for the abolition of the dual mandate which he promised in his statement of 18 December 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2374/03]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

157 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if it is intended to repeal or amend those sections of the Local Government Act 2001 providing for the direct election of mayors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2375/03]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 133 and 157 together.

In my statement of 18 December last, I announced the Government's decision to end the dual mandate from 2004 and to discontinue plans for directly elected county-city cathaoirligh. I also indicated my intention to bring forward the necessary legislation early in the new year and this is reflected in the Government's legislative programme for the spring session published last week.

I envisage that the Local Government Bill 2003 will be published in the near future. The Bill will repeal those provisions of the Local Government Act 2001 which provided for the introduction of direct election of city-county cathaoirligh and also provide for ending the dual mandate.