The Government's decision to introduce a directly elected mayor of Dublin will deliver significantly strengthened leadership for the city and region, with enhanced accountability and a direct connection with the citizen. The mayor will primarily act as a strategic policy maker who will also work to integrate the activities of local government and the wider public service in and across Dublin. The mayor will be equipped with a suite of substantial powers across the functions of local government, and will have the authority and powers to deliver real leadership. The specifics of the mayor's responsibilities and relationship with the Dublin local authorities will be set out in forthcoming legislation.