LIMERICK City Centre is the focus of newly-elected Cathaoirleach of the Metropolitan District Cllr Daniel Butler’s term.
After beating Social Democrats councillor Shane Hickey-O’Mara by a vote of 14-6 to secure the prestigious post at this Monday’s Annual General Meeting of the Metropolitan District, Cllr Butler quickly brought the conversation round the Council chamber to the future of the city.
“Housing remains the most pressing issue we face, and we can all agree to that. But I want to be clear, my priority during my term, beyond housing, is the heart of our city – Limerick City Centre,” Cllr Butler explained.
The Fine Gael man told the Council chamber that “we all know the challenges but we also know the potential. Our city centre must be a place where people want to live, they want to work and spend time, a place that is vibrant, safe, and welcoming and full of life.”
He added that “when we talk about a modern, thriving city, we’re talking about a place that puts people at its heart, a city that’s walkable, green, well connected, culturally rich, and inclusive. A place where small businesses and local enterprise can flourish, where public spaces are alive with activity, and where people can feel proud to call it home.”
“Having listened closely to many motions and questions and comments raised by youth councils over the last year, it’s clear to me that the future of our city is a shared priority.
“With that in mind, I intend to propose that the city centre be made a standing agenda item at every Metropolitan meeting during my term. This will ensure that our discussions are structured and efficient, but most importantly, that this vital issue gets the consistent focus and attention it deserves.”
Despite the defeat of her party colleague in the vote, Social Democrats councillor Elisa O’Donovan welcomed Cllr Butler’s words and deemed the move very positive and proactive.
Labour’s Cllr Joe Leddin deemed Cllr Butler’s proposal “a very good idea” before hitting out at the lack of support for the Metropolitan District from the Council executive.
Fine Gael councillor Sarah Kiely was also appointed Leas Cathaoirleach of the Metropolitan District AGM this week.
