MINISTER for Local Government, James Browne, last week chaired the second Limerick Mayoral and Government Consultative Forum in the Custom House in Dublin.
The forum was attended by Minister for Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment, Peter Burke, Minister of State for Planning and Local Government, John Cummins, Minister of State with special responsibility for Older People and Housing, Kieran O’Donnell, and Minister of State with special responsibility for Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer.
The forum considers making recommendations in relation to issues arising from the establishment of the office of Mayor or the operation of the act bringing the position into being, and additional functions to be conferred to facilitate the effective operation of the office of Mayor.
It also examines the impact for Limerick of proposed legislation or government policy, any other matter relating to Limerick City and County Council, and the funding of the Council for the purpose of these matters.
According to Mayor John Moran, the agenda of the meeting last Thursday reflected the critical priorities for Limerick – housing, innovations, sustainable transport, and regional growth.
Limerick’s first directly-elected Mayor said he was privileged to attend the consultative forum alongside national and regional leaders.
“Together, we are shaping a future that is inclusive, forward-thinking and rooted in the strengths of our city and the region,” Mayor Moran enthused.
Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, James Browne TD, said the meeting allowed for valuable exchange between central government and Mayor Moran on a range of issues in the context of Limerick, namely housing, transport and regional growth.
“The achievement of balanced regional development is a key priority of this government and is at the heart of Project Ireland 2040. I look forward to discussions on the vision for Limerick in this overarching context,” Minister Browne added.
Limerick TD and Minister of State with special responsibility for Older People and Housing, Kieran O’Donnell, said after the meeting that participants had engaged with the Mayor on a range of policy priorities that seek to enhance the growth and development of Limerick and the lives of its people.
