Dublin and local democracy

Sir, – Over the summer, there have been many news reports on what should be done to make Dublin a better and safer place. Invariably these have been accompanied by “Dublin City Council said” or Dublin City Council should”. In nearly all these cases, I support the plea “that Dublin City Council would”.

In reporting these matters, reference is made to Dublin City Council not responding to these crises and indeed spokespeople for Dublin City Council are extensively quoted.

However, no distinction is made between the executive who have the power, and the elected councillors, whose role has been truncated by successive governments.

If The Irish Times seriously wants concerted political action and accountability from Dublin City Council, it needs to join me and others in seeking a reformed and enhanced local government system for our capital city. A directly elected mayor would be an addition, but without serious, administrative, political, financial and devolved power to the elected council, it would be largely pointless. June of next year will see local elections – we can make Dublin better. – Yours, etc,