Sinn Féin Back Directly Elected Dublin Mayor

Sinn Féin has announced its backing of the proposal for a directly elected Dublin mayor.

"Sinn Féin has long argued for directly elected mayors and we believe that this is an important part of the much needed reform of local government in the State," said former mayor for South Dublin County and Sinn Féin Councillor Cathal King.

Adding: "Giving the people of Dublin an opportunity to elect their own mayor will undoubtedly strengthen the democracy of local government.

"The Mayor would serve a term of 5 years with the first election taking place in conjunction with the next local government elections in 2019.

"Sinn Féin would call for significant executive power to be devolved from central government to the Mayor's office. The Mayor should have a number of clearly defined executive powers including transport; major roads; waste management and tourism.

"The Mayor would also have responsibility for strategic policy development in a number of areas including economic development, environment, housing and planning.

"The Mayor would be held to account by a regional assembly made of six Councillors from each of the four Dublin local authorities appointed using the Group selection system. The Assembly would also assist the Mayor in the development of strategic policy while having a role, with the local authorities, in the appointment of the Directors of Service.

"The funding and staffing of the Mayor's office will predominantly come from existing central government and state agencies' resources.

"Sinn Féin Councillors will vote in support of the holding of a referendum to be held on the 23rd of May to allow for the people of Dublin to take the decision in relation to a directly elected mayor.

"The party will advocate a Yes vote if a referendum is held."

(MH/JP)