RUMOUR that the government is to cut funding to local authorities by 10%, was raised by city manager Tom Mackey at a recent meeting, where it emerged that while the city coffers were in good nick, developers were finding it difficult to source loans. Responding to a query from Cllr Pat Kennedy, Mr Mackey warned that if government plans are accurate, it will result in services being cut.
“However, the financial position of this council is sound. We have in excess of €300m from the government, received over a period and given this, we have a role to play to see that the regeneration projects are not delayed – this is an area of commitment”.
Mr Mackey’s comments came as councillors called for a special meeting to update them on future plans to stimulate the local economy, as well as plans for the Opera Centre, vacant sites in the city centre and the likelihood of water charges being introduced..
Declaring himself “disappointed” by recent remarks of Limerick Chamber chief executive, Maria Kelly, “castigating us here in City Hall because she is hitting her head off a wall,” Cllr Joe Leddin commented: “We here are very much an open door for everyone”.
Calling for a meeting as soon as possible, he added:
“There are people with money who are willing to invest in this city but the question must be asked, where are we in relation to attracting in significant investment – we must have a special meeting to discuss this and to ascertain what exactly is the state of play in relation to the Opera Centre development”.
Declaring himself “very doubtful about grandiose notions for Patrick Street and Rutland Street, Cllr Kennedy described the Opera Centre development as no more than “just pie in the sky.
“We were led up the garden path in relation to the Opera Centre – it’s a disgrace – there are no plans and there’s been no consultation – we must be updated in relation to the vacant sites.
“Some of the proposals put forward by the Chamber of Commerce are good but some are not legally feasible. We should arrange a meeting with the Chamber and other business organisations before the Budget is prepared by the city manager… we must deal with the present, rather than going back 1,000 years in history”.
In relation to stimulating the economic climate, Mr Mackey said: “We’d all like to take measures to improve the economic life of the city but the reality is that most developers are finding it very difficult to find money for developments.
“We have the sites but the availability of people with capital is not good.
“As for Patrick Street and Rutland Street, we are mindful that unfortunately, this area is a victim of the economic situation and as for property owned by this council, we certainly can discuss this and deal with it confidentially and in camera”,
Describing the manger’s comments as “inadequate,” Cllr Kennedy referred to the vacant property beside the city’s bus and rail station.
“This is a totally derelict area and it’s a disgrace that the council is not doing more in relation to it. There are derelict sites in this city that could be used – we must discuss this fully and explore the possibilities in a meeting, as soon as possible”.
