The Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan T.D., today welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government that he intends merging Limerick City and County Councils into one integrated local authority in time for the 2014 Local Elections.
Minister Noonan said:
“This decision will not only give a new impetus to Local Government in Limerick but will have a significant economic benefit for both the city and the county. Limerick is a key gateway city and the merger of the two local authorities will position the city for the economic advances which are necessary for the benefit of the people of Limerick.”
The Minister continued:
“Significant economic regions are driven by thriving cities and the hinterland of Limerick city will now be sufficiently large and have the significant economic clout to drive the region forward. Minister Hogan has followed closely the recommendations of the Brosnan Report and his step by step approach to the merger of the two local authorities by 2014 is to be welcomed.
The integration of key services in the city and the county will give rise to significant savings. These savings should be used in the first instance to reduce the rates paid by the retail sector.”
The Minister concluded by saying:
“I have no doubt that the new initiative will provide the impetus for a more prosperous Limerick, which will be to the benefit of all residents in the City and the Council.”
