Mayo councillors rally for local democracy in Seanad Eireann

Caoimhín Rowland

Mayo county councillors passionately addressed the critical issue of diminishing local democracy in Ireland during a sitting in Seanad Eireann.

Led by Cathaoirleach Michael Loftus, the representatives shed light on the increasing power disparity between councillors and civil servants, asserting that the latter now wields a disproportionate influence.

Loftus spoke on the demanding nature of the council position, saying that it has evolved into a full-time role without commensurate compensation.

"We are not paid a correct salary," he asserted, reflecting the growing discontent among councillors regarding the current state of affairs.

Christy Hyland, a Westport-based councillor, expressed his dismay at the decision-making process in large municipal district areas, revealing the challenges of voting on matters in Belmullet without sufficient understanding, and vice versa.

He attributed this predicament to a controversial policy implemented in 2014 by Phil Hogan, which saw the removal of town councils, a move Hyland described as "diabolical."

During the session, independent councillors Christy Hyland and Mark Duffy, alongside Fine Gael's Jarlath Munnelly, proposed a potential solution to the crisis.

They urged senators to consider reinstating town councils or exploring the establishment of "local borough" councils, aiming to restore a more effective and representative local governance system.

The debate also touched on a recent report commissioned by the Council of Europe, which positioned Ireland as a laggard in terms of local democracy on the global stage.

Christy Hyland expressed his frustration, stating, "With all due respect to Moldova, we're being compared to them."

Former Castlebar councillor and current Leader of the Seanad, Lisa Chambers, who opened the session and voiced her desire to see the report published promptly.

Stating that it should not be left to gather dust on a shelf. Chambers' call for action resonated with the councillors' plea for a more robust and accountable local governance structure in Mayo and across Ireland.