Major changes ahead for Kerry’s local politics if new report is implemented

By Alastair Tibbs, The Kerryman

The government’s new report on strengthening local political powers has been described as an ‘important’ first step by a Kerry councillor involved the process.

Councillor Jimmy Moloney said the recommendations would strengthen local democracy but cautioned that the challenge now is to see them implemented.

The Local Democracy Taskforce Report sets out almost 80 recommendations aimed at giving local councillors greater powers and ensuring decisions are made closer to the communities they serve.

One major change is the introduction of municipal councils, which are likely to be established in each of Kerry’s six Local Electoral Areas, with greater decision-making powers, functions and budgets.

As part of the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG), Cllr Moloney has been involved with the report and is a big advocate of rebalancing powers in favour of local authorities.

“I welcome the publication of this report, which provides a clear roadmap for strengthening local democracy in Ireland,” said Cllr Moloney.

“For the first time, we have a comprehensive set of recommendations to strengthen the role of elected members, enhance local decision-making and ensure local communities have a stronger voice in shaping the future of their areas.

“This isn’t about giving councillors more power for its own sake. It’s about ensuring the people local communities elect have the authority, supports and tools they need to deliver better outcomes for the communities they represent.”

The report also suggests improved supports for councillors, including enhanced administrative, secretarial and meeting aid, and greater devolution of functions to local government.

Timelines in the report’s implementation plan aim to have the legislation supporting most of the changes by 2028, with the new Municipal Councils to be a feature in the 2029 Local Elections.

Councillor Moloney said the recommendations recognise the important role councillors play in representing their communities and responding to local needs.

“Local councillors are the closest level of government to the people. Every day we work with our communities to improve local services, support local development and respond to the issues that matter most to residents,” said Cllr Moloney.

“The challenge now is to ensure these recommendations move beyond paper and are fully implemented.

“The publication of the Government’s Implementation Plan is an important first step, and I look forward to seeing meaningful progress in the months and years ahead.”