The Chair of Clare’s Social Housing Committee fears local authorities could be made irrelevant if their powers continue to be diminished.
A new Council of Europe report has described Ireland as “one of the most centralised countries in Europe”, citing local authorities’ limited decision-making powers, insufficient financial resources and restricted autonomy as concerns.
The role of local councils has recently been questioned by many representatives in this county in light of the issuing of a government directive ordering the rezoning of twenty areas previously designated for residential use in the Clare County Development plan.
Clare Social Housing Committee Chair and Shannon Councillor Gerry Flynn believes that if local councillors are stripped of authority, their roles become obsolete.
You can listen to the full interview below.
