Sir, - During the last general election campaign I asked all party canvassers for their reaction to the appointment of an elected overlord for the city of Dublin - the supposition being that, now the city has grown to be a large, vibrant capital, it needs a new infrastructure with a responsibility to the electorate such as exists elsewhere in the world. The present position of city manager no longer fulfills the expectation of the citizens, no matter how efficient the incumbent may be.
The only party to discuss the matter was the Green Party, but the overall impression was that no one had even considered such an eventuality, let alone had any coherent policy for the citizens and city of Dublin. It is interesting that the British Prime Minister has recognised the need for London and has set out his plans to revive the system abolished by the Tories to the detriment of the capital city.
The mayors of Paris and New York are elected by the citizens, with responsibilities from refuse collection and traffic to the fight against crime and the arts. The various city departments are thus in turn, responsible to him/her and everyone is kept very much on their toes. Such elections can be held on a three-yearly basis, giving the electorate the political muscle to either re-elect or choose a new candidate.
All that's needed is for a strong group of people to initiate the lobby organisation that will exert influence on the delegates in Dail Eireann. This beautiful city needs our voice and our votes. Let us show future generations that we cared enough to do something about it. - Yours, etc., Desmond Graham,
Collins Avenue East,
Dublin 9.