Public dispute over merger ‘will damage Cork'

Divisions look set to continue over the controversial proposal to merge Cork’s city and county councils — a plan to be brought to Cabinet tomorrow by Environment Minister Alan Kelly.

Cork County Council chief executive Tim Lucey warns in today’s Irish Examiner about the damage being done by public statements opposing the merger, to Cork’s international reputation and the future for businesses and prospective investment.

However, as he does so, another Government party TD is adding his voice to those expressing reservations about the plan, which emerged from the committee established by Mr Kelly to examine the future of local government in Cork.