Teething problems and tensions: Limerick’s first directly elected mayor battles to deliver change

After a seven‑hour meeting that left him unwell, accusations of 'hostility' from councillors, and a major setback to his flagship housing plan, John Moran reflects on the growing pains of being Ireland’s first directly elected mayor — and why he refuses to quit

John Moran after his election as mayor of Limerick in June 2024. 

Limerick mayor John Moran expected there would be teething problems when he became the first directly elected mayor in the country. 

In February came what he described as the “lowest point” since his election. Mr Moran accused some councillors of being “hostile” towards him as he detailed what happened during a seven‑hour meeting, during which he became unwell.