Proceed with caution over city boundaries

The Government recently appointed a committee to consider extending the boundary of Cork City. The census records suggest that they proceed with caution.

Between 1991 and 2011, the population of Cork City fell by 8,000, from 128,000 to 120,000. Over the same 20 years, the population of Cork County rose by 120,000 from 280,000 to 400,000.

Most of the growth in Cork county occurred in the suburbs just beyond the city limits. The city council wants to make a grab for those suburbs. That would double the city’s population. Could they deal with that?

Is the motive for expansion financial? Does the city see a windfall of commercial rates from the factories in Ringaskiddy? Do they really want to inherit the toxic legacy of Irish Steel? Are they ready to confront government policy on incineration?

Michael Mernagh

Raheens

Carrigaline

Co Cork