Local government reform smacks of political stroke

HOW many councillors does it take to change a government?

The question may well be asked in light of proposals to increase the number of elected representatives in the Dublin area for the local elections next year. At a time when the compliment of councillors nationally is being cut by 42%, the number in the greater Dublin area is due to rise from 130 to 183.

The changes are part of the Putting People First reform proposals being implemented by Environment Minister Phil Hogan. Some see the Dublin move as a political stroke.