Why has the race for Limerick mayor not begun?

In recent years Limerick city and county has recorded some of the highest levels of deprivation in the country. This, and other issues, need to be addressed by a directly-elected mayor chosen by the people of Limerick, writes Anne Cronin

Limerick has a multitude of challenges, including soaring housing waiting lists, a staggering under-delivery on new homes, a pervasive issue with dereliction in the city centre and older neighbourhoods, as well as some of the highest residential and commercial vacancy rates in the country.

As the clock counts down to June 6, when Limerick chooses Ireland’s first directly-elected Mayor, where are the candidates? Is the final legislation — with watered-down mayoral powers — deterring potential candidates? 

Many Limerick citizens are growing increasingly concerned that this potentially transformative moment will be another missed opportunity for the county. While local election candidates are all nominated, agreed, and beginning to canvas, there is still no live race for the office of Mayor.