Cork narrowly says no to directly-elected mayor 

Cork narrowly says no to directly-elected mayor 
Senator Jerry Buttimer speaking to the media after the result of the plebiscite for a directly elected Lord Mayor was announced in Cork at the City Hall. Picture Dan Linehan

CORK city had decided it does not want a directly elected Lord Mayor by a very thin margin.

The plebiscite that was run in conjunction with the local and European elections and a divorce referendum was defeated by 983 votes. 

City Hall returning officer Paul Moynihan made the declaration just before 4pm today.

The number of ballot papers cast was 68,682. The number of invalid papers amounted to 971. The valid poll was 67,711. Those in favour amounted to 33,364, while ‘no’ voters amounted to 34,347.

The polling was watched by Fine Gael representatives who accepted defeat shortly before counting finished.

Senator Jerry Buttimer (FG) said he felt a directly elected mayor would have been the right decision for Cork but he respects the vote of the people.

“It’s very disappointing. The margin was so close in the end that if we had got over the line, it would have been a wonderful result for the people of Cork. It’s disappointing in the context that Limerick voted yes. This is still the right thing to do for local Government in Cork,” he added.

Former city Lord Mayor and city council councillor Terry Shannon described Fine Gael’s campaign for a yes vote as “shambolic”, while Solidarity TD Mick Barry said the public feeling was this was a “job for one of the boys”.

More in this section

The offices of the National Lottery in Abbey Street, Dublin, Ireland. 'The spuds nearly went flying out the window': Cork syndicate collect lotto cheque for over €164k
Peep Hole in the door to a Prison Cell 'I hope this is a wake-up call' says judge as Cork shoplifter is jailed
'Uncertain and worrying time': Concern at Fota as positive bird flu cases shut park 'Uncertain and worrying time': Concern at Fota as positive bird flu cases shut park

Sponsored Content

Every stone tells a story Every stone tells a story
Want to know what Budget 2026 means for you and your pocket? Use KPMG's Budget calculator Want to know what Budget 2026 means for you and your pocket? Use KPMG's Budget calculator
Absolute Property – Over a quarter century of property expertise Absolute Property – Over a quarter century of property expertise
Contact Us Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited

Add Echolive.ie to your home screen - easy access to Cork news, views, sport and more