Second legal opinion sought on city refuse service

A special meeting of the Council was called last evening to discuss a motion by some councillors to reverse the decision to privatise the bin collection service.City Manager Brendan McGrath is proceeding with the plan and interested bidders have already responded to the tender proposal.The Manager informed councillors that the decision is an executive one and therefore out of the hands of councillors.He presented legal advice to back up his decision, however at last evening's meeting it was decided to seek a second legal opinion.Ten thousand customers have left the City Council refuse service in recent years, which is loss-making at present.Under a private operator, the waiver scheme would be protected until at least next year.

8 councillors voted in favour of getting more legal advice while 5 voted against.