For the first time, progressive parties and Independents have come together to agree a programme for the running of Dublin City Council over the next five years.

Following last month's election, which returned a clear majority of left-wing Councillors to Dublin City Council, an agreement on mayoral appointments and general policy concerns was reached between Sinn Féin, Labour, Greens and some Independent Councillors.

Labour Councillor and SIPTU Organiser, Brendan Carr, said: "This is the first time there has been a left controlled council. It will reflect the clear concerns of the voters of Dublin.

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"The parties and individuals in the Dublin City Alliance share many core beliefs and the housing crisis will top the agenda, both in terms of assisting those who are homeless and seeking to increase the number of social housing units."

The agreement will also see the roles of Lord Mayor of Dublin and Deputy Mayor shared between members of the Dublin City Alliance. In early June, Independent Councillor Christy Burke was elected as Lord Mayor as part of the agreement with Sinn Féin's Larry O'Toole taking the position of Deputy Mayor.

Over the next five years the positions will be held on a proportional basis by Sinn Féin, Labour and Independent Councillors. There was a broad welcome for Burke's election as Mayor given his many years of service on the council for the citizens of the city.

During the centenary celebrations of the 1916 Rising, in 2016, the position of Lord Mayor will be held by a Sinn Féin representative. Sinn Féin with 16 Councillors is the largest party on Dublin City Council.

(CD/JP)