A total of 744 local representatives on 80 town councils across the Republic are likely to be dispensed with before the next elections in 2014, among them Tramore, Dungarvan, Carrick-on-Suir and Lismore Town Councils.
In Waterford, the abolition of 36 local council seats, coupled with the likely merger of the City and County Councils, will result in a hugely changed political landscape that will offer many challenges.
Environment Minister Phil Hogan (right) is said to be of the opinion that there are too many councillors costing the country money that could be best spent elsewhere.