DUBLIN City Council has decided a memorial statue of the late Ronnie Drew will not be erected for at least 20 years, despite calls from fans and Lord Mayor Emer Costello to fast-track the project.

According to a spokesman for the city council, "no sculptural commemoration or monument should be accepted or commissioned until 20 years after the death of the individuals or event".

Musicians and politicians have reacted to the council's decision, saying an exception should be made for Drew and a proposal to put in place a memorial should be fast-tracked.

Singer-songwriter Eleanor McEvoy has said it is "bizarre" that no such memorial has been erected, a year after his death.

"You would think it would be something Dublin City Council would be keen to do. Ronnie exemplified certain Dublin qualities; he was the ultimate down-to-earth Dubliner. Twenty years is a ridiculous amount of time to have to wait.

"Even from a tourist point of view, like the statue of Phil Lynott, it would be something to exemplify a very important aspect of Irish history in that he was a music legend. I met Ronnie many times, and he was the most warm-hearted and funny man, while remaining grounded – not like some of the artists in the music industry at the moment."

Seán Smyth of traditional music band Lúnasa has also hit out at plans to delay the project.

"It is just disgraceful, especially when there is so much good will and gratitude towards the man. Ronnie Drew alerted so many other musicians to the existence of Ireland and Irish music. This memorial needs to be built; it would be a boost for everyone in these times," he said.

Singer Eleanor Shanley said: "He'll never be forgotten but it would be nice to commemorate him sooner rather than later."

Green TD Ciaran Cuffe has called on the council to fast-track previous proposals.

"Ireland should not have to wait 20 years for such an important memorial to be built. I attended the funeral of Ronnie Drew and it was both a sad and a joyful time. What he did for Ireland and Dublin in particular should not be underestimated, and I'd hate to see two decades go by before this is recognised."

Mayor of Dublin Emer Costello put the motion to the council last year. She was said to have been "annoyed" when she learned there was to be a 20 year wait.