Published 02 December 2011 @ 15:28
The Northern Ireland Local Government Association has welcomed the decision by the Northern Ireland Executive to bring final clarity on the future of Local Government Reform.
Speaking in reaction to the announcement that the reform of local government offers the opportunity to reduce the number of councils in Northern Ireland from 26 to 11, Councillor Evelyne Robinson, President of NILGA stated:
“The announcement that the move to 11 new councils will be in place by 2015 provides us with the basis of a modernisation and work plan for which Councils have been anticipating. We have invested time, effort and resources into the reform programme, although the Executive had not previously reached agreement on boundaries. Essentially, the relationships and knowledge that were built up in the recent past can be revitalised; as we go forward elected members, staff and our shared impetus will be vital to success.
“Through the Improvement, Collaboration and Efficiency (ICE) Programme established by NILGA and SOLACE, councils have an opportunity to work together developing streamlined and more efficient ways of delivering services to the public; this is a key area for the local government sector given the current economic climate. ICE will not fund reform, the savings required to fund, a legislated for, comprehensive reform programme of this magnitude will not be delivered.
A detailed funding and resource plan that will ensure the delivery of the new 11 council model for Northern Ireland needs not only to be determined in partnership, but designed around local people, and delivered on time. This has happened in neighbouring jurisdictions, with a change fund and work plan agreed by the sector and central government. It must happen here in Northern Ireland.”
In closing, Councillor Robinson stated:
“Reform presents a huge challenge for local government, but the opportunity to deliver an efficient and effective modern local government with the increased powers necessary to deliver services which meet people’s needs now and into the future is an exhilarating prize. NILGA is ready and geared for this challenge; I call on the Minister to engage and work with us and the local government sector, because together we can deliver for our communities and ratepayers”.
ENDS