The future of local government in Northern Ireland is digital. We are on the brink of a transformation that will reshape how councils and councillors engage with and serve their communities, providing services that are faster, smarter, and more inclusive.
Digital transformation is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. This is more than a technological upgrade; it's a fundamental reimagining of governance aimed at empowering citizens, improving efficiency, and building resilient, future-ready councils.
Delivered as part of the NILGA Regional Programme for Elected Member Development. The webinar focused on how Microsoft Copilot can support councillors, streamlining daily tasks while promoting responsible use.
Our digital updates are developed to keep councillors informed about the latest advances in various areas. These updates include important news, information about upcoming and ongoing local and national initiatives, essential policy changes, key dates, and access to relevant training opportunities. By delivering timely and comprehensive information in a convenient digital format, we aim to support councillors in their decision-making, community engagement, and ongoing professional development.
NILGA and The Open University have launched a initiative designed to support the development and enhancement of skills for elected members. This initiative is backed by the Department for the Economy and is hosted on OpenLearn, The Open University’s free learning platform.
On 13 May, NILGA and Fibrus hosted a webinar for councillors on full fibre broadband rollout in Northern Ireland, focusing on rural connectivity, community impact and how elected members can raise awareness and support uptake.
This guide is structured to provide councillors with key information on digital connectivity. It explores the main issues and challenges facing our local areas and outlines the range of uses of connectivity. Finally, it sets out the vital role councillors can play in this area.
BT Presentation to NILGA Executive - Cyber Security - May 2026 (Presentation slides with notes)
BT Presentation to NILGA Executive - Cyber Security - May 2026 (Video)
Provided by the Local Government Association (LGA), AI Unpacked is a series of short explainer videos on artificial intelligence (AI) designed to provide officers and councillors who are new to the topic with a starting point for understanding and engaging with AI concepts.
The first video defines artificial intelligence and its role in our daily lives. You'll learn about different types of AI systems, from narrow AI focused on specific tasks to more general-purpose applications, helping you understand how AI can support council services.
Discover practical applications of AI in local government, from managing and analysing data to improving service delivery. The video explores how AI can help with tasks like automated text analysis, speech recognition, and image identification, while highlighting important considerations for implementation.
LGA AI Unpacked - More explainer videos on AI
