Minister urges public to have their say on the local council

Councillors were tonight asked to encourage members of the public to play their part in shaping the final plans for the 11 new councils in their areas.

Environment Minister Sammy Wilson issued the call as he held a reception at Parliament Buildings for recently-elected Mayors and Chairs of most district councils, along with their Chief Executives.

The minister told guests he wanted to see local government and central government work effectively together in the future.

Mr Wilson said: “I am continuing with the commendable efforts of my predecessor, Arlene Foster, in working closely with the executive to implement the new vision for local government. The importance of central and local government working together in a true sense of partnership is key to this process.”

He added: “A strong, effective and efficient local government should continue to be our overriding aim and I look forward to working with you all towards that objective.”

Mr Wilson noted the work that already been taken forward in pushing forward the Review of Public Administration by the Strategic Leadership Board and the Policy Development Panels.

Notes to Editors

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