Addressing members of the Northern Ireland Local Government Association, the Minister said that this was the beginning of a process which would create a strong and dynamic local government.
The Minister said: “Our vision is to create communities that are vibrant, healthy, prosperous, safe and sustainable and have the needs of all citizens at their core. Central and local government are partners in this process and we have taken the first significant step in strengthening local government in Northern Ireland.”
Responding to comments from NILGA, the Minister highlighted: “There are challenges ahead for both central and local government, if the full potential of our vision is to be met. The strengthening of local government will be a process over time and the transfer of functions, and the increased role for local government, represents a start in the process to ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of services to all citizens.”
Notes to Editors:
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