Council Continues with Reform

Newry and Mourne and Down District Councils to Continue with Reform

Councillors from both Newry and Mourne and Down District Councils have re-affirmed their commitment to continuing with reform despite the Executive’s recent decision that their proposed merger will now not go ahead next year.

At a recent meeting of the Voluntary Transition Committee, Councillors from both Councils expressed their determination to continue with efforts that would identify possible opportunities for collaboration which could ultimately result in efficiencies and improvement in services for local businesses and local ratepayers.

Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Eamonn O Neill who chaired the meeting said, “Councillors are convinced that the significant work that has been undertaken to-date in preparing for the new Council should not be wasted and should be re-directed towards improving local services and providing better value for money”.

The Mayor of Newry & Mourne District Council, Councillor Mick Murphy echoed these comments and advised, “Work will now be undertaken to identify possible areas where both Councils can cooperate with each other and also where they can cooperate with other Councils and other government agencies across Northern Ireland”.

Councillors attending the Voluntary Transition Committee meeting on Tuesday 29 June 2010 also expressed concerns that the recent Executive decision has created more uncertainty for ratepayers and staff in both Council areas, and called on the Executive to provide as a matter of urgency, clarification as to whether both Councils will be merged at a future date.