Published on: 14 November 2024
The AILG has today launched its General Election Manifesto, Building Stronger Local Government, which advocates for essential reforms and greater support for Councillors and local authorities across Ireland. In recent weeks, AILG has met with policy advisors and representatives from all political parties to present its comprehensive policy document, sharing AILG’s vision for the future of local government and outlining key sector priorities ahead of the upcoming General Election.
AILG’s manifesto builds on extensive research and findings from its recently commissioned independent research report by Maynooth University, calling for impactful changes to strengthen local government structures, expand Councillors’ roles and responsibilities, and increase funding and resources for elected representatives.
Key Recommendations include;
Strengthening Local Authority Structures
• Enhancing sub-county structures at Municipal District and Area Committee levels to enable Councillors to better oversee community issues, advocate for constituents, and play a more central role in local decision-making.
Expanding Council Powers
* Restoring and expanding powers lost in recent years, and reviewing section 149 of the 2001 Act, which defines that every act of the local authority, which is not a reserved function, is automatically an executive function.
* Enhancing local authority functions and responsibilities in areas such as oversight and accountability of services delivered at local level, as well as examining additional services that can be devolved at local level.
* Implementing recommendations from the Council of Europe Monitoring Report to promote accountability and effective governance.
Increasing Local Revenue Options
• Reviewing financing options for local authorities to include additional local revenue-raising powers for elected Councils.
Improving Councillor Supports
• Advocating for increased pay, allowances, and family-friendly measures to ensure that Councillor roles are accessible, sustainable, and representative. These supports are essential to attracting and retaining a diverse pool of candidates dedicated to public service at the local level.
Additionally, AILG’s manifesto emphasises aligning Ireland’s local government framework with EU standards, promoting autonomy and cross-border cooperation among local authorities. Other recommendations include expanded CPD training and education for Councillors, strengthening resources for AILG, and enhancing support for gender, diversity, and accessibility in local government.
“Our manifesto is a blueprint for a stronger, more effective local government system that can address the most pressing issues facing our local communities,” said AILG President Cllr. Kieran O’Hanlon. “By empowering Elected Councils and providing vital supports for our Councillors, we can ensure that local representatives have the resources, authority, and support needed to drive meaningful change at the community level.”
The AILG will continue engaging with political parties and the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage over the coming weeks and months ahead to prioritise these critical issues in the next programme for government
ENDS
An Cumann Rialtas Áitiúil na hÉireann
Association of Irish Local Government (AILG)
For Further Information or Media Enquiries
Elaine Lynch, AILG
E: e.lynch@ailg.ie | M: (+353) 87 347 02 74
T (+353) 1 6106100
Email: info@ailg.ie
Website: ailg.ie
Twitter: @AILGIRE
