After more than 20 years of partnership and collaboration, the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) and the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) have officially signed a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC).
The three-year Memorandum establishes a strategic partnership aimed at advancing mutual goals that support the interests of elected members and local government across the island of Ireland.
The agreement, signed on May 27, 2025, at the Game of Thrones Studio in Banbridge, encompasses three main objectives:
• Year One – Focused on “Ending Violence Against Women and Girls,” this year will prioritise sharing best practices, developing policies, and enhancing the capacity of local councillors to respond to emerging challenges in this area.
• Year Two – Concentrated on “Wellbeing,” this year aims to raise awareness about available support and information related to wellbeing, as well as opportunities for cross-border dialogue and shared learning events.
• Year Three – Under the theme of “Irish Sea Cooperation,” this year will focus on strengthening the collective voice of local government and building alliances to facilitate and shape future collaboration.
Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon, AILG President, stated, “This Memorandum of Collaboration marks a renewed and ambitious chapter in the long-standing relationship between AILG and NILGA.
“Our focus over the next three years – on ending violence against women and girls, promoting wellbeing, and enhancing Irish Sea cooperation – reflects our shared belief in the power of collaboration. By combining our knowledge, experience, and leadership across both Associations, we can amplify our collective impact and deliver lasting, meaningful change for local communities.
“I am honoured to sign this agreement as AILG President, and I look forward to deepening our partnership with NILGA as we work together to build a stronger, safer, and more inclusive future across this island.”
Cllr Alison Bennington, NILGA President, welcomed the announcement, stating, “For over 20 years, the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) and the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) have collaborated on several strategic initiatives. On behalf of NILGA, I am delighted to sign this Memorandum of Collaboration between our two Associations.
“Over the next three years, this partnership represents a significant opportunity for NILGA and AILG to combine our strengths and expertise to create a greater impact for the local government sector. By working together, we can leverage our complementary capabilities, share resources, drive innovation and secure funding in ways that benefit our elected members and the people and communities they diligently serve.”
The MoC between NILGA and AILG will take effect on June 1, 2025. This agreement demonstrates both associations’ commitment to fostering innovation, equity, and sustainability in partnership with local government over the next three years.
–ENDS–
Notes to Editor
A copy of the AILG & NILGA Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) is available to download from the AILG website – AILG & NILGA MoC
Joint Steering Group – NILGA & AILG Memorandum of Collaboration
The joint Steering Group includes elected representatives from both associations.
| Northern Ireland Local Government Association | Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) |
| Cllr Alison Bennington Cllr Matt Garrett Cllr Billy Webb Alderman Hazel Legge Cllr Carl Whyte | Cllr Kieran O’ Hanlon Incoming AILG President 2025-26 Incoming AILG Vice President 2025-26 Incoming AILG Executive Committee member 2025-26 Incoming AILG Executive Committee member 2025-26 |
Association of Irish Local Government (AILG)
AILG is the primary body proudly representing the democratically elected members and their member local authority. It is a networking, policy development and training resource for the elected members of Ireland’s thirty-one County and City Councils. Through regular interaction with other stakeholders in the local government environment, the AILG aims to ensure that the contribution of Ireland’s democratically elected Councillors is appreciated in Government Departments and throughout the full range of public agencies.
Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA)
NILGA is the Voice of Local Government in Northern Ireland. It represents the sector’s views on critical policy issues and national pay, promotes the role and successes of local government, delivers training for elected members and works with partners to secure the future sustainability and transformation of the sector. NILGA collaborates with the NI Assembly and Departments, regional, national and international bodies and other local government associations to support its work and enhance the role of NI local government.
For more information, please contact Elaine Lynch, AILG – e.lynch@ailg.ie
