Reform Programme Implementation Structure

Local Government Reform Implementation
There are a number of things that must happen for the changes in local government to happen. These include:

• updating the policy and legislative framework within which local government operates
• ensuring local government is ready for delivering these new, improved services
• improving service delivery in a simple, consistent and cost-efficient manner to release resources to focus on front line service delivery

Structures
Work is well underway in preparation for local government reform with structures in place. This will ensure the change from 26 to 11 councils is a smooth process. The following boards and panels have been set up to work on different elements of the reform programme.

The Strategic Leadership Board (SLB), chaired by Edwin Poots, the Environment Minister, is leading the work on the reform programme. This is supported by three Policy Development Panels (PDPs).

These Panels are responsible for developing policies on issues such as human resources, community planning and performance management. Together with the SLB, they will ensure that the right legislation is in place for the new council structure.

The Regional Transition Coordinating Group (RTCG) has been set up to implement the policy decisions established by the SLB and the PDPs across the 11 new council areas.

The RTCG acts as the link between the SLB and the PDPs, and the Transition Committees (TCs) and Transition Management Teams (TMTs).

• Former Minister, Arlene Foster's Assembly Statement 31.03.08 (PDF, 84 KB)