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21/10/2009
NI Council Reduction 'On Course'
Short term costs associated with the restructuring of Northern Ireland's councils are outweighed by the long term savings, the Environment Minister has said.
Edwin Poots, updating the Assembly on the reform of local government, said he was "absolutely committed" to the May 2011 deadline for transition.
Under the plans, the number of local authorities in the province will be reduced from 26 to 11.
A short period of consultation on the economic appraisal for the reorganisation programme has now been launched.
"We are making real progress and the publication of the economic appraisal demonstrates an important step forward in this process," said Mr Poots.
"This is a uniquely challenging process and I recognise that change on this scale does not happen overnight or without associated costs.
"The economic appraisal clearly demonstrates that the long term gains quickly outweigh these implementation costs if we push ahead and embrace wholesale change."
Minister Poots said he projected a saving of £438million over a 25-year period.
Views have been sought from MLAs, local government and other interested stakeholders on the report, before the end of November.
"In this harsh economic climate efficiency and savings are everyone’s number one priority. This is precisely why a programme that demonstrates effectiveness and value for money is even more relevant now than it was 18 months ago," said the Minister.
(PR/BMcC)
Edwin Poots, updating the Assembly on the reform of local government, said he was "absolutely committed" to the May 2011 deadline for transition.
Under the plans, the number of local authorities in the province will be reduced from 26 to 11.
A short period of consultation on the economic appraisal for the reorganisation programme has now been launched.
"We are making real progress and the publication of the economic appraisal demonstrates an important step forward in this process," said Mr Poots.
"This is a uniquely challenging process and I recognise that change on this scale does not happen overnight or without associated costs.
"The economic appraisal clearly demonstrates that the long term gains quickly outweigh these implementation costs if we push ahead and embrace wholesale change."
Minister Poots said he projected a saving of £438million over a 25-year period.
Views have been sought from MLAs, local government and other interested stakeholders on the report, before the end of November.
"In this harsh economic climate efficiency and savings are everyone’s number one priority. This is precisely why a programme that demonstrates effectiveness and value for money is even more relevant now than it was 18 months ago," said the Minister.
(PR/BMcC)
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16 August 2005
Council boost for local economic development projects
Belfast City Council is making £300,000 available to community organisations to help improve employability and create better economic conditions in areas of need.
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Belfast City Council is making £300,000 available to community organisations to help improve employability and create better economic conditions in areas of need.
13 January 2004
NI Economic Research Institute swings into operation
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26 June 2023
Increased Support For Families On Universal Credit
Families receiving Universal Credit (UC) will be able to claim back more of their childcare costs from 28 June. The maximum amount that can be claimed is due to increase from June 28, meaning families will be able to claim up to 85% of childcare costs. For a single child, childcare support will increase from £646.35 up to £950.
Increased Support For Families On Universal Credit
Families receiving Universal Credit (UC) will be able to claim back more of their childcare costs from 28 June. The maximum amount that can be claimed is due to increase from June 28, meaning families will be able to claim up to 85% of childcare costs. For a single child, childcare support will increase from £646.35 up to £950.
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
