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13/03/2008
Deal On Super-Councils?
A political compromise now looks likely as the Northern Ireland Executive looks set to agree the number of new 'super-councils' to emerge as part of their review of public administration in Northern Ireland.
It is expected that during discussions at Stormont today that a Sinn Fein and DUP-backed compromise of 11 new councils will be agreed.
The current 26-council system dates back to the 1970s but was first tipped for change after an in-depth review recommended the largest reform in local government for over three decades.
The then Secretary of State, Peter Hain, was then fixed on cutting back from 26 to just seven 'super' councils - a figure now likely to rise to the agreed 11.
Sinn Fein initially supported the plan but the main unionist parties felt that opting for seven super councils would lead to the loss of local identity and preferred the option of a 15 council model.
An announcement of the agreed 11 super-council deal is expected shortly.
(VB/JM)(BMcC)
It is expected that during discussions at Stormont today that a Sinn Fein and DUP-backed compromise of 11 new councils will be agreed.
The current 26-council system dates back to the 1970s but was first tipped for change after an in-depth review recommended the largest reform in local government for over three decades.
The then Secretary of State, Peter Hain, was then fixed on cutting back from 26 to just seven 'super' councils - a figure now likely to rise to the agreed 11.
Sinn Fein initially supported the plan but the main unionist parties felt that opting for seven super councils would lead to the loss of local identity and preferred the option of a 15 council model.
An announcement of the agreed 11 super-council deal is expected shortly.
(VB/JM)(BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:Rain clearing away east by early evening with some clear spells but a few showers likely to affect the North coast and other areas towards dawn, remaining breezy and mild overnight. Minimum temperature 9 °C.
