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BETTER LOCAL GOVERNMENT: A PROGRAMME FOR CHANGE
Better Local Government: A Programme for Change was published in 1996 and was the policy document on which the subsequent reform of local government was based. It considered the role of Local Authorities and local government in Ireland and considered how that role could be expanded to enhance local democracy. Better Local Government was based on the following principles:
- Enhancing Local Democracy, which included involving local communities and their representatives in the decision-making processes of local councils.
- Serving the customer better
- Developing efficiency
- Providing proper resources.
Chapter three of Better Local Government outlines the vision for local authorities in relation to a wider role local development. It states 'there is a strong case therefore, for greater integration, simplification and reorganisation on a way, which retains and strengthens the essence of the local development experience. Accordingly, the Government has decided that from 1 January 2000 , an integrated local government and local development system will come into place.' As local development is primarily, though not exclusively, involved in working with those living in poverty and disadvantage, there are obvious implications for the future direction of the work of the Local Authorities.
It also outlines that "A primary aim is to renew local government so that it will be fully accepted as the legitimate voice of local communities and be recognised as such within the overall system of government and public administration."
