Environment Minister Mark H Durkan has participated in a meeting of the Newry, Mourne and Down Statutory Transition Committee (STC) held at the Down District Council offices. Speaking afterwards he pledged to support the changing role of the two existing councils and provide them with “robust and comprehensive legislative and operational network” so that the newly created Newry Mourne and Down District Council is open for business in April 2015. “It is now less than 450 days until that date and I have been and continue to visit all the STCs to ensure that this critical transition work is moving at a pace towards delivery of a more effective, efficient, citizen centered and responsive system of local government,” he added. STC Chair Mayor Michael Ruane said that the Minister’s visit had reinforced the importance of the work that is being done to establish the new ‘super council.’ “We recognize there are a number of important issues still to be resolved in particular minimizing the financial burden upon rate payers,” he said. “We look forward to the Minister outlining how these will be addressed over the coming months.”
Newry Democrat
21st January 2014
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