Stormont’s attitude to councils: ‘do as we say and not as we do’

A Causeway Coast and Glens councillor has slammed Stormont arrangements for engaging with local authorities.

The Partnership Panel was set up to “facilitate discussion on matters of shared strategic interest” between central and local government.

But the panel has not been convened since 2024 when members gathered on just a single occasion.

Its absence prompted Causeway Coast and Glens Council to write to Stormont’s Department for Communities (DfC) seeking an update on its current status and feedback on issues raised over the last five years.

DfC’s response was delivered to the full council on Tuesday.

“The Department recognises the importance of constructive engagement between central and local government and the valuable role of the Partnership Panel in facilitating discussion on matters of shared strategic interest,” wrote a senior DfC official.

“Departmental officials are considering the future arrangements for the Partnership Panel, including the timing, format and potential areas for discussion. No firm arrangements have been agreed at this stage. The Department will communicate with relevant partners when the position has been confirmed.

The DUP’s described the correspondence as a “highly disappointing.”

“There hasn’t been a meeting since 2024,” he said. “That’s not good enough.

“If they are saying they respect the relationship with local government they should reflect that in outcomes like the Partnership Panel.

“There are a number of key issues we have raised that he partnership panel should be looking at

“It seems to be an attitude of ‘do as we say and not as we do’.”