At a presentation from the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA), the Chairman of Down District Council Steering Group, Councillor Robert Burgess, UUP, who accepted the framed certificate on behalf of his council said: “I would like to thank the Steering Group Members and Council Officers for their commitment and dedication throughout the process. The charter is a great indication of the commitment from both Councils to work together in partnership to develop our Elected Representatives to ensure future success”.
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Down District Councillor Robert Burgess and Newry and Mourne Council Councillor show off their Charter Certficates from NILGA.[/caption]
Down District and Newry and Mourne District Councils have jointly achieved Charter Status for developing their Elected Members.
Down and Newry is the first Cluster in Northern Ireland to have been awarded Charter status and recognised nationally for their commitment to improving and enhancing the development of their Elected Members.
The two Councils, jointly, attained the coveted Charter status for Elected Member Development earlier this month, following a programme of work which was driven by an Elected Member Steering Group in both Councils. The Steering Groups ensured that Councils were adhering to the Charter standard and made fundamental changes to the way learning and development was planned and managed for Elected Members..
Being awarded the accolade fully recognises the commitment with the two local authorities to Member development and support. It is also recognition that both Councils have achieved best practice in the way they provide learning and development opportunities for elected members.
The Charter provides a robust, structured framework to help local authorities enhance and support member development for the benefit of their communities. This helps ensure that elected members have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively represent our community.
The award was independently evaluated by the South East Employers and Northern Ireland Local Government Association. It considered a portfolio of evidence from both Councils and conducted an assessment day. The accreditation lasts for three years.
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