Opinion

Ratepayers are entitled to know how their money is being spent

The reform of local government in Northern Ireland in recent years was a long drawn out affair, subject to many delays but ultimately resulting in the reduction of 26 councils to just eleven.

The Review of Public Administration aimed to examine the arrangements for the accountability, development, administration and delivery of public services.

This was a huge and complex exercise, which involved the transfer of additional powers, but there were hopes that the reorganisation would lead to improvements and efficiencies.

However, as the sorry saga of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has shown, local government is weighed down by substantial debt leaving councillors having to deal with extremely challenging financial circumstances.

A particular focus has been placed on Causeway Coast and Glens in recent weeks following a proposal to hike rates by 10 per cent and cut a range of services after it was revealed the council was £68.7 million in arrears.

Servicing this debt costs many millions of pounds a year and while an effective rates freeze over the past few years may have been popular, it is hard to argue it was prudent given the dire financial picture.

After twice postponing a decision, councillors eventually struck a domestic rate last week of 7.65 per cent, well above inflation. In addition, savings will be made by removing funding for Portrush Air Show, which will not be held this year even though it attracts visitors and income.

Proposals for further cuts include the closure of Waterworld family centre in Portrush while black bin collections could move from fortnightly to monthly.

Ratepayers are understandably aggrieved at the alarming details which have emerged and will be asking how the council finds itself in such a grim budgetary position.

There is an overwhelming case for a full audit of the council's finances to determine the root of the problem and help councillors and officials come up with a sustainable plan.

It must be recognised that Causeway Coast and Glens is not alone in facing significant debt but serious questions must be asked about the financial decisions that have been taken.

All councils have a duty to demonstrate fiscal responsibility to their ratepayers who are entitled to demand transparency and accountability as part of that process.