Implementing the EU
Communication on Empowering Local Authorities
Following
the publication of the EU Communication “Empowering local authorities in
partner countries for enhanced governance and more effective development
outcomes” CLGF and other members of the Platforma network (comprising European
and international associations of local and regional authorities, as well as
regions and cities, active in development cooperation) came together on 20
November in Brussels to discuss a strategic approach to delivering the
objectives set out in the Communication. The meeting also facilitated exchange
of views on the response to be given to the Communication and proposal
regarding the European Commission support to the future activities. CLGF
Deputy Secretary-General Lucy Slack presented th e draft proposal on behalf of
the drafting committee and this will be further developed into a concept
note to be presented to the EC. In addition, CLGF Deputy SG and South Africa
Project Manager Nyasha Simbanegavi participated in a meeting of EU delegations
from Africa in Nairobi from 11-14 November to discuss how their work could
relate more directly to reflect the new Communication priorities and give
support to local government.
Transforming local government
in Europe
Better use of
technology, energy reduction, and boosting economic growth are the key ways
that local government in Europe is transforming local government in response to
austerity measures, according to the participants at the recent CLGF European
Members meeting in Dublin, Ireland, chaired by CLGF Board member from Cyprus
Mayor Lazoros Savvides. The meeting, hosted by Dublin City Council brought CLGF
members from Europe to the capital of Ireland to meet with their counterparts
from the Emerald Isle, which is itself in the midst of a major reform of local
government. Those addressing the meeting included Irish Tanaiste, Mayor of
Dublin, President of Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) and
Mayor of Belfast. Read moreAdvice from CLGF enews@clgf.org.uk
