Division of responsibilities between local councils and other government departments are leading to inefficiencies and confusing residents, according to a Council of Europe report.

“For example, responsibility for the repair of street lights is split between the local councils and a central provider depending on whether the lamp is attached to a wall or a post,” according to the study that recommended addressing the issue.

The review notes that the government recognised the need to reform the present system but had yet to develop a clear strategy for the reform agenda.

It recommended that options for reform are developed by an independent review commission. Great emphasis is made on the need to provide mandatory training for mayors, executive secretaries and councillors to ensure they know their roles.

The report said that local councils currently procured services (such as cleaning contracts) in isolation rather than working according to geographical areas to secure better deals.

The report reiterated the need to review the outdated 1995 formula for central government funding.

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