During the debate on the Local Government Reform Bill, April 8th 2014, Judith confirmed the Alliance commitment to the passing of the Bill, saying that not only would it ensure councils can operate across a range of functions and deliver more coherent services but that the reform of local government could deliver projected savings of up to £438 million over a 25-year period. Speaking during the motion, Judith said: "There are several parts of the Bill that, we believe, will especially benefit the new councils. First, we are pleased that proportionality and power sharing will be embedded in the new councils and that as many voices of minority groups will be heard as possible. "Secondly, Alliance is a strong proponent of the community planning responsibility that is being given to councils, as they are best placed to identify local needs and coordinate with other bodies. At its heart, community planning must extend from simply identifying needs and actions to the joint delivery of goods, facilities and services. Therefore, other agencies of government must engage fully with the process. We were disappointed, however, that the SDLP and Sinn Féin did not support the opportunity to put good relations and equality on an equal footing and to embed that concept in the community planning process. "The third element that I am pleased with is the power of well-being. That will allow councils to address all local issues that are specifically excluded by statute, rather than only fulfilling those discrete functions that are prescribed by law. "Finally, I am pleased that the Bill now includes a strengthened section on transparency and accountability. My party has ensured that the Bill will include protections for the public, such as audio recording and online publication of full council meetings, permitting the use of social media by councillors, journalists and the public and requiring the online publication of background papers. "In closing, I too am disappointed that we have not used the Bill to settle the issue of flags once and for all. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, and the Union flag is the constitutionally recognised flag of our country. It should be flown with respect on designated days on all council headquarters with no exceptions, as that best balances the constitutional situation and the need for equality among all parts of our community." Judith further responded to comments from Jim Allister MLA, referring to the Alliance Party as part of a "pan-nationalist front", asserting: "I remain committed to the United Kingdom and to Northern Ireland being part of the United Kingdom as it currently stands until the point where the majority of people who live in Northern Ireland do not wish that to be the case. That is my personal view at the moment, and that is where I stand on the issue."

• published: 16 Apr 2014
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