Following the announcement last week a representative from the Council told the Courier: "We welcome the recent announcement as it clears any uncertainty about the future for local Government and we look forward to discussing the details that will be presented to assembly on 31st March.

"It is a new beginning for local Government which will provide exciting opportunities for the Mid Ulster region. We along with Cookstown and Magherafelt have a history of working productively together on a number of issues.

"The proposed 2011 amalgamation will give us an opportunity to continue to enhance local services and develop the full potential of the region."

Mayor Barry Monteith also echoed these positive comments and said: "I really welcome the new announcement and this it has lots of potential to truly represent the people anof the whole area.

"Immediately on hearing the news at Corporate level we sought a meeting with both the Councils of Cookstown and Magherafelt and I think have the opportunity to work with them closely from the very beginning and not just when is necessary on the run up to 2011".

Continued the Mayor: "I believe this is a very exciting time for local government and for the people of East Tyrone and South Derry and I am glad that I am part of it," he added

Source: Tyrone Courier

Date: Wednesday, 19 March 2008