DONEGAL County Councillor Nicholas Crossan has been elected President of the Association of Irish Local Government.

Speaking to the Donegal News following his appointment the Buncrana politician said he was humbled and honoured to take up the post.

“I am delighted with the appointment. The Association is the body to represent and support local councillors,” said the Independent Councillor.

“This association was set up seven and a half years ago following the abolition of the Town Councils and the amalgamation of the Town Councils and the County Councils of Ireland, a new association was formed.

“The main function is to provide support and training for the sitting county councillors. Also if new legislation comes in the Department and the Minister ask us for input.”

Cllr Crossan said the association can bring the views of councillors directly to central government rather than having 31 individual local authorities voicing their concerns.

There are 949 councillors in Ireland and each local authority is a member of the AILG.

He said the role will involve prioritising what was needed in local government and what training was required. Training is provided across a wide range of sectors including finance, housing and roads.

“Local Government is a fluid situation. There are new rules and regulations coming out and changes in laws and we have to keep abreast of that and make sure we have input,” added Cllr Crossan.

“We would hate to see any erosion of local government. We have to keep the power within local government. We have been elected and we have a mandate from the people. Councillors are closer to the people than the TDs and senators and councillors are the first point of contact.”

Cllr Crossan is a past president of the Association of Municipal Authorities of Ireland (AMAI) and is hopeful the experience he gained in this role with help guide him in his new position.