Alderman Hazel Legge has been appointed President of the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) for the 2026/27 term. The appointment was confirmed at the NILGA AGM and Executive.

Legge, who represents the Ulster Unionist Party, said in her first address that her presidency would focus on partnership with purpose, aiming for stronger councils, stronger communities and a stronger voice for local government. She stressed that local government must be properly recognised as a delivery partner.

She called on ministers, departments and Assembly colleagues to collaborate with councils earlier, more openly and more strategically. She urged that councils be brought in during the design stage of policy, rather than only at the delivery end, highlighting the insight, leadership and democratic mandate local government provides.

Legge also asked member councils to continue sharing their evidence, experience and ambition with NILGA, so that its advocacy remains strong, grounded, credible and impossible to ignore.