During a panel discussion hosted by the Electoral Reform Society to debate the question “Are 22 Local Authorities too many?” Aberconwy AM Janet Finch-Saunders has called for a step change in the way that local authorities develop, commission and deliver services

Speaking after the debate, Janet said: “With all the talk in the Welsh media focusing on the need to change the map of local authorities in Wales, I feel the need to bring comprehensive reform to the way local authorities work has been lost.

“From my own experience of working in local government, I know there is room for improvement. Local authorities need to work smarter in the way they provide services. By engaging in greater cross-border collaboration, and working with the independent and third sectors they can cut down on needless bureaucracy.

“I would urge that the Welsh Government, the National Assembly for Wales, and Local Authorities themselves, to engage in a frank conversation about how we want our local authorities to operate, and engage in rigorous debate on the recommendations of the Commission on Public Service Delivery when they are announced later this year.”