Alliance Environment spokesperson, Anna Lo MLA said: “I am delighted that the Assembly has backed the Alliance Party’s amendments to increase the openness and transparency of the new Councils.
“It is important that we have a record of what Councillors say and that it is placed online for the public to scrutinise and review. Councils should not be making decisions behind closed doors.
“While I would hope that all Councillors would speak in a respectful manner, by recording meetings and placing that audio online, we can ensure that the public will be made fully aware of any inappropriate comments.
“These new Councils will have more powers and responsibilities, so it vital that there is greater scrutiny of their decisions.
“These amendments will be a signal that all Councils will now be mature, modern and open institutions.”
ENDS