Code of Governance for Local Authorities

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The Programme

In July 2024, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage published the Code of Governance for Local Authorities. The Code is the successor to, and builds upon, the previous Governance Principles & Governance Framework for the Local Government Sector (2015).

The Code is to be the centrepiece of the governance framework for local authorities, who are expected to implement the Code in 2025. The code requirements and expectations are built around seven governance principles and attestation will be supported through a signed Governance Statement by each local authority and a Statement on Internal Financial Control, which will transition into a wider Statement on Internal Control in time.

This training event will be provide a briefing on the new code, including its provisions, the new obligations and expectations, and assurance statements, and will be relevant to elected members of local authorities, alongside members of the Audit Committees and those holding senior roles and roles in corporate services and internal control areas.

Who is this for?

The Code of Governance for Local Authorities course will be of benefit to those looking to build their knowledge of the new code and expectations. This may include:

• Elected members
• External members of Audit Committees
• Senior managers
• Personnel in corporate services roles and internal control roles

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, participants will have a good understanding of:

• The basis for the Code and its application in the local government sector
• The seven key principles and areas covered by the Code, including new provisions and their application
• The assurance statements that arise from the Code, in the form of the Governance Statement and the Statement on Internal Financial Control (which will transition to a Statement on Internal Control)
• The practical application of the Code and key responsibilities for implementation

Course Content

This course will cover the following topics:

• Backdrop to the Code of Governance for Local Authorities
• Governing framework for Local Authorities
• Key provisions and application under each of:
  • Principle 1 – Leadership
  • Principle 2 – Values and Behavious
  • Principle 3 – Structure, Roles and Functions
  • Principle 4 – Capacity & Capability
  • Principle 5 – Decision Making – Risk, Finance and Control
  • Principle 6 – Stakeholder Engagement & Accountability
  • Principle 7 – Sustainability & Climate Action
•  Assurances – the Governance Statement and Statement on Internal Financial Control

Other Information

The Code of Governance for Local Authorities can be tailored to the specific requirements of an Irish Local Authority and delivered on an in-house basis at a negotiated rate.

Please email training@ipa.ie if you would like further information about customised training. One of our Professional Development team will then be in contact to determine your specific training requirements and provide you with a quotation.

Course Leader

The Code of Governance for Local Authorities course will be delivered by members of our experienced Professional Development Team:  Dr Tom Ward, Kate O'Donnell, Laura Shannon and Alice Kelly.