// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
Councillors say 'salary not attractive' to young candidates
In 2025, councillors where given a 5% increase to their basic annual allowance of more than £18,000
Councillors in Northern Ireland have warned their "salary is not attractive" to encourage younger people into local politics.
The National Association of Councillors in Northern Ireland (NACNI) said current arrangements "fall short" and a recent pay rise for Stormont assembly members has created a "significant disparity".
In a letter seen by BBC News NI, the body expressed concern to Stormont's communities minister that local councils "will not be as effective" unless allowances and conditions improve.
The Department for Communities (DfC), which has responsibility for local government matters, said Gordon Lyons was "considering the points raised" by NACNI.
In April, assembly members (MLAs) received a pay rise of more than £14,000, bringing their wages to £67,200 a year.
The almost 27% uplift was determined by Stormont's Independent Remuneration Board.
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