LAWS 523 Local Government and Democracy

40 points, 1+2/3

Dean Knight

Our system of local government was recently described in the following way: “The local government system is an essential part of New Zealand’s democratic society. Regional councils and
territorial authorities are not branches of central government. Local government is a distinct level of government, with local authorities subject to statute and largely autonomous, but accountable to the electors.” (Local Government and Environment Select Committee).

The value of the system has also been said to arise from the following three attributes: pluralism (through which it contributes to the national political system); participation through which it contributes to local democracy); and responsiveness (through which it contributes to the provision of local needs through the delivery of services). The nature and
functions of local government are presently under the spotlight with the Auckland super-council and associated reforms. The course provides students with the opportunity to explore the theory and practice of local democracy, and to examine
legal issues arising from the functions and activities of local authorities and other sub-national public bodies.

Timetable Information