This global challenge needs a local approach

摘要

Other than in instances of tragedy or scandal, I can't recall a time when local leaders have been the subject of so much media attention. At every level of government, and in every part of our country, residents have been looking to local figureheads for direction, representation and guidance. There's nothing in itself new about that, and of course for many council leaders it's the reality of the job 365 days of the year, every year. That being said, COVID-19 has undoubtedly brought home the importance of local government within the public eye. From test and trace to community messaging, local authorities are consistently showing themselves to be more adept at managing the key levers that will allow us to get on top of the virus. While I fear that realisation may have dawned on central Government too late to make changes in time for the worst of the second wave, COVID-19 will be among us for some time yet, a reality we need to learn to live with. Although global in nature, the battle against the pandemic is an inherently local one. Making use of their knowledge and contacts, local authorities should now be given the resource and leeway to lead the charge.