Public service unions have launched a campaign to boost the powers of local government and to bring privatised services back under the control of local authorities.

The 'More Power to You' campaign by Fórsa, SIPTU and Connect will run ahead of the local elections in May and will encourage the public and politicians to sign up to a pledge backing measures including directly-elected mayors, and bringing previously privatised services back under the remit of the public service.

Meanwhile today - the Oireachtas committee on housing, planning and local government are examining a private member’s bill by Brendan Howlin, the Labour leader, to restore town councils.

Do you think locals councils should have more power?