Local authorities have been urged by Senedd Member Lindsay Whittle to join forces with the Welsh Government to press for fair funding for public services.
The former Caerphilly Council leader told the Senedd: “Having served in local government for just close on 50 years as a councillor, I have seen the damage first-hand. Our councils are stretched to the limit and public services are under unprecedented strain.”
Lindsay Whittle, who represents Blaenau Gwent, Caerffili and Rhymni, said it was a matter of urgency that the current funding system was replaced.
"The replacement of the current funding formula is limiting the full potential of devolution? Together, this Senedd, with all of the councils across Wales, could be a united force to ensure better funding for our country.
“Decisions about Wales must be made in Wales. Devolution is about the reality on our doorsteps, our schools, our hospitals, our right to shape our own future and the right to control our own resources.”
Responding, Dafydd Trystan Davies, the Cabinet Minister for Government Effectiveness and the Constitution, said that he had raised the issue of fair funding at a meeting of UK Ministers in Belfast last month.
“I very much hope that this Senedd and councils across Wales will speak with one voice, securing fair funding for Wales. We will continue to press the UK Government for improvements to the current arrangements.”