A Local Government Boundaries Commissioner has been appointed in Northern Ireland.

Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has announced that former civil servant Dick Mackenzie will occupy the £95,919 per year post.

Minister Wilson said: "I am delighted to announce the appointment of Dick Mackenzie. Mr Mackenzie has had a distinguished career in public service and will bring many qualities and skills to the post of Local Government Boundaries Commissioner."

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The new commissioner will play a key role in the reform of local government in the Province, which will see the current 26 council areas reduced to 11.

Before his retirement, Mr Mackenzie, who lives in Belfast, was a Deputy Secretary with the Department of the Environment. He was previously appointed as Local Government Boundaries Commissioner in June 2006.

Mr Mackenzie is a member of the Parliamentary Boundary Commission for Northern Ireland and receives remuneration of £482 per day.

The DOE confirmed Mr Mackenzie has not carried out any political activity in the last ten years.

(PR/JM)