NI constituency boundaries review due to begin

A sixth review of constituencies which will see the number of NI MPs fall from 18 to 16 is due to begin later.

New rules, introduced by Westminster earlier this year, are aimed at reducing the number of parliamentary constituencies across the UK.

The Boundary Commission for Northern Ireland is responsible for establishing the sixteeen new constituency boundaries.

It will put its final recommendations to the NI Secretary by 1 October 2013.

A sixth review of constituencies which could see the number of NI MPs fall from 18 to 16 is due to begin later.

New rules, introduced by Westminster earlier this year, are aimed at reducing the number of parliamentary constituencies across the UK.

The Boundary Commission for Northern Ireland is responsible for reviewing constituency boundaries.

It will put its final recommendations to the NI Secretary by 1 October 2013.

Liz Benson, secretary to the commission, said: "With the new rules placing great emphasis on broadly achieving equal numbers of electors in each constituency, the review will result in significant changes.

"The next step in the process will be the publication of the commission's provisional proposals for the new boundaries for public consultation towards the end of the year.

"The proposals will be fully available for comment by everyone with an interest and the consultation process will include a number of public hearings."