Handing out NOK 3,000 to all residents of Sirdal – news Sørlandet – Local news, TV and radio

– Extraordinary times require extraordinary measures. Mayor of Sirdal Jonny Liland (Ap), is probably a popular man in his home municipality now. It was the Labor Party’s local council group that came up with the proposal to distribute NOK 3,000 to all residents. The background was that the municipality is on course for a solid profit in 2023 as well, writes Avisen Agder. The small municipality in Agder is a co-owner of Å Energi. It provides good income. – We think it is reasonable that some of the income from Å Energi benefits the citizens. It is right of us to help in a difficult time when many things are becoming more expensive. The only condition for payment is that you have a registered address in Sirdal as of 18 June. Mayor of Sirdal Jonny Liland (Ap). Photo: Ole Andreas Bø / news Support from KS – Municipalities must and should be sovereign in the use of their income. This is according to Helge Eide, who is the area director for society, welfare and democracy in the Municipal Sector’s interest organization (KS). He will not agree that there is something unsocial in power municipalities handing out money to their residents. – There is a question of income distribution, which is again a consequence of the state’s policy. It is obvious that power municipalities today have a high level of income. He says that there are several similar arrangements around the country, and that it mostly concerns small power municipalities. Area director for society, welfare and democracy in KS Helge Eide. Photo: KS Many applicants are waiting It is the third year in a row that Sirdal has provided direct financial assistance to its residents. Previously, the payment was called electricity support. – Many people have given feedback that this helps their finances, says mayor Liland. Sirdal municipality does not have that many residents. 1810 sirdøler are spread over 774 residences. If all residents make use of the offer, it will cost the municipality NOK 5.5 million. – The politicians’ task is to help the citizens. It is about priorities. For example, Stavanger municipality introduces free public transport. Our support is more adapted to Sirdal, concludes the mayor. Payment must be made continuously. the deadline to apply is 1 September. Sirdal distributes money to the municipality’s residents. Photo: Espen Bierud / news



ttn-69