ALL 69 councillors in Kirklees are going high-tech – with each being offered an iPad.

The move has been agreed to try and speed up communications with council officials and local residents.

But the proposal – which is likely to cost about £25,000 – has been criticised by some.

They say the council should not be spending the money at a time of cutbacks.

But the authority has staunchly defended the plan.

It is believed the move could save many thousands of pounds with the new iPads replacing outdated technology and a raft of written material.

A spokesman said: “iPads will be made available to councillors as part of our move to improve services for local residents while also saving money.

“It is important that councillors are able to use up-to-date technology to work as effectively as possible for local people.

“An independent panel heard from all political groups about the best ways for residents to get involved in council services and decisions.

“This showed that developments in IT have opened up new opportunities for residents. The routes by which councillors are receiving case work and hearing about local issues are changing.

“As there is a fast-growing move towards different online platforms to campaign, petition and raise issues, councillors need the skills and equipment to respond.

“Just as in many parts of the private sector, new technology is vital to future ways of working. This will allow councillors to meet the needs of residents in more efficient ways.

“There will still be traditional routes, such as letters and meetings, but councillors will be able to work on the move, post information online quickly, report news as it happens and invite online views.

“This will make them easier to contact and more accountable, which is a key part of local democracy. The knock-on effect will be to improve council services more quickly and more in-line with local needs.”

Councillors who request an iPad will be able to use one and it will be a replacement for the IT that’s currently provided to them.

That will include phones and any council computer equipment.

The spokesman added: “We cannot give a cost as the amount spent will depend on the demand. However, as with many organisations in the private and public sectors, keeping up to date with technology will allow us to save money in the long run.”