The future of Northern Ireland's 26 councils, five education boards and four health boards is to be put under the spotlight in a fundamental review of public bodies.

The executive has said it is going to examine the many layers of local government and administration to see if they can be made more efficient.

The review will be launched formally in the spring.

The institutions set up by the Good Friday Agreement, such as the 11 Stormont departments and the six cross-border bodies, will not be part of the review.

However, there may be implications for their functions.

'Long overdue'

Government officials have indicated that while there is no pre-determined outcome, the review might recommend a reduction in the number of local councils.

There may also be a rationalisation in the overlap between different bodies.

The Northern Ireland Assembly is expected to debate the new review of public administration at the end of this month.

Sinn Fein MLA, Alex Maskey, said the review of public administration was long overdue.

Mr Maskey said less bureaucracy and fewer quangos would mean more money for front line services like health.