Dominic Hannigan (Meath East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 170: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the support or advice he will give to tidy towns committee that are looking to expand in their areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34047/12]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The guiding principle of TidyTowns is volunteerism and self-help, using one's own skills and resources to improve one's own environment. Committees are usually comprised of local volunteers representing the local area.

As with any volunteer committee intending to expand in their area, I would advise that they advertise in their local paper, on notice boards, in schools, libraries, community centres, sports clubs or on any locally used websites, notify their local radio station, distribute leaflets in their area, invite local people who may be interested to become involved, and include the local school children. TidyTowns promotes inclusivity and most well established TidyTowns committees are very willing to help and advise their fellow committees. The TidyTowns Handbook, available online on www.TidyTowns.ie , is invaluable to TidyTowns groups and as well as informing work activities in innovative and environmentally friendly ways, it also advises on group structure, meetings, interaction with the wider community and networking with others.