Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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144. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government in considering the roll-out of pilot counties and their findings, if he would consider amending the guidelines for the roll-out of PPN structures, in respect of County Carlow (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28876/14]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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For the first time in the history of the State, a framework for public participation, which has been provided for under the Local Government Reform Act 2014, will provide the basis for statutory engagement with the community.

My Department has advised all local authorities Chief Executives that Public Participation Networks (PPNs) mus t be set up immediately in all l ocal a uthority areas at county level and guidelines have been issued by my Department to be followed in setting-up the structures. With effect from 1 June 2014, where community representation is to be provided on appropriate committees of the l ocal a uthority, such as Strategic Policy Committees and Local Community Development Committees , it must be sourced through the PPN. The guidelines provide for a consistent approach to the nomination of community representatives to the LCDCs from the PPN s , with two from the Community and Voluntary College, two from the Social Inclusion College and on e from the Environment College. I have no proposals to amend these arrangements.