Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

888. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his plans for community fora (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49631/14]

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Local Government Reform Act 2014 enhanced the powers of local authorities to take all appropriate steps to consult with and promote effective participation of local communities in local government. One of the principal implementing provisions will be the adoption by each local authority of a framework for public participation in local government. This sets out the mechanisms by which citizens and communities will be encouraged and supported to participate in and influence the decision-making processes of the local authority.

In this regard, Public Participation Networks (PPNs) are being set up in each local authority area to enable the public to take an active formal role in relevant policy making and oversight committees of the Local Authority. They are being set up on the basis of interim guidance from my Department in advance of final Regulations and Guidelines, based on the Working Group Report on Citizen Engagement with Local Government (February 2014). The report is available on my Department's website:



The PPN will be the main link through which the local authority connects with citizens and civil society organisations, but without prejudice to other consultation processes (statutory or non-statutory). With effect from 1 June 2014, where community representation is to be provided on appropriate committees of the Local Authority, such as Strategic Policy Committees (SPC) and the Local Community Development Committees (LCDC) etc., it must be sourced through the PPN. Membership of the LCDC includes 2 nominees from the Community and Voluntary sector, 2 nominees from the Social Inclusion sector and one from the Environment sector.

Membership of the PPN is an open and inclusive process. All interested groups are free to engage with local government through the PPN processes.