Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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247. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the estimated cost of reviewing the local authority participation structures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32289/21]

Joe O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Green Party)
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A Public Participation Network (PPN) is a structure that brings together volunteer-led groups in each local authority area to represent the Community and Voluntary, Environment, and Social Inclusion sectors on Local Authority policymaking structures. PPNs were established following the enactment of the Local Government Reform Act 2014.

My Department has engaged Mazars consultants to carry out an independent review of PPN structures, which is currently underway after a competitive procurement process. The final cost of the review will be published, as appropriate, when the process is completed. The review will consider whether the current structures in place are supporting PPNs in meeting their objectives. Its aim is to ensure that PPNs continue to be fit for purpose and to make recommendations that will support their ongoing development.

Such a review is regarded by my Department as timely given the length of time since PPNs were established. The Programme for Government includes a commitment to “carry out a comprehensive review of PPNs and LECPs to ensure they are fit for purpose for climate action and community development”. The final review report is expected to be complete by end 2021.