The report of The Working Group on Citizen Engagement proposes a mechanism to enable the community and voluntary, and environmental, sectors to take an active formal role in the policy making and oversight activities of a local authority. The working group’s report was published on 28 February 2014 and is available on my Department’s website www.environ.ie.
The framework for public participation in the Local Government Reform Act 2014 sets out the general principles for formal engagement by local authorities with the community. It will be underpinned by regulations and guidelines from my Department. My Department will now engage with stakeholders, including the Association of County and City Councils and the County and City Managers Association, on the preparation of the regulations and guidelines taking account of the Working Group’s report, including the proposal to establish a Public Participation Network in each local authority area. The regulations will be made as soon as possible, following these consultations.
The participation of citizens and communities in local government, and their right to influence decisions that affect them, are at the centre of democracy. I am satisfied that the new Local Government Reform Act 2014 will facilitate local authorities in building more effective and inclusive relationships with all sections of society and that consultation and participation will be at the heart of our local government system.