Local Authority Times Local Authority Times Vol 21 No.1 & 2 Summer 2018 ISSN No. 0791-8267

How local authorities adapt or Contents 1. How local authorities adapt/mitigate Climate mitigate the possible impact of Change 2. EPA-RPII Merger a Success 3. Water or wastewater one Climate Change of our most sustainable valuable Resources By Orla O’Donnell Institute of Public Administration,(IPA) 4. Local Economic Development 5. Third Level Campus identified as a driver for The policy response to climate change nationally and internationally is two-fold: firstly, in Kilkenny’s Economy accordance with international obligations, mitigation of greenhouse gas (GHGs) emissions, 5. New Community planned for Clonburris SDZ lands that are exacerbating climate change, and secondly, adaptation to the impact of climate change. 6. Good practice in Local Government seminar Climate Ireland underlines that mitigation Role of local authorities onInnovative Service and adaptation are two complimentary Delivery approaches employed in responding to National Adaptation Framework 7. Education alliance to benefit cross border climate change. ‘Mitigation aims to tackle education provision and the causes of climate change by reducing In launching the National Adaptation opportunities emissions of greenhouse gases or by Framework on Friday, January 19th, 2018, 8. Social Housing Delivery enhancing the capacity of carbon sinks, Minister Denis Naughten T.D. announced Targets for Local Authorities 2018-21 e.g. through afforestation. Adaptation has funding of €10m over a five year period to 9. SEAI Energy Awards 2018 been defined by the Intergovernmental establish 4 Local Authority Regional Climate and funding for design Panel on Climate Change as “The process Action Offices to support the implementation projects of adjustment to actual or expected climate of national climate policy. The establishment 10. Failte Ireland and LAMA agree co-operation deal to stimuli and its effects. In human systems, of the regional offices represents a key action grow Tourism adaptation seeks to moderate or avoid harm under both the National Mitigation Plan and or exploit beneficial opportunities. In some the National Adaptation Framework. News items natural systems, human intervention may Pages x-x facilitate adjustment to expected climate and The Department of Communications, Public Sector Digital its effects” (IPCC 2013). Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE) Marketing Summit acknowledge that ‘the local government examines the role of Social Media To address the mitigation challenge, Ireland sector plays a pivotal role in planning for, and aims to meet its national and international responding to, emergency situations. Given 11 Local Authorities meet Minister to discuss ‘Brexit’ greenhouse gas mitigation commitments their close relationship with the community, Donegal County Council through the adoption of a series of five local authorities can react faster and more launch new alert service for yearly statutory National Mitigation Plans effectively to local climate events than households and businesses (NMP). The NMPs will identify and track other government agencies. This has been Clare County Council the implementation of measures to reduce demonstrated in their response to extreme promotes Europe’s first 21st Century University Town greenhouse gas emissions. A similar long weather events in Ireland over recent years. term process, operating in parallel with and They have essential local knowledge of the EU Budget cuts to regional funding: a severe blow for informed by the mitigation plans, will form natural and manmade environment and have local government the process of adapting Ireland to the impact a critical role to play in managing climate on Local Government in Galway of climate change. risks and vulnerabilities and identifying and more...

Source: https://www.dccae.gov.ie/en-ie/climate-action/topics/adapting-to-climate-change/national- adaptation-framework/Pages/default.aspx Printed on Recycled Paper

1 adaptation actions. They also deliver key Source: in launching a strategy development in particular the central roles of the way of adaptation.” In terms of how to the terms of a statutory national services to the public either directly or on https://www.dccae.gov.ie/en-ie/climate- process, describing key roles and key Ministers responsible for the mitigate the impact of climate change, adaptation framework to be approved action/topics/adapting-to-climate-change/ in partnership with other Government who can fulfil them, and setting out sectors covered by the Plan – Electricity Professor Frank McDermott (UCD) in by Government. Local authorities national-adaptation-framework/Pages/ important factors to consider at the Generation, the Built Environment, an interview in April 2014, outlined will be mandated under the national Departments such as housing, planning, default.aspx early stages of strategy development Transport and Agriculture, as well “the need for a behavioural change in framework to prepare local adaptation sanitation and maintenance of local • Explaining how to assess the role as, drawing on the perspectives and society to reduce the level of CO2 in strategies, the subject matter of the roads, parks and waterways.’ Stefan Gray, author of the EPA Research that weather extremes and climatic responsibilities of other Government the atmosphere by reducing emissions guidelines launched on May 25th, 2016. Report 164 entitled ‘Local Authority trends currently play within the Departments. According to DCCAE, the levels, this would require policy change, In relation to the involvement of the DCCAE stress that ‘local authorities Adaptation Strategy Development local jurisdiction, and describes measures implemented through this e.g. climate policies, energy policies to local government sector, the Minister are mandated under the National Guideline’ (2016) highlights that ‘the why doing so is a fundamental first Plan will lay the foundations for change people’s behaviour. In terms of stated that “devolution of decision- element of working toward a more transitioning Ireland to a low carbon, hurdles to overcome because of climate making to the local level is appropriate Adaptation Framework (NAF) to prepare purpose of this guideline is to support climate resilient future climate resilient and environmentally change.” Looking at some impacts – the impacts of climate change, and the local adaptation strategies, the subject local authorities in the development • Identifying future climate risks, sustainable economy by 2050. To of climate change and sustainability, capacity to respond to them, are very matter of the guidelines launched by of a local climate change adaptation describing a staged risk assessment support this ongoing work, the Plan Professor Eugene O’Brien of UCD School different in different areas of Ireland. the Minister. The guidelines, which strategy. In its structure and content, process and positioning the also includes over 100 individual of Civil, Structural and Environmental Rainfall shortages in one region may not were commissioned by the EPA and the guideline draws heavily on the 2013 adaptation strategy within actions for various Ministers and public Engineering and UCD Earth Institute affect another; local knowledge of how prepared by UCC, are designed to Guidelines on Developing Adaptation more detailed risk assessments bodies to take forward as we move to in an interview on ‘Sustainable cities’ to rapidly implement temporary flood undertaken during shorter term implementation of what will be a living in April 2014, highlighted that “there defences in one area may be lacking in assist local authorities to develop their Strategies provided to European decision making processes such as document. are real challenges with developing another, which has no living memory own adaptation strategies which will Union Member States by the European statutory plan-making sustainable materials. For example, steel of flooding. There is no uniform be distinct and separate to the NAF Commission (SWD(2013) 134 final), • Describing the types of adaptation The Minister for Communications, and concrete are both highly carbon- impact regime or adaptation response and will complement adaptation with the aim of fostering coherence options that are available to address Energy and Natural Resources Mr. Denis intensive materials and steel requires that can be managed centrally; local plans to be prepared by Government between strategies developed at local the risks identified in the previous Naughten T.D., on Friday, May 25th, a huge amount of energy to make it understanding of and sensitivity to Departments on a sectoral basis. DCCAE and national scale.’ Gray (EPA, 2016) chapter, and outlines how each 2016 launched the Local Authority and there is a limited amount. You can change is crucial to getting adaptation might be assessed and prioritised Climate Change Adaptation Strategy recycle steel but, again, it is quite energy right.” point out that ‘the National Adaptation points out that the guidelines describe, for implementation Guidelines. The guidelines, which were intensive. Concrete is a very carbon- Framework will support local and in six steps, the tasks that a local • Outlining the steps required to move prepared on behalf of the Environment intensive material, the making of the In the latest assessment report of the regional adaptation action and the authority needs to complete in order from a phase of planning to one of Protection Agency by UCC, are provided cement releases carbon apart altogether Intergovernmental Panel on Climate development of local authority climate to develop, adopt and implement an implementation, and explaining to assist local authorities to develop local from the energy requirements. The Change (IPCC) (2014), changes in change adaptation strategies. The work adaptation strategy. The six stages are as the importance of monitoring climate change adaptation strategies, aggregate non-renewable resources of climate recorded over the last 100 undertaken to develop a local adaptation follows: and evaluation in ensuring the which will assess local vulnerability stone (aggregate made from stone that is years are considered unprecedented strategy should inform development 1. Forming an adaptation team and strategy is achieving its anticipated to climate risks and identify, cost and a non-renewable resource. And concrete and as a result of human activities, adaptation outcomes’ prioritise adaptation actions. The is the second most used material in the particularly the burning of fossil fuels plans and other statutory plans of the preparing the ground. Minister stated at the launch that while world after water –in volume terms, which results in increased atmospheric local authority.’ They also point out that 2. Assessing the current adaptation The research provides Ireland with a set climate policy has and must continue it is used a lot. And bitumen then for concentrations of Greenhouse Gases ‘the National Adaptation Framework baseline. of local authority adaptation strategy to be primarily focussed on the issue road pavements and pavements and (GHGs). The build-up of GHGs in sets out the context for local adaptation 3. Assessing future climate risk. development guidelines, which will of reducing emissions in accordance road surfaces is a by-product of the oil the atmosphere since the start of the strategies and also explore how local 4. Identifying, assessing and build capacity at the local level for with EU and international obligations, industry so we need to find alternatives industrial revolution has enhanced authorities might adopt a joint or regional prioritising adaptation options. effective climate change decision adaptation is also an urgent policy for all these things. We have made some the Earth’s natural greenhouse effect making. (Gray, EPA, 2016) priority. The Minister pointed out that progress you can use ash now as an and resulted in an increase in average approach to adaptation planning. The 5. Developing an adaptation pathway potential impacts for Ireland are serious, additive to cement which can replace temperatures globally. A one degree joint/regional approach, based on map and drafting the adaptation Source: including, “storm surge events may a lot of cement. You can use recycled global warming is significant as it takes an analysis by the local government strategy. http://www.epa.ie/pubs/reports/research/ increase in frequency; there is likely to materials in concrete road pavements, a vast amount of heat to warm all the sector, harnesses the potential to 6. Mainstreaming, monitoring and climate/researchreport164.html be increased flows to river catchments; add things like, glass to road pavements oceans, atmosphere and land. group certain local authorities based reviewing the adaptation strategy sea level may rise; and rainfall amounts in limited amounts and it works quite on similar geographical/topographical National Mitigation Plan may increase in winter and decrease in well.” The IPCC report (2014) notes that The first National Mitigation Plan summer. These changes, in turn, will ‘greenhouse gases are vital to life on characteristics and on the basis of Overall, Gray notes that ‘the key according to DCCAE, represents an impact on a number of sectors including Reflecting the need for a whole of earth but increasing atmospheric existing synergies in addressing threats components from these guidelines will initial step to set Ireland on a pathway agriculture, energy, infrastructure Government approach, Minister concentrations of GHGs as a result of and impacts of severe weather events and assist in the development of coherent to achieve the level of decarbonisation and water resources. The challenge Naughten noted that the Climate Action human activities, fossil fuel combustion ongoing climate change risks. Therefore and rational decision making based required. (https://www.dccae.gov. for policy-makers is to understand and Low Carbon Development Act 2015 in particular. This is resulting in changes it is based on climate risk assessment on an adaptive management planning ie/documents/national_mitigation_ these climate change impacts and to provides that relevant Ministers will be in average global temperatures (source: with a focus on the predominant risks in cycle, namely by: plan_2017.pdf) They state that it is a develop and implement policies to required to develop sectoral adaptation NASA). Greenhouse gases keep the each geographical area.’ • Outlining the initial steps required whole-of-Government Plan, reflecting ensure an optimal level of response by plans which will be undertaken under Earth warm through a process called the

2 3 ‘greenhouse effect’. In the absence of this climate show that the atmosphere is have demonstrated the impacts of risks and impacts is taken into account, Climate Ireland’s Local Authority Planned adaptation aims to create more effect, the earth would be a much colder getting warmer with the oceans taking weather and climate changes at global, the estimates of damage could rise to Adaptation Wizard helps to gather climate resilient communities by taking place than it is today. The evidence of up more carbon dioxide (CO2) and as national and local scales. The effects of 20% of GDP or more. In contrast, the the information and understanding proactive steps to prepare for the impacts human induced climate change is clear conditions get warmer, sea ice in the climate change will be differentiated at costs of action – reducing greenhouse required to develop an adaptation of projected climate change.’ and 97% of scientists agree that recent Arctic is melting at ten times faster local, regional and national scales and gas emissions to avoid the worst impacts strategy for your local authority and the climate warming trends are due to rates, leading to decreasing sea-ice also across economic sectors. As a result, of climate change – can be limited to area under its jurisdiction. This tool is Climate Ireland outline that vulnerability human activities. As a result of human distributions. The oceans are getting adaptation will require place-based and around 1% of global GDP each year.’ based on international experiences of to climate change is determined by three activities (burning of fossil fuels), levels more acidic, as salt is in higher levels and targeted responses. Climate change will planning for climate adaptation (e.g. factors: exposure to hazards (such as of atmospheric greenhouse gases are more CO2 in the atmosphere is dissolved exacerbate existing vulnerability and The main findings of The Economics UKCIP Adaptation Wizard (http://www. increased rainfall), sensitivity to these now 30% higher than at any time during in the oceans leading to greater levels will pose new threats and opportunities of Climate Change: The Stern Review ukcip.org.uk/wizard/#.VeQ0X9NVhBd) hazards (for example, where houses are the last 800,000 years and this has of carbonic acid.” McDermott (2014) for Ireland.’ (2006) included: and Climate-ADAPT Adaptation Support located in flood plains), and the capacity enhanced the natural greenhouse effect further outlines that in terms of the • there is still time to avoid the worst Tool (http://climate-adapt.eea.europa. to adapt to these hazards (for example, and resulted in warming of the planet; impact on Ireland it is more difficult Similarly, DCCAE highlight that impacts of climate change, if we eu/adaptation-support-tooll) and the where emergency response measures Over the last 100 years, global mean to say what will be affected by sea level ‘research at national level has shown take strong action now; Local Authority Adaptation Guidelines are in place). Adaptation actions aim to reduce vulnerability to climate change temperature has risen by 0.74°C and this rises. “A warmer atmosphere, we know, that changes in Ireland’s climate are • climate change could have very developed by Gray (EPA, 2016). by lowering sensitivity or building increase has a wide range of effects on we are more likely to be hit by more in line with global trends. Even if serious impacts on growth and adaptive capacity. Adaptation actions the oceans, weather patterns, snow and frequent extreme events, for example, Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions fall development; Climate Ireland explain that the Local can be ‘grey’, that rely on technological ice, and plants and animals. Ongoing more frequent storms and more frequent to levels required to stop the worst • the costs of stabilising the climate Authority Adaptation Support Wizard or engineering solutions, ‘green’ that and projected changes in climate will floods, which will result in added impacts of climate change some changes are significant but manageable; consists of three key stages: have both direct (e.g. temperature 1. Understanding - As part of this make use of nature, and ‘soft’ that aim pressure on crop production. The climate are still likely to occur. This is because delay would be dangerous and much to alter human behaviour and styles of related mortality) and indirect effects systems are becoming more energetic, the climate system is slow to react and more costly; stage, you will lay the groundwork (e.g. changes in water quality) and for a successful adaptation process governance. In reality, adaptation will there is more energy in it, a warmer some changes are already locked in. • action on climate change is required involve a mix of adaptation responses or can be of both slow (e.g. drought) and atmosphere, holds more moisture, For Ireland, climate change impacts are across all countries, and it need not and increase your understanding of sudden (e.g. hurricane) onset. The your vulnerability to ongoing and ‘combined adaptation actions’ that will more precipitation and extreme events. expected to increase over the coming cap the aspirations for growth of difference between weather and climate projected future climate impacts; include grey, green and soft adaptation When looking at regional effects of decades and could include the following: rich or poor countries; is a measure of time. Weather relates to 2. Planning - This stage focuses actions, autonomous and planned climate change, it is a bit more difficult sea level rise; more intense storms and • a range of options exists to cut the conditions of the atmosphere over a on identifying, assessing and adaptation. to determine. When we look at climate rainfall events; increased likelihood and emissions; strong, deliberate policy short period of time while climate refers prioritising adaptation options for models, winters are getting wetter and magnitude of river and coastal flooding; action is required to motivate their Developed to support Local Authorities to average weather patterns experienced your key climate risks; summers are getting drier. The impact water shortages in summer; increased take-up; and in preparing for climate change over long time periods (minimum of 3. Managing - This stage aims to help of climate change will be on crops, risk of new pests and diseases; adverse • climate change demands an adaptation, Climate Ireland’s Local 30 years). When we talk about climate you manage your current and future ecology, animals and the population.” impacts on water quality; and changes in international response, based on a Authority Adaptation Primer provides change, we are referring to changes in adaptation actions. Climate Ireland emphasises the findings distribution and phenology (the timing shared understanding of long-term an overview of the what, when and long-term averages of daily weather.’ of the recent IPCC (2014) report that of lifecycle events) of plant and animal how of adaptation. In general, available (IPCC, 2014) goals and agreement on frameworks “warming of the climate system is now species on land and in the oceans.’ for action. frameworks and tools revolve around a number of key steps including: Climate change impacts unequivocal with human influence being the dominant cause since the mid- Asked about what are the biggest Source: defining objectives; risk assessment; DCCAE acknowledge that ‘Ireland is http://webarchive.nationalarchives. an examination of adaptation vulnerable to the adverse effects of global century. Warming of the atmosphere risk factors in terms of the impact of and oceans have resulted in changes in climate change, Professor McDermott gov.uk/20100407163608/http://www. options; developing, implementing climate change, in terms of increase hm-treasury.gov.uk/d/Summary_of_ the water cycle, reductions in snow and (2014) suggests complacency or doing and monitoring an adaptation plan. in average temperature, changes in Conclusions.pdf and ice and changes in sea level.” (IPCC, nothing is the biggest hurdle. The Adopting a step-by-step approach to precipitation patterns, weather extremes planning, Climate Ireland’s Local 2014) They note that climate change is climate is changing and there is need (http://www.lse.ac.uk/GranthamInstitute/ (storms and flooding, sea surges, flash Authority Adaptation Wizard has ongoing with evidence of these changes to communicate this better. Dr. Fiona publication/the-economics-of-climate- floods) and sea-level rise. Climate been designed to support you through at global and national levels. Projections Doohan (2014) School of Biology and change-the-stern-review/ change will have diverse and wide the process of developing a local level of future changes indicate that the Environment Science at UCD Earth ranging impacts on the environment, Climate Ireland note that ‘the Local adaptation plan and in accordance situation is serious and that adaptation Institute highlights that ‘we need to plan society, economic sectors and natural Authority Adaptation Support Wizard with the requirements of the National for and adapt to climate change. This was resources. These include managed and will be essential. Climate Ireland also provides access to information, Adaptation Framework. natural ecosystems, water resources, stress that ‘climate change presents a also recommended by The Economics of tools and resources that will assist in agriculture and food security, human unique challenge for Ireland economy, Climate Change: The Stern Review on planning for adaptation to climate National and international case health, coastal infrastructures and environment and society. Uncertainty climate change published on 30 October change. Adaptation aims to ensure studies marine environment. These impacts are around timing and magnitude of 2006. The Stern Review concluded that that we are better prepared to respond A selection of adaptation case studies expected to increase over the coming impacts and short-term concerns stand ‘the benefits of strong and early action to current and future climate change (3 are outlined below) on how other decades.’ out as two key stumbling blocks for far outweigh the economic costs of not impacts. As our climate changes, we will organisations are planning for and adaptation action. However, it is now acting. Using the results from formal need to make adjustments and adapt adapting to climate change are clear that to avoid the adverse impacts economic models, the Review estimates to the changing climatic conditions. This is also highlighted in an interview contained in the CIRCLE-2 Adaptation of these changes and take advantage of that if we don’t act, the overall costs and This might involve making changes Inspiration Book (http://www.circle-era. of Professor Frank McDermott (UCD) any opportunities, we must now begin risks of climate change will be equivalent to our buildings to ensure that they eu/np4/552.html) published in 2013, on climate change in April, 2014 where to proactively plan for projected climate to losing at least 5% of global GDP each keep cool during hot summers or which includes 22 case studies of early he stated that “international studies on change and impacts. Recent experiences year, now and forever. If a wider range of using water resources more efficiently. adaptation in Europe.

4 5 Coastal Areas & River flooding: likely see an increase in levels of so they targeted one-bedroom flats Benefits: The key driver for the scheme A £30,000 Forestry Commission grant as a priority indicator in 56 Local Area UK &Ireland winter precipitation and that this is and bungalows - the homes of elderly is reducing fuel poverty. Residents’ covered half the costs of the drying shed. Agreements) will have to assess and Towards a more balanced likely to increase the risk of surface couples who do not go out much. This heating bills could fall by up to 40 per The council had already approved its manage climate risks and opportunities, management of a harbour and river water flooding. This case means that electricity generated by the cent once the plan is implemented, Biomass Implementation Policy in June and incorporate appropriate action through a Local Authority- study describes the measures taken PV panels is used by tenants and reduces meaning they could each save around 2004. into strategic planning, including Academic Couplet in Cork (http:// by Leicestershire County Council in their bills rather than being fed back £200 each year. The council also has developing and implementing a climate ec.europa.eu/ourcoast/index. planning for future flood risk. into the national grid. a target of a borough-wide 40 per cent Benefits: Smithies Lane Depot has a change adaptation plan. There is also a cfm?menuid=4&articleid=6 ) reduction in carbon emissions by 2020 half megawatt boiler, so it generates half climate change partnership in each of Benefits: On the Croftlands Estate (based on 2005 levels). Along with a megawatt of heat every hour. This has the 9 English regions. Their programmes Some further examples of any unused electricity goes back into savings on residents’ bills, the energy displaced about 200 tonnes of coal and of work vary but their key roles include This case study examines the steps projects to adapt to or mitigate the national grid. In future on similar costs of running the leisure centre and saved nearly 500 tonnes of CO2 a year raising awareness of the impacts of taken towards achieving more climate change: United Kingdom projects, KNL will benefit financially baths will be cheaper; a saving that can since 2006. The depot makes all its fuel climate change, informing and advising balanced management of a multi-use from the feed-in tariff. Tenants are be passed on to local people. The heating from tree waste that would otherwise on the challenges and opportunities harbour: Cork Harbour. It includes the saving from £100 to £150 a year on will be more reliable because new CHP have gone to landfill. Carbon emissions of climate change in the region and management of climate change impacts Project: Kirklees Council use of electricity bills. The tenants are proud engines are more efficient. In future, from Barnsley’s buildings portfolio were developing practical adaptation and safeguarding of coasts/coastal solar panels as part of their green of the PV panels, which look smart and the network can easily be extended to 70,000 tonnes in 1990. This was down responses. They work to influence the systems, through the establishment of a ambition have raised the collective self-esteem of reach a larger part of the borough. The to 33,000 tonnes for the financial year strategies and plans of key partners and strategic alliance (couplet) between the the estate. Installing the panels has also borough-wide scheme will contribute to 2008/09 due to biomass boilers and work with stakeholders across key sectors local authority and multi-disciplinary Kirklees Council have a green ambition prompted tenants to think more about reducing carbon emissions, potentially changing the heating systems. to enhance the region’s resilience to the academic experts. This innovative to cut carbon emissions by 30 per cent energy efficiency and green issues. by 60 percent. impacts of climate change. Links to the relationship resulted in the adaptation between 2005 and 2020. As part of Contact: Richard Bradford, Retired website for each partnership is available of an Integrated Harbour Management that, Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing Contact: Chris Moorhouse, Energy Contact: Lucy Padfield, Energy Services Principal Designer (Building Services) via UKCIP (www.ukcip.org.uk) Team Manager, Kirklees Neighbourhood Strategy established with the consensus (KNH) has installed photovoltaic (PV) Manager, London Borough of Islington at Barnsley Council, Email: r.bradford@ Housing, Perseverance House, St Council, Email: lucy.padfield@ blueyonder.co.uk See also the local council adaptation of stakeholders, and a strengthening panels on several estates. This case Andrews Road, Huddersfield HD1 6RZ, islington.gov.uk guide: https://assets.publishing.service. link between science and policy at the study looks at a project installing 60 PV systems on Croftlands Estate in autumn Email: [email protected]. Source: gov.uk/government/uploads/system/ local level. https://www.local.gov.uk/barnsley-sets- 2009. Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing uk Source: uploads/attachment_data/file/218798/ https://www.local.gov.uk/islington-heats- biomass-boilers adapt-localcouncilguide.pdf A more holistic approach to beach (KNH) is an arm’s length management organisation (ALMO) responsible for Source: borough-wide-network management by a Local Authority- https://www.local.gov.uk/kirklees-use-solar- In order to adapt effectively, managing Kirklees Council’s housing New Zealand Academic Couplet (http:// panels-part-their-green-ambition organisations will need to assess the risks stock. KNH chose poly-crystalline There are some useful lessons to be ec.europa/ourcoast/index. posed by climate change and develop an panels because - although they are not as Project: Barnsley sets off biomass gleaned from mitigation and adaptation cfm?menuid=4&articleid=25) action plan to address these. As a result, efficient as mono-crystalline - they are boilers strategies that have been implemented the Department for Environment, less expensive and were suitable for the Project: Islington Council heats up since 2004 in New Zealand. Overall, County Donegal has a varied coastline Food and Rural Affairs(DEFRA) (2010) limited roof spaces on Croftlands Estate. a borough-wide network In 2004, Barnsley Metropolitan Council Bennett (2014) notes post 2009, there is a that is dominated by long stretches of made a commitment to consider published a guide entitled, ‘Adapting shift toward climate change adaptation rocky cliffs interspersed with sandy to climate change: A guide for local Funding: In 2008, Kirklees Council Islington Council aims to set up a biomass heating systems for all new and focus and the Local Government beaches and dune systems, some of councils,’ London: DEFRA, page 17 agreed a capital investment of £13.9 borough-wide heat network that could refurbished buildings. Work done since Position Statement on Climate Change which have some form of conservation contains a diagram of possible actions million for renewable energy projects on potentially reduce carbon emissions by has enabled a small wood-chip supply advocates adaptation rather than designation attached. The increasing that may be taken by Councils: https:// housing stock managed by KNH. This 60 per cent. Islington Council plans to business to start up. Barnsley is also mitigation strategies. Dr Hayley Bennett, importance of recreational use which assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/ came from housing revenue account create a borough-wide district heating powering their main depot with wood- Public Health Medicine Specialist has resulted in a decline in conservation government/uploads/system/uploads/ (HRA) reserves. The £13.9 million is network, initially to supply cheaper and chip supply from tree waste in their parks. Member of OraTaiao: The NZ Climate status and amenity value in some attachment_data/file/218798/adapt- a total asset cost. The council aims to greener heating to more than 700 homes Smithies Lane Depot is Barnsley’s main and Health Council. in a presentation locations. This case study examines localcouncilguide.pdf attract 40 per cent external funding and and two leisure centres in 2011 using a operational depot, running services entitled ‘How should local government the implementation of a more holistic so reduce its capital outlay. At October gas-powered combined heat and power such as waste collection, highways and respond to climate change?’ emphasises and less site-focussed approach to Also the powers and functions of 2010, the council has installed £2.8 energy centre. The council will procure parks. About 400 staff are based at the why it is important for local government ICZM leading to the development of an Local Councils to support action to million of assets and achieved 54 per and own the heat network, giving depot. The biomass boiler runs the to respond to climate change given that adapt to climate change impacts are appropriate management strategy. cent of external funding. The project Islington the option for expansion in heating for the offices and the canteen. cities and urban areas are estimated provided on the DEFRA website, www. on Croftlands Estate cost £399,000 the future. In 2006, the boilers at the Smithies Lane to account for c.80% of global GHG defra.gov.uk/environment/climate/ Tackling Flood Risk in (including VAT). It was half funded Depot needed renewing and, because emissions. Local Government is action/localauthorities.htm. Further Leicestershire by the capital investment scheme and Funding: An external grant of £2.3 of council policy, were replaced with responsible for a range of functions and guidance for councils was published on (http://www.climate-em. half by the Low Carbon Buildings million for the first phase has come from biomass boilers. A 700-tonne store was decisions that can affect climate change, the new indicator process http://www. org.uk/images/uploads/cem- programme. the Greater London Authority’s Targeted also constructed to allow storage and air- and are affected by climate change: land defra.gov.uk/corporate/about/what/ leicestershire-5-a4.pdf ) Funding Stream. In October 2010, the drying of the wood-chips. The council use, transport, refuse and recycling, localgovindicators/ni188.htm) and is The capital investment fund for council’s Executive approved a further uses its own tree waste from parks and buildings, civil defence emergency designed for use by councils to help in Leicestershire has a long history of renewable energy is part of Kirklees’ £1.9 million of Growth Funding from gardens. management and water management. planning for NI188 but is also likely to be localised flooding (river and surface Green Ambition to cut carbon emissions the Homes and Communities Agency. Local Government is a major sector of useful for local councils. Local authorities water). Projected climate changes by 30 per cent between 2005 and 2020. The entire project is expected to pay back Funding: The Bio Energy Capital the economy with annual operating in England who are working towards for the UK suggest that the area will KNH are keen to tackle fuel poverty, the initial investment over 20 years. Grants Scheme contributed 25 per cent income & expenditure of over $7billion to the £100,000 cost of the boiler plant. performance indicator NI188 (included and contributes to around 4% of New

6 7 Zealand’s GDP, employs about 23,000 One example Bennett (2014) looks at is Bennett (2014) notes (post 2009), there is replaces the existing Regional Policy tions to the delivery of council services, • Submission to Environment for Fu- (fte) staff and owns assets worth CCP-NZ: ChCh City Council and she a shift toward climate change adaptation Statement and 13 existing district and generate unbudgeted financial impacts ture funding package, https://www. $110billion. Since 2004, the Resource sets out the main feature of corporate focus and the Local Government regional plans. The unitary plan will be and affect the wellbeing of the com- lgnsw.org.au/files/imce-uploads/122/ Management (Energy and Climate and community actions of this project, Position Statement on Climate Change the rulebook, e.g. – what can be built and munity, particularly those vulner- submission_environment_future_ Change) Amendment Act, has included as follows: emphasises responsibility for adaptation. where – how to create a higher quality and able to weather extremes. Councils funding_package.pdf a reference to climate change: local more compact Auckland. But, Bennett need to prepare for the unavoidable • Building Resilience to Climate authorities are required to have regard CORPORATE ACTIONS Adaptation Planning Examples: underlines that it should come after Low Change Grants program, http:// impacts of climate change (adaptation) to “the effects of climate change” and • Landfill gas to heat and power QEII Hawkes Bay Regional Council Carbon Action Plan! www.lgnsw.org.au/policy/cli- and have a significant role in reducing “the benefits to be derived from the use recreational centre. Regional Coastal Environment mate-change/building-resilience the degree of climate change which and development of renewable energy.” • Replaced coal heating in Centennial Plan: Overall, Bennett (2014) acknowledges may occur (mitigation). NSW councils Local government can consider the Pool with ground-source heat Hawkes Bay Regional Council Regional that there have been brave attempts, but • Leading land use case studies by local are key players in adaptation to climate potential effects of climate change pump. Coastal Environment Plan sets out the she highlights some criticisms: ‘Auckland government, http://www.lgnsw.org. change. BUT 2most appropriate” to address • Used-vegetable oil to heat Halswell creation of “inundation risk zones” that Council seems to be working on high au/policy/climate-change/land-use- air discharges at the national level. Swimming Pool instead of diesel. have a risk of a 1/50yr flood. These zones level statements without adequately planning-changing-climate They have responsibility for a broad Prohibits Councils from considering • Upgraded to energy saving traffic are where building would be banned or linking them to regulation in plans range of functions that are likely to be the effects of greenhouse gas (GHG) lights technology. restricted and boundaries taking into and bylaws. There have been repeated • The NSW Adaptation Research Hub, affected, such as public infrastructure, emissions on climate change in making • Green building principles for account possibilities of a sea level rise. In delay of the Energy Resilience and Low http://climatechange.environment. local emergency responses, building rules on air discharges. Courts have also retrofits of council buildings. terms of adaptation, there is a difficulty Carbon Action Plan and it is aspirational, nsw.gov.au/adapting-to-climate- regulation and planning, public health ruled against consideration of climate planning over long time-frames. There is but difficult to achieve given current change/adaptation-research-hub and environmental management. With change in land use consent. The Local COMMUNITY ACTIONS uncertainty regarding risk and changing structures and political climate.’ each local government area having a Government Act 2002 Amendment • Greater ChCh Urban Development risk, therefore a need for flexible • The NSW Local Government pro- unique set of geographical, environmen- Act 2012 sets out the purpose of local Strategy – plan to intensify. planning. Organisational arrangements In conclusion, Bennett (2014) provides gress and needs in adapting the cli- tal, economic and social circumstances, government: “to meet the current and • City wheelie bins to separately between regional & district councils is some ideas on what more could be done mate change Survey 2015, http://cli- the effects and risks of climate change future needs of communities for good- collect organics, recycling & refuse. creating gaps in implementation. by Local Government, including, matechange.environment.nsw.gov. will differ. Early planning and prepara- quality local infrastructure, local public • Community energy efficiency • For example, re-thinking the balance au/~/media/9da9caa0c3f3478087b- tion can minimise long-term econom- services, and performance of regulatory initiatives and housing retrofits. Case Study: Auckland Unitary Council of land-use in the region e.g. Rotorua 6c39ba88324c4.ashx ic, social and environmental costs to functions in a way that is most cost- • Offered free inner-city bus service. Auckland contains a third of New District Council created a Land communities.’ effective for households and businesses.” • Established 13km of cycle lanes. Zealand’s and its transport is responsible Innovation Challenge to identify Conclusion Given that RMA and LGA increasingly for 40% emissions. One Auckland innovative and viable land uses for Using the policy tools of adaptation For this reason, the NSW Government constrained by legislative amendments Other examples from CCP-NZ council aims to integrate plans and the Rotorua catchment area and win and mitigation in dealing with climate has provided resources and information and legal interpretations, Bennett looked CORPORATE policies across the region. $20,000 change and having regard the informa- for councils to help residents under- at how local government approaching • Solar/LED street lighting trials. • Advising/supporting farmers to tion and resources available nationally stand, prepare for and minimise the climate action. There is a reasonable • Water and sewage pumping Auckland Plan (May 2012) manage wet soils to reduce nitrous and internationally in the policy doc- impacts of future extreme events and amount of council mitigation action efficiency initiatives. Auckland Plan (May 2012) identifies oxide formation. uments and case studies highlighted in hazards caused by climate change: from 2004-2009. Looking particularly • Council buildings – changes to climate change and energy security as • Setting nitrogen limits - lower stock this article, should ensure that local au- at the Communities for Climate temperature set-points, and de- challenges for region over next 30yrs. It numbers and lower methane and thorities are well able to identify, assess, A Guide to Climate Change Risk Protection Project in New Zealand lamping. provides a Strategic direction on how to nitrous oxide. measure the possible impact of climate Assessment, http://climatechange. (CPP-NZ) project, delivered by ICLEI • Vehicle fleets -new vehicle purchase ‘contribute to tackling Climate Change • Making renewable energy options for change and associated need for energy environment.nsw.gov.au/adapting-to- (International Local Governments for criteria. COMMUNITY and increasing energy resilience.’ It homes easier (e.g. loans for solar hot efficient processes and other innovative climate-change/local-government/iden- Sustainability), covering 34 councils or • Park and ride initiatives. water) developments (solar panels, biomass, tify-risks-and-vulnerability 83% of NZ population and provided a • Door to door giveaway energy contains targets to lower GHG emissions road surface & buildings new substitute • Integrated Regional Vulnerability strategic framework by letting councils efficient light bulbs. (10%-20% by 2020, 40% by 2040, 50% by Source: materials) to tackle GHG emissions and Assessments http://climatechange. determined own actions to reduce • Considering solar water heaters 2050). https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/presenta- also to protect against potential risks environment.nsw.gov.au/adapting- GHGs in terms of both Corporate or loan scheme. tion/5632/98b23c49b43c6bab887f9db- (flooding, drought, coastal erosion) that to-climate-change/regional-vulner- Community actions in terms of energy, • Pensioner units – insulation and Auckland Energy Resilience and 95515c370d7d1.pdf lie ahead. waste, transport, land use, planning. solar hot water. Low Carbon Action Plan ability-and-assessment Bennett (2014) highlights that there • Council sustainability advisors. There are fifteen ‘particular areas of New South Wales (NSW) are five milestones in Communities for focus’ for this Action plan (identified in The NSW Government outlines that • Adaptation Planning for Local Climate Protection Project: In relation to CCP-NZ, Bennett Auckland Plan), such as, public transport, ‘Councils, along with Commonwealth Government checklist, http://cli- 1. Conduct a greenhouse gas emissions highlights that it was no longer funded travel demand management, alternative and State Governments and other matechange.environment.nsw.gov. inventory, analysis, and forecast. after 2009. Continuation of mitigation fuels, pricing mechanisms, integrated stakeholders, have a responsibility to au/~/media/4ab70431a89c49b0aac7 2. Set emissions reduction goals. activity is dependent on political make- land-use and transport patterns, waste prepare for climate change. Councils can 26b19d278b52 3. Develop a local action plan to up of Councils and some are doing well management and new technologies. play a key role by adopting policies and achieve these goals. in this regard (PNCC, Dunedin), but, But, Bennett notes that there have been practices in relation to climate change • Minimising the impact of extreme 4. Implement and quantify the some have let emphasis go. Therefore, numerous delays. mitigation and adaptation, targeting heat: A guide for local government, benefits of policies. mitigation action is patchy and not both council operations and services to http://climatechange.environment. 5. Monitor progress towards the monitored or reviewed. It is not joined- Proposed Unitary Plan (Sept 2013) the community.’ They highlight that ‘cli- nsw.gov.au/~/media/a515a078100c- reduction goal up and there is no national leadership. The Proposed Unitary Plan (Sept 2013) mate change has the potential to damage 4181835ca6259dccf226.ashx council assets, can cause serious disrup-

8 9 Useful resources and sources of https://www.dccae.gov.ie/documents/ Environment Agency (UK), http:// information: CCAC%20Response%20to%20 www.environment-agency.gov.uk/ Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Draft%20NMP%20May%202017%20 research/default.aspx Adapting to climate change (Australia) Letters%20to%20Sectors.pdf http://climatechange.environment. Climate change and renewable en- Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland nsw.gov.au/Adapting-to-climate- https://www.dccae.gov.ie/en-ie/ ergy, https://www.local.gov.uk/cli- change/Local-government and Policy climate-action/topics/adapting-to- mate-change-and-renewable-energy (RPII) Merger a Success on climate change: https://www. climate-change/national-adapta- lgnsw.org.au/policy/climate-change tion-framework/Pages/Localadapta- Professor Frank McDermott from the By Joanna O’Riordan, IPA tion.aspx UCD Earth Institute gives an inter- Contact: Denise Anderson, Senior view on Climate, published on Apr In summer 2017, the complaints. Three years after the There is evidence that this Policy Officer, Environment, email: https://www.dccae.gov.ie/en-ie/cli- 16, 2014, https://www.youtube.com/ Environmental Protection [email protected] mate-action/topics/adapting-to-cli- watch?v=Ejo4TtIf_kU&list=PLK8_ merger, staff consulted indicated that transformation is taking place. By the Agency (EPA), asked the Research mate-change/ireland’s-climate-in-the- Avek3IAC8llccr-l-tGBLA4RZw8MH&- on a personal level they are happy end of 2017, many benefits have been future/Pages/default.aspx Division of the Institute of Public with the merger. These are significant realised – improvements in corporate Climate Ireland documents: index=5 Administration (IPA) if they outcomes. However, notwithstanding service areas, such as, HR, IT and health https://www.climateireland.ie/#!/ would carry out a case study of aboutAdaptation/climateChange Department for Environment, Food Professor Fiona Doohan from the the considerable achievements and and safety, and also in a number of and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) UK: the merger of the EPA with the UCD Earth Institute gives an inter- Radiological Protection Institute effort to date, the work of the merger work areas, for example, laboratory DEFRA (2010) Adapting to climate https://www.climateireland.ie/#!/ view on Crops for the Future, pub- of Ireland (RPII) which took place continues. An ultimately successful integration, emergency planning and change:A guide for local councils, aboutAdaptation/climateChange/ lished on Apr 16, 2014, https://www. in August 2014. The case study https://assets.publishing.service.gov. outcome, whereby the EPA is more than air quality monitoring. The merger evidence youtube.com/watch?v=uAOauY- was published in May 2018 as part uk/government/uploads/system/up- the sum of its parts, is dependent on has also been a catalyst for change ite_A&index=6&list=PLK8_Avek3IA- of the IPA’s State of the Public loads/attachment_data/file/218798/ the realisation of benefits and synergies in organisation culture. The more https://www.climateireland.ie/#!/ C8llccr-l-tGBLA4RZw8MH Service series. aboutAdaptation/adaptation/howTo- adapt-localcouncilguide.pdf from the merger that will result in collaborative and consultative approach enhanced productivity and better evident in the development of the vision, Adapt Professor Eugene O’Brien from The objectives of the case study were DEFRA, Climate Change (including the UCD Earth Institute gives an public service. mission and values of the EPA, the new climate change risk assessment and to document the EPA-RPII merger https://www.climateireland.ie/#!/re- interview on Sustainable Cities projections) https://www.gov.uk/gov- process and review outcomes to date, to sources/caseStudies and Regions, published on Apr 16, ernment/policies/adapting-to-climate- inform the EPA in respect of areas where 2014, https://www.youtube.com/ change consolidation is still required, and share https://www.climateireland.ie/#!/ watch?v=MkgvSqRUv9U&list=PLK8_ tools/sectoralTool Avek3IAC8llccr-l-tGBLA4RZw8MH&- learning gained from the merger with DEFRA, Flood Risk Management: index=4 other public service bodies. It is, however, https://www.gov.uk/flood-risk-manage- Department of Communications, recognised that a full assessment of the ment-information-for-flood-risk-man- Climate Action and Environment EPA factsheet on GHG indicators, merger will not be possible for a number agement-authorities-asset-own- (DCCAE) documents: https://www.epa.ie/pubs/reports/ ers-and-local-authorities of years. https://www.dccae.gov.ie/en-ie/ indicators/epa_factsheet_greenhouse_ news-and-media/press-releases/Pages/ DEFRA, www.defra.gov.uk/environ- v2.pdf The merger of the EPA and RPII came Local-Authority-Climate-Change-Ad- ment/climate/action/localauthorities. at a time of public service cutbacks and aptation-.aspx htm agency rationalisation. Initially, there was little enthusiasm for the merger in either organisation. However, once it was announced, staff in both organisations committed to the merger process with a high degree of goodwill and engagement. It is widely acknowledged that the structures and processes put in place to bring about the merger were highly effective.

The merger happened on time, within budget, while maintaining services and without any significant customer

10 11 Statement of Strategy, and the Senior Those involved in the merger regarded change fatigue. The risk of inertia from and involved a variety of methods. The Management Network, is very much an it as absolutely necessary that the people that feel ‘the merger is done’ is investment in this area, in particular outcome of the increased scrutiny on work involved in preparing for and considerable. While there is a desire direct engagement through joint the organisation culture of the EPA as a implementing the merger was carried for further integration, the level of planning and working groups, helped result of the merger. out by EPA and RPII staff. They knew disruption involved for staff needs to be build up a high level of familiarity the organisations and therefore, were managed. It is also important to balance between the staff of both organisations Ongoing consolidation and effort will best placed, with occasional technical preserving existing competencies with by the time of the merger. be required for many years to come. assistance, to identify and make the the need for change and adaptation in However, the EPA appears well-placed required changes. It was also essential response to emerging requirements. In the course of the research for to achieve a successful merger, an in facilitating ownership of change. Lastly, as new ways of working and a new this study, two aspects of merger outcome that regrettably often eludes Rather than a change being imposed by organisation culture emerge, it needs to communication were identified by many merger processes. As noted by external consultants, there is more likely be recognised that changing behaviours staff consulted as challenging. Firstly, the Cranfield University School of to be acceptance of proposals developed takes time. A key learning from the EPA is some research participants referred to Management (2002:57), ‘You start out by colleagues. In addition, working that this process – the merger aftermath an ‘over-promising’ or ‘over-selling’ of with a merger and end, perhaps many together on project groups facilitated – needs to be intensively managed. It the merger, particularly in respect of years forward, with a new organisation getting to know each other and helped will not happen organically. career progression opportunities. In and a new culture.’ build trust. a bigger organisation there are more Keep an eye on the people issues opportunities but equally there is more The report identifies a number of lessons The merger is only the beginning Harnessing the ongoing support and competition. It is very understandable, learned from the merger process which The merger of the EPA and RPII was goodwill of staff is essential for a positive in a context where those involved are likely to prove of value to public successful to the extent that it happened merger outcome. For the EPA-RPII are trying to promote the merger and service organisations engaged in mergers on schedule and within budget in merger, this was led from the top of both present its benefits, how this tendency or other change initiatives. summer 2014. However, the real organisations, with engagement with to ‘over-sell’ can arise. However, it can success of the new organisation will staff at all levels prioritised. Achieving result in dissatisfaction when the reality The process matters be determined by whether it becomes a single grading system represented post-merger is not as envisaged by staff. It is perhaps obvious to say that process more than the sum of its parts, in other a significant achievement of the matters. However, given a context words, whether the new organisation merger and was the result of extensive A further aspect of communication some whereby neither body instigated the performs better than either of the old negotiation. It greatly facilitated the staff interviewed had difficulty with, merger and where negotiations are organisations would have if they had integration of all staff in the merged was the whole concept of ‘a merger’. In very challenging, it is helpful to have been left in place. organisation. practice, an organisation of 40 people a process that includes a governance joining with one almost ten times the structure, an action plan and a timeline Notwithstanding the considerable In the immediate aftermath of the size is never going to result in complete to facilitate progress being made. work done to date, in many respects merger, career progression issues parity of treatment at an organisational the EPA-RPII merger has only just were significant. In particular level. Stating this does not in any way The terms of reference provided by begun. Ultimately a successful outcome some staff were frustrated when take from the huge effort that was put in the Department were seen as helpful. is dependent on effective merger promotion opportunities, which they to ensuring on an individual level that In particular, the indication that consolidation, improved productivity believed would be available in the all staff would be treated equally. Rather, radiological protection would be and customer service, and the creation larger merged organisation, did not the ongoing references to a merger incorporated into the EPA as a fifth office of a new organisation and organisation materialise. However, feedback from created expectations within the RPII is regarded as having taken any debate culture. This outcome will take time and promotion competitions and a greater that could not be fulfilled. However, in respect of the new organisation’s continued commitment, being led from understanding of the process appear to responsibility for this matter does not structure ‘off the table’. Similarly, with the top. have helped to address these concerns. rest with the EPA; rather it reflects a regard to negotiations on the name of The vast majority of staff have now wider policy issue of how public service the merged agency, when agreement Managing the post-merger aftermath adjusted to the merger to the extent The importance of merger of staff involved and the regional nature reform is communicated. could not be reached by the Merger is relentless and requires careful that they can see many benefits from communication and consultation of the EPA, the consensus appears to be Working Group, it does appear to have balancing. The work effort has been the merger and are increasingly positive Staff and stakeholder communication that communication and consultation The importance of vision been helpful to be able to ‘fall back’ on huge but the full benefits have yet to be about the outcome. needs to be structured and planned was given a high priority. Initiatives When first announced, there was a political decision that public servants realised. There is a need to continue to throughout the merger process and in this regard were commenced early a strong perception among staff of were required to accept. motivate staff who may be experiencing beyond. In the case of the EPA-RPII in the merger planning process, were both the EPA and the RPII of the merger, notwithstanding the number led from the top of both organisations proposed merger being driven by the

12 13 adverse financial climate rather than organisation, and the positive feedback to implementing government policy. strategically motivated. However, the in respect of this, was influential in a However, a high capacity for leadership importance of determining a vision similar approach being adopted for the is still required post-merger, to reap the full benefits of the merger. for the merged organisation was new EPA Statement of Strategy, 2016- Water or wastewater one of our most immediately recognised by the EPA and 2020. Together these initiatives signal Mergers demand the time and the RPII. a transitioning to a new organisation commitment of the management culture at the EPA. teams of both organisations, but in sustainable valuable Resources The work done on the vision, mission particular the heads of the organisations and values of the merged organisation in Leadership. involved. For the merger to ultimately be By Patrick Moran, MIEI, Executive Area Engineer, Tipperary County Council 2013/14 was critical in helping to identify Strong leadership is critical to a successful successful it is important that the leaders merger outcome. The commitment and have a clear vision for the merger, and an for staff that there was ‘more that united The EU is to take action against Ireland, Sustainable Future biggest problems facing us today, are leadership of the two chief executives appreciation of the need to bring about as areas of the country have non- I work with extraordinary people, driven pollution and climate change. them than divided them’. The debate and the two management teams was changes in how the merged organisation compliances in relation to the quality by a deeply held belief, desire to make and subsequent decisions in respect of critical to the successful delivery of the works and in its culture. It is also vital to of sewer/wastewater discharges to water a difference to people’s lives. These The way we use resources, produce and a new EPA vision also provided a degree EPA-RPII merger. The development and be able to communicate this, possibly to bodies and waterways. fine pragmatic dignified people work use our energy lies at the heart of the of certainty with regard to the future ongoing implementation of the new EPA more reluctant management colleagues, tirelessly year after year of their lives to effort to tackle climate change. Water and direction of the merged organisation. In strategic plan provided an opportunity and also to staff in general. There is a To quote Richard Buckminster Fuller, deliver the top class water services they wastewater infrastructure is a significant need to be open and sensitive and to addition, on a personal level, it helped to strengthen the combined senior American inventor, designer and author, continue to provide. These are the people consumer of energy and reductions in leadership in the merged organisation appreciate that changing behaviours staff from both organisations to get to ‘Pollution is nothing but the resources continuing to pioneer, develop, and usage could be a major contributor in and in doing so pursue common takes time. However, at times it is also we are not harvesting. We allow them to innovate to serve the public providing meeting the public sector 2020 vision know each other and to build trust. goals. In some respects public service necessary to be resolute. Ultimate disperse because we’ve been ignorant to the efficient essential services they of improving energy efficiency by 33%. organisations have an advantage ownership of the merger rests with the their value.’ need. In public service, our creativity, Reducing water demand fundamentally The collaborative approach adopted in in this area as the concept of public management team and more especially achievements continue to touch each results in savings in water treatment, developing the new vision for the merged service encompasses a commitment its head. On one of the themes of 2017 world community’s lives in a meaningful way. water pumping, wastewater water is highlighting the symbiosis pumping wastewater treatment, and between water and wastewater to the Water & Climate change environmental savings due to reduced environment and wastewater as a “Water the prime essence of all life…….. assimilative demand in watercourses, valuable resource to the economy. This it’s too valuable to be wasted, used just water bodies. subject which I am about to cover is once.’’ Envoy Extraordinary a very broad area so in the interest of Water is nature’s gift to us, but, With renewable energy sources (RES) brevity here is a taster/sneak preview of unfortunately, civilisation’s pollution using home grown energy from Professor Smiddy of Cork some of the potential in this area. has led to water needing considerable renewables, we can cut our dependence treatment to make it potable. Like the air on imported fossil fuels, reduce by Eda Sagarra Public service workers the we breathe, water is essential for human greenhouse gas emissions and reduce professional providers leading a life, so we need to protect it. One of the our carbon footprint.

ISBN: 978-1-910393-22-2 Pages: 200 Price: €20.00

Professor Timothy Aloysius Smiddy (1875–1962) – academic, economist, diplomat, public servant and businessman – had a remarkable career spanning six decades in both the public service and the private sphere. This is the story of an eminent son of Cork, whose career was closely interwoven with the early history of the Irish state. Despite his unique role as adviser to Michael Collins, W.T. Cosgrave and Éamon de Valera, and his many achievements, Smiddy has remained an elusive figure in documented Irish history. This exhaustively researched biography sets that right. Having been educated in Ireland, France and Germany, Smiddy started and concluded his working life in the world of commerce. Fifteen years as an academic were followed by over twenty years as a public servant in various roles. He served on several high-profile committees and commissions between 1923 and 1956, some of which he chaired. Following his retirement from the public service at the age of seventy he continued to make a significant contribution, and was a successful chairman of the board of Arklow Pottery. Smiddy provided financial expertise to the Irish delegation to the Anglo-Irish Treaty negotiations (1921) and to the Provisional Government of the Irish Free State. He was the first representative of a Dominion of the British Commonwealth of Nations to the United States and Canada, from 1924 to 1929. Unusually for an important figure in the nascent Free State, he had not been involved in the conflicts of 1916–23. As an accomplished linguist with an international outlook, Smiddy helped to steer the Free State away from a narrowly insular mindset. In shedding light on his life and times, this biography also illuminates twentieth-century Irish history.

To order your copy contact: Publications Division, Institute of Public Administration

14 15 volatile fatty acids, biodegradable possible to estimate the shadow dosing the sludge quantities the biosphere which also results in polymers/ plastics, cellulose, prices of the undesirable outputs/ produced can be increased by up to severe local environmental effects. construction materials, metals pollutants, etc. A shadow price for 25% thus increasing sludge removal • Phosphorus can be recovered from including precious metals such as silver, these undesirable outputs is the cost also. Less energy intensive, used water, urine, and ash and adhesives, enzymes, Bio-fuels from algae equivalent of the environmental lower lifecycle costs are available sewage sludge. or cooking oils, etc. damage avoided if these pollutants using biological treatment systems • Phosphate recovery can achieve are removed or recovered i.e. an to recover nutrients in constructed full cost recovery through savings Let’s focus on recovery and valorisation estimating of the environmental wetlands, red beds etc. in maintenance costs avoiding of what is currently considered waste, benefits gained from the treatment • In addition external social costs unplanned p crystallisation in pipes by (using biological resources for the or recovery process. non-monetary green-house gases and valves while p crystals can production of value added products, • Environmental effects, can include, (e.g. C02, CH4) environmental become a valuable resource for the such as bio-energy, fuels, chemicals, eutrophication, ecosystems, nuisance such as noise, odours fertiliser industry. bio-based products fertilisers and much degradation etc. etc., should be factored in as added • The main focus on nutrient recovery more. • Inadequate used water treatment benefit of resource recovery. to date has been on chemical can potentially lead to pollution • To subsist overall treatment plants phosphorus products, which are Directive’s Environmental of water bodies that are sources for running cost there may also be proving very expensive, increasing Legislation programme governing As part of Tipperary County Council our The basic aim of this treatment is drinking water. future options to sell treated water / sludge removal costs with no this area: achievements to date include reducing produce an effluent (and sludge) with • The cost of no action/ doing new water to agriculture or industry financial gain from the phosphate The drivers are to address the water energy consumption and dependency appropriate quality to be released to the nothing is the shadow prices of among other uses. resource. framework and nitrates Directives, on grid electricity, generating renewable environment or re-used. pollutants and potential negative • Recapturing of used water derived sludge directive 2008/98 EC (WFD energy, reducing our costs and More than 99.5% by mass of used health effects. Current unsustainable issues phosphorus and selling it to 75/442/EC), 91/676/EEC, (86/278/EEC) environmental footprint (greenhouse water consists of water, representing an • Therefore, the discharge of used facing us which present great industry seems to be a clear solution and EPA water research programme gas emissions and climate change and enormous pool of recoverable resources. water, with inadequate treatment opportunity: for closing the phosphorus cycle 2014-2020, respectively. recycling our water services sludge as a With the treatment processes available involves generating significant • Biological nitrogen nutrient thus protecting the environment. natural fertiliser. today, used water can be treated to the costs, including environmental removal in used water treatment • Crystallization has been proven to Benefits of used water extent for any given reuse purpose, and social ones as well as potential plants is a significant resource be the established technology with management/treatment: There is also the potential for using including recycling as drinking water as benefits and revenue lost. recovery anthropogenic source of the highest percentage of recovery • Managing used water is linked to bio methane from sludge digestion, done in other countries. • Personal care products which nitrous oxide emissions with global resource for phosphorus, with a the entire water cycle. Studies have as a transport fuel to further reduce contain Micro plastics, warming potential some 300 times recovery rate exceeding 90% and shown that in terms of discharges C02 emissions. Our innovations with Only around 4% of treated water is used Diclofenac, Tonalide, Galaxolide, that of C02 appears to be the most effective from waste water treatment sludge management also reduces costs for drinking or cooking the rest goes Sulfamethoxazole, Ethinyl Eatradiol • Nutrients discharged have process is obtaining struvite in plants they can account for a high to the taxpayer, improves water quality, down the toilet or drain. have significant effects on the the environmental effects of which nitrogen is recovered in proportion of the receiving water in reduces the volume of sludge being Through the natural water cycle the environment and in some countries eutrophication, ecosystems, addition to phosphorus. The winter and a higher proportion of removed off our sites reducing truck earth has recycled and re-used water the shadow prices compared with degradation reduced biodiversity recovery of struvite also greatly receiving water in summer in terms movements thus reducing transport for millions of years, but in order to aid the environmental cost of removal due to growth of algae, etc. reduces blockages in plants, thus of its load of solids organic matter CO2 climate changing emissions. and accelerate this process to meet our is being look at. • Nutrient recovery can be divided reducing running costs. and nutrients. needs we have to work with nature using into three sections accumulation, • Used water management treatment By thinking globally, acting locally, we technology. It is estimated at present Costs currently associated with release and extraction in which Some options: Recovery and should be a productive process in are also helping reduce the vulnerability that 40% of average household demand treatment and options: nutrient products are recovered in Opportunities: which a desirable output (treated of the world population to climate could be met using grey water. • Sludge (bio solids) management is the last step. • The cost of inorganic fertiliser water) is obtained together with change. the most important cost factor in • Phosphorus is vital for plants and continues to rise. a series of undesirable outputs Used water, new water: used water management and can crops it is limited and diminishing • New innovation for nitrogen (suspended solids, heavy metals, The term wastewater incorrectly gives account for up to 40% of the plants and there is currently no substitute recovery is via ion exchange nutrients, etc., using inputs (labour, The term wastewater: the impression that water is considered operating and maintenance costs for it. membranes. energy, etc.). Wastewater (used water) : A combination waste, when in fact it is used water. I including sludge removal off site. • Phosphorus production is • In terms of the agricultural, • Used water treatment facilities are of one or more of, domestic effluent propose wastewater should be viewed • Treatment Facilities total operating anticipated to enter a long slow economic value of the organic critical infrastructure for urban consisting of blackwater (excreta, through a new paradigm-as ‘water that and maintenance costs include decline once the peak has been phosphorus and nitrogen contained societies and provide essential urine and faecal sludge)and grey water is wasted.’ Treated water from recovery (energy, staff, reagents, waste reached, which is estimated to occur in the dry sludge collected from protection for both the aquatic (kitchen and bathing wastewater), facilities should then be called new management and maintenance. by year 2033. wastewater plants this is significant, environment, human health and water from commercial establishments water. • Energy and maintenance costs are • Phosphorus is mined from non- excluding the economic value of ecological benefits. and institutions, including hospitals: a high proportion of operating and renewable elemental deposits and centrates and digestates. • Used water management can be industrial effluent, storm water and Used water a vast potential maintenance (O & M) costs followed 90% of the world’s phosphate • Supernatant (digestate from grouped into two general categories other urban run-off: agricultural, resource: by substantial reagent costs reserves can be found in just five digestion and centrates could also market and non-market benefits. horticultural, aquaculture, either Used water contains potentially associated with chemical dosing countries. be made available as a slow release • Consideration from this production dissolved or as suspended matter. marketable products such as proteins, nutrient removal. • Mining of phosphorus rock fertilizer, and provide a potential process perspective also makes it • In addition to the cost of chemical increases the amount of cadmium to source of revenue.

16 17 • Current factors, such as, of electricity and heat (thermal • Biomass is currently the most cost transportation and land application energy) for processes. effective way to produce renewable Local Economic Development are additional costs that also need • Start co-digestion using feedstock, liquid fuels. to be case studied to direct recovery from council sites, etc., as an energy • Biodiesel is one such fuel which options, in addition to bord bia crop, to feed our existing anaerobic works well in diesel engines and does By Laura Shannon, IPA agricultural restrictions on land digesters, to increase production of not produce as much air pollution spreading. both electricity and heat. as burning petroleum fuels. Used • Use of inlet screenings as a resource, cooking oil, often thrown into In recent years, the economic advice to promote online trading. Recovery of Metals: fuel rather than disposing as a waste. sewers can also be converted to Northern Ireland development role of Irish local Local government in Northern Ireland It is predicted that the supply of nickel • Public Water services sites also biodiesel. and zinc will be exhausted within 50 have potential for the installation authorities has been strengthened, in In 2016, local economic and community was extensively reformed in 2015. line with international trends towards plans (LECPs) were adopted in all Structurally, 11 ‘super councils’ replaced years. Also reducing these and copper of renewable energy technologies Residual Products: place-based growth. This article, based local authority areas, expanding the the existing 26 councils. With the loadings significantly will improve including micro turbines, DifGens Once optimum energy and optimum on a recently published IPA Local role of local authorities in economic exception of Belfast City Council, which recreational fishing in the discharge on pipe networks, solar, wind, resource recovery have been achieved river, boosting tourism. In Ireland, the hydro, geothermal, etc., to subsist Government Research Series report, development further. LECPs represent was extended, all other councils were from used water there remains provides an overview of the role of a coordinated approach to local formed by merging two or more existing driving force for metals recovery could power demand on site and export marketable products. In the case of alum be the EPA stipulation, such as, the power to the grid when surplus to selected subnational governments in community and economic development, local authorities. The new councils sludge from potable water treatment levels of cadmium and nickel in soil site demand. local economic development. led by the city and county councils. This were also provided with additional plants one such re-use option being used must be less than 1mg/kg and 30mg/ • In the future Instead of consuming approach improves the alignment of the responsibilities and powers primarily abroad is in the cement industry, which kg respectively for use of sludge to be energy wastewater treatment could The OECD (2013) define local economic actions of the local authorities, agencies in the areas of local planning, local will also lead to reduced co2 emissions. applied to land. Common methods also use MFC’s (microbial fuel cells development as “a cross cutting and and local community and voluntary economic and tourism development of removing metals involve physical and other technologies to turn integrated activity where the physical groups involved in the economic and and off street parking. Specific functions Learning, Future, Credits: adsorption, electro dialysis and through treatment plants into power plants. development of a place is linked to community development of their impacting economic development biological and membrane processes the • Due to agricultural restrictions in Our track record of accomplishments public service, place management, areas, ensuring that they are working transferred to the new councils are latter becoming more widely employed. relation to the use of wastewater speaks for itself. We are venturesome and wider drivers of change such to common objectives and shared goals. outlined in Table 1. sludge in the production of fruit and are keenly trying new ideas using as employment, skills, investment, Local authorities, working with the Further potential resource and vegetables crops for human entrepreneurial, intrapreneurial spirit. enterprise, innovation, productivity, Department of Business, Enterprise and Alongside the devolution of specific recovery & facilities: consumption, it is prudent to look The course of continued innovation will quality of life, and positioning” (p. 9). Innovation, are also coordinating the functions, councils were also provided • Wastewater typically contains to other alternatives outlets, such involve commitment as did our previous Local government plays a key leadership implementation of the Regional Action with a new general power of competence many times more energy than is as, bioremediation - applying used innovations. We are best placed in role in this kind of local integration. Plans for Jobs. to allow a council to act in its own interest needed for treatment. water sludge on biomass energy providing this service as we continue on and develop innovative approaches to • High energy from combustion of crops, willow & miscantus, forestry, this wonderful journey. Local government in Ireland As noted in an OECD review of local help improve the economic, social and the organics in typical domestic cereals for animal feeds, etc. I would like to thank our senior traditionally plays a significant role development in Ireland (OECD, 2013), environmental well-being of its area, wastewater is 6000mj/1000m3. • Budget 2017 allows relief from management for their assistance and in relation to economic development, the reforms presented Ireland with unless there is a law to prevent it from • The majority of recovered energy carbon tax for solid fuels that support, in all that we have achieved so from planning and development the opportunity to follow the path doing so. from used water treatment plants include biomass to incentivise far. Finally, I would like to thank all those services, to provision of transport, water of many OECD countries in creating can be used on site in the form increased usage of greener fuels. who gave their time in contributing. and environmental infrastructure. new environments for economic Councils are also leading a community In 2014, as part of the wider reform development. planning process. The new duty of process, this role was strengthened community planning requires councils through the creation of Local Enterprise Role of selected local governments as the lead partner to be responsible for Offices (LEOs) as offices within the 31 in economic development making arrangements for community local authorities to provide enhanced In general, a trend towards bottom-up planning in their areas. They will resources to support start-ups and local and regional development can be work with statutory bodies and their microenterprises in their areas. LEOs observed globally alongside devolution communities to develop and implement provide a range of financial and non- of powers to the subnational level and a shared vision for promoting the well- financial support to their clients. shift from ‘government’ to ‘governance’. being of an area, community cohesion The National Oversight and Audit These trends have resulted in the reform and improving the quality of life of its Commission (NOAC, 2018) reported of subnational governance and the citizens. The plans intend to encourage that in 2016 LEOs assisted businesses to increasing role of local authorities in sustainable development by linking create an additional 3,355 whole time economic development. Alongside this, service delivery, long term objectives equivalent jobs, and provided one-to- local service integration is resulting in of an area, and physical planning and one mentoring to 7,564 participants, the increasing use of one-stop shops regeneration. while 1,141 small businesses were for employment and job creation at the approved for the Trading Online local level. A snapshot of the activities Knox and Carmichael (2015) note Voucher Scheme, which offers financial of local governments in three different that, in the absence of key functional assistance along with training and jurisdictions is provided below. responsibilities, community planning

18 19 and the general power of competence 11 to coordinate economic development 2016 demonstrated the wide range of Table 1 – Additional economic development related functions transferred to local government in Northern offers significant opportunities and growth policy in local areas. They economic activities provided for by Ireland in 2015. for local government in Northern have a close working relationship with councils, including, but not limited to: Ireland. The first set of community local authorities (and any combined • Economic development strategy Planning • Local development plan functions plans are beginning to emerge authority) in their area, frequently with development • Development control and enforcement following extensive consultation with councillors sitting on their management • Visitor marketing and promotion, citizens. The representative body for boards, but they are not formally i-SITEs councils, the Northern Ireland Local accountable to local authorities. There • Events Local economic • Start a Business Programme and Enterprise Shows Government Association (NILGA), are currently 39 LEPs across England. • Information and intelligence, data while welcoming the additional powers gathering on local economic state development • Youth Entrepreneurship (such as Prince’s Trust and Shell Livewire) transferred in 2015, believe that further LEPs are the primary mechanism for • Infrastructure projects aimed at (transfer from • Social Entrepreneurship functions should be considered for channelling a £12 billion Local Growth growing a specific industry Invest NI) • Investing for Women devolution including further economic Fund. This funding is negotiated • Case management of businesses development functions such as between LEPs and central government through council processes • Neighbourhood Renewal funding relating to enterprises initiatives. coordinating skills development, and through ‘Local Growth Deals’. • Main street development regeneration powers (NILGA, 2016). Alongside this share of the Local Growth programmes Local tourism • Small scale tourism accommodation development Fund, LEPs also have responsibility for • Investment attraction England drawing up investment plans for over • International relations • Providing business support including business start-up advice along with One of the key focuses for central £5 billion of European Structural and • Skills and talent initiatives training and delivery of customer care schemes government in England in their Investment Funds for 2014 to 2020. • Grants for economic development • Providing advice to developers on tourism policies and related issues approach to local growth is the shift • Government contractual of power to local communities and New Zealand relationships businesses. In recent years, there has Local government in New Zealand • Enterprise development services for economic development through been a varying range of devolution consists of 61 territorial councils (11 city • Industry development the establishment of Local Enterprise measures put in place. councils and 50 district councils), 11 • Incentives for businesses Offices, the preparation of Local regional, and 6 unitary councils (which • Innovation support services (LGNZ, Economic and Community Plans and The Cities and Local Government are territorial councils with regional 2017). their involvement with Regional Action Devolution Act 2016 provides the legal council responsibilities). Regional Plans for Jobs. The possible introduction framework for the implementation councils are primarily concerned with The survey also indicated a wide range of metropolitan planning, as outlined in of devolution deals with combined environmental resource management, of institutional arrangements for the recent National Planning Framework, authorities and other areas. The Act flood control, air and water quality, pest managing the economic development provides a further opportunity for local is intended to support delivery of the control, and, in specific cases, public work programmes. Most councils authorities to drive growth and provide Government’s manifesto commitment transport, regional parks, and bulk reported having in-house economic better environments for their citizens. to devolve powers and budgets to boost water supply. Territorial authorities development expertise located within a local growth in England, in particular are responsible for a wide range of single team or unit, or within multiple This article is based on a recently to devolve far-reaching powers over local services including roads, water teams or units. The second and third published IPA Local Government economic development, transport, and reticulation, sewerage and refuse most common arrangements were Research Series report, available on social care to large cities which choose collection, libraries, parks, recreation regional tourism organisations and the IPA website at: https://www.ipa. to have elected mayors. services, local regulations, community council controlled organisations. ie/research-papers/local-government- and economic development, and town research.684.html The Act also provides for an elected planning. Conclusion mayor for a combined authority’s area. The literature and case studies examined References On 5 May 2017, six mayors were elected Councils, however, can differ widely in the report highlight the international for the first time to lead combined in relation to activities they undertake, trends towards place-based economic Knox, C., and Carmichael, P. (2015). Local government authorities in Cambridgeshire and as long as they have consulted their growth and devolution of functions reform: Community planning and the quality of life in Peterborough, Greater Manchester, communities in making the decisions. to subnational governments. There Northern Ireland. Administration, 63 (2), pp. 31-57. LGNZ. (2017). Better economic development in local Liverpool City Region, the Tees As a result, there is considerable is strong rationale for broadly based government – A discussion paper. LGNZ: Wellington. Valley, the West of England and the diversity in the range of activities that systems of local government, with National Oversight and Audit Commission. (2018). West Midlands. Devolution deals had councils provide, reflecting the different a wide range of functions and fiscal Performance Indicators in Local Authorities 2016, NOAC Report No.14 – January 2018. previously been agreed with these areas. circumstances that cities, towns and autonomy, to be the drivers of growth Northern Ireland Local Government Association. (2016). A communities find themselves in. For in their local areas. These international programme for local government 2016 -2021 and beyond. Retrieved from: http://www.nilga.org/getattachment/ While devolution has been undertaken the 2014-2015 financial year, New trends are, to some extent, mirrored d133718f-e000-4bc2-9da2-78470220c68c/A- on an ad hoc basis, all parts of England Zealand’s local government sector in Ireland’s recent reform of local PROGRAMME-FOR-LOCAL-GOVERNMENT-2016-2021- are covered by (at least) one Local spent an estimated $248 million on economic development at subnational BEY.aspx [07 September 2017] OECD. (2013). Delivering Local Development: Ireland. Enterprise Partnership (LEP). These are the delivery of economic development level. Local authorities have been OECD Publishing: Paris. voluntary bodies, established in 2010- services. A survey by LGNZ in late provided with increased responsibilities

20 21 Abbey Quarter, which will support the (14,489 people) have completed a For further information: Neasa Kane- Third Level Campus Identified as a Driver early delivery of a third level campus.” Technical/Vocational qualification, Fine, RPS Group, 087-232 0038 (For an Apprenticeship / Advanced Kilkenny County Council) While no formal arrangements have Certificate or a Higher Certificate. for Kilkenny’s Economy and to retain local been put in place to deliver on any of Sources: Neasa Kane-Fine, RPS Group the options put forward in the Report, The report is available at www. and Andrea Wesolowsk, RPS Group. Kilkenny County Council is committed Kilkennycoco.ie. people in the county to fully exploring the potential opportunities identified with the key stakeholders. The Report notes that the A Report commissioned by Kilkenny in funding capital expenditure for for a third level campus. The Abbey Steering Group for the establishment County Council finds that there is an third level buildings and associated Quarter urban renewal project in the of the TUSE is due to report with its educational, social and economic case infrastructure. Colette Byrne, Chief heart of Kilkenny city would be greatly strategy for progressing same by next for locating a higher education campus Executive of Kilkenny County Council enhanced with a vibrant academic September. Cllr David Fitzgerald, to cater for 1,000 students in Kilkenny underlined that “we not only have the community, in keeping with the Abbey Chairman, Kilkenny County Council and that all options should be explored economic case for higher education, Quarter Masterplan. Design guidelines noted that “we will, as recommended, including tying into the proposed we also have the right space to provide have recently been adopted for the keep an open mind on what would Technological University of the South work best for Kilkenny. I acknowledge East (TUSE) being jointly pursued by the general support from Waterford IT Waterford IT and IT Carlow. Minister and IT Carlow for our Report and I also with Special Responsibility for Higher look forward to hearing how Kilkenny Education, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, will feature in their joint strategy for the TD, was in Kilkenny to launch the Report TUSE.” that recommends any third level facility should be based on the County’s niche • The report “From Charter to areas to create an international centre Framework: The Case for Higher of excellence that reflect the county’s Education Provision in Kilkenny”, economic activities and strengths. This finds that participation in post- would include focusing on education secondary education in the South- and training in the design, crafts, East region is broadly comparable animation, heritage, tourism and the with national rates with some agri-food sectors, for which Kilkenny is notable differences. Nationally, 44% synonymous. Such a centre of excellence Minister with Special Responsibility for Higher Education, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, TD at of school leavers transfer to higher would create a competitive context into the Parade Tower in Kilkenny with (L-R) Cllr David Fitzgerald, Chairman, Kilkenny County education, compared with 50% for which a wider range of providers are Council and Colette Byrne, Chief Executive of Kilkenny County Council launching a Report Kilkenny. The rest of the region also likely to enter, broadening the potential recommending a third level facility for Kilkenny that would be an international centre of demonstrates participation rates choices for the Council, and ultimately excellence for education and training in the areas of design, crafts, animation, heritage, in higher education at or above the the prospect of successful, high quality tourism and the agri-food industry. The Report was commissioned by Kilkenny County national average. In contrast, 28% and sustainable education and training Council and demonstrates an educational, social and economic case for locating a higher education campus to cater for 1,000 students in Kilkenny. are enrolled in second level/FET provision in the city. “Kilkenny Picture Dylan Vaughan. programmes nationally compared County Council is already developing with only 23% of Kilkenny students; proposals for centres of excellence in Tipperary South, Waterford City the areas of precision agriculture and and Wexford are above the national design thinking with Waterford IT average. and IT Carlow respectively. Kilkenny • The case for a higher education is synonymous with high quality Irish facility in Kilkenny is further craft / design and the agri-food industry reinforced when considered in and a third level campus would serve to the context of latest CSO (2016) further build on these areas of expertise census figures that show 23% of and strengthen the County’s economy,” the County’s population is Under said Minister with Special Responsibility 15 years of age (23% of 99,232 total for Higher Education, Mary Mitchell population); 19% of the population O’Connor, TD. (19,377 people) have obtained a third level Diploma / Degree or The Council is well aware of the higher; while a further 14.6% limitations in the Exchequer finances

22 23 success factors in addressing vacant Good Practice Seminar For Local and derelict homes in private ownership. Louth County Council decided to acquire the housing Authority Staff Aims To Build On Innovative by the Compulsory Purchase Order process. Once acquired, the Council refurbished them. This Approaches Taken To Further Improve solution to dereliction and anti- social behaviour in a housing estate Service Delivery also made more homes available for people on the Council’s housing list. On foot of the initiative, some property owners in the community have renovated and rented out The National Oversight and Audit properties that were vacant up to Commission (NOAC), in association with now. local authorities, held a Good Practice in

Local Government seminar on Tuesday, • The introduction of solar powered 21st November 2017 in Kilkenny Castle. compacting smart litter bins to Welcoming the seminar, Minister John address an inefficient litter bin Paul Phelan stated that the seminar was service, had excellent results for addressing a selection of the many initiatives Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County taken by local authorities that highlight Council. Web-based technology interesting, diverse and often highly allows its team to monitor real time innovative approaches to addressing the capacity and litter levels at each of challenges that both local authorities and its 400 smart litter bins. The number our communities face. It demonstrates the of litter bins was reduced but the ability by local authorities to adapt to the overall capacity of litter bins was many reforms and how it manages demands increased. The system has resulted and constraints, while continuing to deliver in up to 85% fewer bin collections excellent services. “Local authorities in and operational savings of up to Ireland continuously strive to deliver top- 75% for the service. class services. This Good Practice Seminar

is an opportunity to showcase examples of • The social and economic solutions-oriented approaches to providing regeneration of Kilkenny’s Abbey public services,” said Pat McLoughlin, Chair Quarter involves developing the of NOAC. “The case studies being presented former Smithwicks Brewery site illustrate the sector’s desire to improve efficiency in the service delivery, engage meaningfully with citizens and regenerate urban and rural areas.”

Speakers from local authorities across Ireland presented case studies, including,

• Monaghan County Council reduced the turnaround time for re-letting its housing from nearly 20 weeks to just 8 weeks thanks to changes in work processes and procedures. This included simple measures such as transferring to a paperless file system and using mobile devices to ensure non-office based staff had instant access to accurate information when and where they needed it.

• Louth County Council has had some

24 25 adjoining Kilkenny’s medieval quarter. The project will create both jobs and high quality public spaces and is an example of the work of local New community being planned for Clonburris authorities in cities, towns and villages throughout Ireland to regenerate their Strategic Development Zone lands local areas.

• Many would be familiar with Waterford Greenway. In addition to a tourism product this is part of an initiative being driven by A new community is being planned Waterford City and County Council for South Dublin County on the lands to implement a smarter travel that make up the Clonburris Strategic initiative in the County. Dungarvan Development Zone. The SDZ lands, was selected as a Smarter Travel comprising approximately 280 hectares, Demonstration Town, and following are located between the established investment funded by the Department communities of Lucan, Clondalkin of Transport, Tourism and Sport, the and Liffey Valley. The lands have been town has been transformed to support designated by the Government as a commuters who are walking and Major Urban Housing Development Site cycling to work and school. and South Dublin County Council is confident that the Clonburris SDZ will • Since 2014 the Skellig Region has have a central role to play in addressing been designated as an International the demand for new housing in Dublin. Gold Tier Dark Sky Reserve. This is seen as a key attraction for an area The Draft Planning Scheme for the SDZ that has experienced economic lands aims to achieve a shared outlook and population decline. Kerry for the future development of the new County Council is working with community at Clonburris. The scale and stakeholders to enhance the quality potential of the SDZ lands, together with of the experience. The Council itself existing unique selling points, which is retrofitting the street lighting with include the Grand Canal, Griffeen dark sky LED lighting in the 700 Valley Park, and the Kildare rail line, square kilometre reserve. offer an excellent starting point for the development of a forward thinking, • Other projects showcased included innovative and vibrant community in innovative approaches to budgeting South Dublin County. by South Dublin County Council and digital engagement with citizens The Draft Planning Scheme is currently in Cork County Council, along project to deliver a target of 8,437 new with examples of evidence based homes for approximately 21,000 people, approaches to policy development 90 hectares of Parks and Open Spaces, being used by the sector. 7,300 square metres gross community floor space, approximately 21,520 • The research conducted by Kildare square metres gross retail floor space County Council, who worked in and 31,115 square metres employment partnership with NUI Maynooth, to floor space. The Scheme will include the ensure their policies are informed by provision of three primary and three data, is a fine example of the approach post primary schools. Approximately to evidence based policy taken by 72% of housing will be located within local authorities throughout Ireland. 500m of schools and approximately 98% of residents will be able to access a For further information: bus stop within 400m or a train station [email protected] within 800m, thereby significantly reducing dependence on the private car. Source: The lands will be serviced by two train Neasa Kane-Fine, RPS Group Plc, contact: 087- stations at Kishoge and Clondalkin/ 232 0038 (For Kilkenny County Council)

26 27 Education alliance to benefit cross border education provision and opportunities

On February, 23rd, 2018, the North Richard Bruton T.D. was in attendance and Strabane District Council West Strategic Growth Partnership, in at the signing and endorsed this historic and Donegal County Council and partnership with the Higher and Further Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) supported by the International Education and Training Institutions of stating, “today’s announcement is a Centre for Local and Regional the North West City Region, announced fantastic development for the North Development (ICLRD). It is a new agreement in education, training West region. This new partnership will a unique inter-jurisdictional and innovation for the North West greatly enhance collaboration between structure, endorsed by both Fonthill, approximately a 15-minute City region with the signing of a the education and training providers in Governments through the North train journey from Dublin City Centre. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) key areas such as research, innovation South Ministerial Council. The The lands are also well connected to between education sector providers on and education and training. Brexit will NWSGP consists of Council senior the N4 and N7 National Routes by three both sides of the border. pose a significant challenge to our higher leadership and senior government Regional Roads, including the Outer The MoU is the result of years of successful and further education institutions. officials from across Government Ring Road. collaborative working amongst the Through our Action Plan for Education, administrations in Northern education sector providers – the Ulster which aims to make Ireland’s education Ireland and the Republic of Ireland On 1st of February 2018, the elected University, Letterkenny Institute for system the best in Europe within a who meet bi-annually to bring members of South Dublin County Technology (LYIT), North West Regional decade, we are preparing our education about real and positive change for Council resolved to make the Draft College (NWRC) and Donegal Education and training providers to respond to the North West City region. Using Planning Scheme for the Clonburris and Training Board (ETB) - with the aim this challenge. Talent drives the success international best practice in place- Strategic Development Zone, subject of improving access to higher and further of any region and strong hubs will be based leadership for development, to variations and modifications. Public level education and training to students the engine of regional development. the NWSGP provides a joined-up Consultation of the Draft Planning living and studying in the North West Today’s partnership is a very welcome forum and implementation space Scheme ended on 20th of April 2018 with City region. The North West Strategic development, which will have a really for collaborative working to release South Dublin County Council’s Chief Growth Partnership is led by Derry significant impact on the North West the full potential of the North Executive, Daniel McLoughlin, now City and Strabane District Council and region.” West City Region. Funding for the preparing a report on the submissions Donegal County Council and supported work of the NW Strategic Growth received for the consideration of the by the International Centre for Local • The North West City Region is Partnership and NW Regional Elected Members. If the Planning and Regional Development (ICLRD) comprised of the administrative Development Group is being Scheme is approved, Clonburris will in conjunction with and supported area of Donegal County Council provided by the Executive Office develop over the next 20 years. The by The Executive Office and The Irish and Derry City and Strabane District and the Irish Government. land is in multiple ownerships, so Government. Council. • Ulster University As Northern development will take place at different • The North West Strategic Growth Ireland’s civic university, Ulster times across the entire site. The speed at The Minister for Education and Skills Partnership is led by Derry City University is grounded in the heart which developments will progress may of the community and strives to depend on the market. make a lasting contribution to society as a whole. Renowned for Mr. Daniel McLoughlin, Chief its world class teaching, Ulster aims Executive of South Dublin County to transform lives, stretch minds Council emphasised that “this Council and develop the skills required by a is committed to achieving the best growing economy. possible outcome for the development • Letterkenny Institute of Technology of the SDZ lands, in partnership Dublin. The Draft Planning Scheme For further information, please visit (LYIT) attracts a mix of 4,000+ with SDZ landowners and a range of for the Strategic Development Zone will www.clonburris.ie students both from the local area key stakeholders. The co-ordinated allow the construction of housing in and from across the globe. Modern development of the lands at Clonburris close co-ordination with the delivery of Source: integrated campuses in Letterkenny represents an opportunity for South Niall Noonan, Communications Manager, public transport infrastructure, schools, and Killybegs encourage strong Dublin County to directly respond South Dublin County Council,nnoonan@ community facilities, parks, retail and academic learning and career to the demand for new housing in SDUBLINCOCO.ie employment related development”. focused practical experience.

28 29 alignment of a cross border further and higher education cluster in the North West City region is essential if the region Social Housing Construction Status Report is to grow and develop its education offering and maximise the emerging and Delivery Targets for Local Authorities potential for those who wish to live, work and invest in this region.“The signing of the MoU between the education 2018-2021 are published providers in the region is very significant and is testament to the huge amount On Thursday, April 19th, 2018, Minister transparency and accountability at individual local authority level on the of positive work that has been done Eoghan Murphy, T.D., Minister individual local authority level on the delivery of the targets under Rebuilding behind the scenes to really look at how for Housing, Planning and Local delivery of the targets under Rebuilding Ireland. I called upon each local we can develop education, research and Government published the Quarter Ireland. On foot of a detailed process authority to provide a detailed delivery innovation foundations for the North 4 2017 Social Housing Construction of engagement since then between the report, which would be used to assess will allow the partners to work together West region. This alliance will allow us Projects Status Report, which sets out Minister’s Department and individual prospective delivery in 2018 and also • North West Regional College as anchors of the economy of the region to design and deliver new courses and the progress made to date in advancing local authorities, the Minister in a letter across the period out to 2021. This also (NWRC) is the largest provider and contribute to the advancement of the programmes that will support economic the construction pipeline, as well as to all Chief Executives dated 18th April, represented an important opportunity of professional and technical North West City Region growth agenda and social development and improve social housing delivery targets for local 2018 (see below), has advised all local to demonstrate the strong delivery to education and training across the that investments in higher and further efficiency through shared staffing and authorities for 2018-2021. At the end- authorities of their minimum Social date and enhanced capacity building city region with some 15,000 full- education can achieve with added value facilities on a range of programmes, 2017, 2,512 homes were completed, Housing Targets both for 2018 and also in each local authority and so, in time and part-time enrolments. for everyone.” Mayor of Derry City and teaching and research. Key to this 3,650 were under construction and 1,912 for the multi-annual period to 2021 (see publishing delivery and targets for the • Donegal Education and Training Strabane District Council Cllr Maolíosa alliance is the positive impact it will further homes were about to go on site, Appendix 2). “Under the targets I have years ahead, we will be able to highlight Board (ETB) is the county’s largest McHugh stated that, “this is a significant have on our students and the way it will with the remainder progressing through announced today, a minimum of 40,700 ambition, commitment and progress. provider of a broad range of event for education growth in our region open up new opportunities for them as the various stages of planning, design homes will be delivered during the 4 educational and training services and is in keeping with the objective set well as encourage and facilitate wider and procurement. The programme year period to end-2021, including over I wish to thank you for the detailed including further education and out by the North West Strategic Growth participation in education programmes.” includes 850 schemes (or phases) at the 7,800 this year alone. Taking account of report provided, which has now been training services for 12,000 full- Partnership to promote cross cutting Furthermore, Leo Murphy, Principal end of last year, delivering over 13,400 the progress already made in 2016 and fully assessed by my Department and time and part-time learners; 15 regional growth in the education sector. and Chief Executive of North West homes, compared to 8,430 homes in the 2017, this will ensure that the 50,000 account has also been taken of the work post primary schools and colleges I am confident that the MoU will give Regional College said the MoU will programme a year earlier. target will be met.” In addition, the of the Housing Delivery Office, led by (5,000+ students), outdoor the two governments the mechanism contribute greatly to the outcomes of the Housing Assistance Payment and Rental Minister Damien English who have been education and training, music with which to engage with the Further and Higher Education Strategy Minister Murphy stated that “the Accommodation Schemes will continue actively visiting and working intensively education and co-ordination of education institutions to deliver on our in the City and Region. “Anything building of new social housing homes by to play an important part in meeting with each of you over the past 3 months. youth service provision. shared further and higher educational that facilitates student mobility and local authorities and approved housing social housing needs; some 18,000 On foot of this extensive work, today I ambitions and further enhance cross participation in education is to be bodies is ramping up dramatically as we households targeted for support under am publishing detailed minimum social An Cathaoirleach of Donegal County border co-operation.” welcomed and this MoU will go a long can see in this construction report. These these schemes in 2018. housing targets for each local authority Council Cllr Gerry McMonagle way towards assisting us in facilitating numbers don’t include new builds under and the details in respect of your local underlined that the signing of the Similarly, Professor Paddy Nixon, further cross border co-operation in Part V, voids, acquisitions or long term Letter from the Office of the Minister to authority area are reflected in Appendix MoU was hugely significant for the Vice Chancellor of Ulster University teaching, learning and innovation.” leases so the actual stock of new social all Chief Executives of Local Authorities: A. region. “The MoU builds on the outlined that “this landmark agreement Anne McHugh, Chief Executive of housing coming on stream is even greater excellent collaborative work previously demonstrates our shared vision to create Donegal Education Training Board than this”. In the latter part of 2017, Dear Chief Executive, Later this month, I intend to commence undertaken between the partners a regional strategic alliance for the added that she is confident this alliance Minister Murphy secured additional The first quarter of 2018 is now behind key provisions of the Housing to support regional growth through North West, that drives innovation and will provide effective progression funding to increase the overall level of us and I know that you and your teams (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 delivering on the higher and further investment and delivers co-ordinated pathways for students and graduates to ambition under Rebuilding Ireland in are working very hard to accelerate relating to the establishment of the terms education needs of the North West. It cross border third level education to higher education. “This is great news the period to 2021, and also signalled and drive social housing provision in of a new affordable housing scheme, the people of this region and beyond. for the education sector in the North a rebalancing of the strands of delivery your local authority areas. It is critical including the scheme of priorities In practical terms, this consolidates the West and a really positive collaboration towards construction projects. Overall, that this work continues and indeed and assessment criteria for eligible excellent collaboration that is already between education providers on both the Government has now committed intensifies over the coming months applicants, and will also be setting out operating informally and embeds this sides of the border. The MoU will assist €6 billion to support the accelerated and you can be assured that I and my targets for the delivery of affordable partnership working model across our us in achieving many of the strategic delivery of 50,000 additional social Department will continue to be here to homes for purchase or cost rental to be regional network. Today’s agreement goals set out in our Further Education housing homes by end 2021, through support you deliver much needed homes delivered primarily on local authority will allow for a more co-ordinated and Training Strategy 2014-19 to ensure build (33,500), acquisition (6,500) and in your local area, in whatever way we lands under the new scheme. approach to student pathway and active inclusion, integrated planning leasing (10,000) programmes. can. progression and marks a step change and funding and quality provision.” National Targets under Rebuilding in our approach to delivery of quality One of the key outcomes of the second One of the key outcomes of the second Ireland Source: education in the North West.” Also Paul Housing Summit with local authority Housing Summit, held earlier this year, As you are aware, across the period 2016- Hannigan, President of Letterkenny Anne Marie Conlon, Communications Manager, Chief Executives held earlier in 2018 was a commitment to drive greater 2021, the published national delivery Institute of Technology noted that the Donegal County Council,AMCONLON@ donegalcoco.ie was a commitment to drive greater transparency and accountability at target under Rebuilding Ireland is 50,000

30 31 additional social housing homes. Of The reports provided by each local need. Harnessing the off-balance sheet as a limit. The ultimate objective is long-term leasing of newly built units Construction Status Report. the 50,000, 33,500 (67%) will be built, authority have informed calibration potential of private investment in social to deliver the maximum number of from developers. 6,500 (13%) will be acquired and 10,000 of the national delivery target of 7,869 housing is an important objective of the appropriate units for social housing. As I indicated previously, there can be (20%) will be leased properties. homes into individual local authority Government. While it is acknowledged Where is it more feasible from a value, Keeping projects on track no impediments or barriers to delivery, targets, separated into build, acquisition that pipeline visibility is restricted or market availability perspective, to As the programmes across all delivery whether it be social or affordable homes. In 2018, the published national delivery and leasing. The results of this calibration by the shorter lead in times for leased deliver a higher number of acquisitions streams intensify, I am requesting that With our streamlined approval processes, target under Rebuilding Ireland is 7,869 against existing pipelines, will result units, the templates included a section than targeted, and where other delivery as Chief Executive, you ensure that your the range of new schemes introduced additional social homes. This, of course, in a revised 2018 target for some local for prospective leasing opportunities. streams are not available in 2018, local local authority has appropriate oversight to support delivery, the additional is in addition to the housing solutions authorities than the indicative target Leasing output across local authorities authorities should engage with the and project management systems in staffing and enhanced professional fee that will be delivered under the Housing already provided. has exceeded annual targets for the Department as early as possible. place to keep projects on track. It is structure and with capital and current Assistance Payment Scheme and Rental last number of years. This is a strong In addition, harnessing the capacity absolutely critical that the delivery funding of over €6 billion ring-fenced Accommodation Scheme. The 7,869 This does not affect the overall local indication of the potential that exists but of vacant properties for social housing pipeline that is in place for 2018, is under Rebuilding Ireland, I know we includes 4,969 homes that will be authority target across the period 2018- having regard to the significant increase remains a key priority. Where acquisition delivered in 2018. Delivery teams in can accelerate the delivery of quality built, 900 acquired and 2,000 leased 2021, which is based on the portion of in the leasing targets for 2018, I am is the most suitable delivery mechanism, my Department, including the Housing homes speedily for citizens. Indeed, with properties. Of the build target of 4,969, the national Summary of Social Housing asking all local authorities to carefully the Department will support local Delivery Office, will work in partnership renewed commitment and urgency on all some 3,819 homes are profiled to come Assessments (SSHA) appropriate to your re-assess their delivery ambition under authorities in this regard;, however, the with local authorities to assist with our parts, I am confident that 2018 will from local authority and approved local authority. A further annual target this very important delivery stream. possibilities under long-term leasing, accelerated delivery, and to source and be a year of great progress and delivery. housing body build programmes, with setting process will take place early each the Repair and Leasing Scheme and the drive additional opportunities where Finally, I would be grateful if you could the balance to come from Part V and year, assessing delivery to date, with Leased properties can be sourced from a Buy & Renew Scheme should also be appropriate. The new timelines recently provide a copy of this letter to elected Voids. pipeline activity and national targets. range of different sources, using varying considered by local authorities when agreed with the CCMA on construction members. If you have any queries, delivery streams, and have the potential reviewing options for vacant properties project advancement are critical. They please contact Marguerite Ryan at Local Authority Targets under Splitting of the Targets into delivery to provide faster and more flexible in their areas. set out the time for each stage of the my Department at 053-9117480 or Rebuilding Ireland. streams delivery than traditional delivery project and thereby, are a key project alternatively by email at marguerite. In January, I wrote to you outlining Rebuilding Ireland is modelled and methods. In order to further support Approved Housing Bodies management tool and I ask that your [email protected] targets across the period 2018-2021 and costed on a blend of delivery across local authorities in delivering on this Over the lifetime of Rebuilding Ireland, local authority works to these timelines also an indicative target for 2018. With various delivery streams. It is critical potential the Department, together with approximately one third of delivery is to on each individual project. Equally my Yours sincerely, 2016 & 2017 now behind us, targets for that the targets set reflect the need to the Housing Agency, recently completed be secured through AHBs. Partnerships Department is obliged to work within Eoghan Murphy, TD, 2018-2021 have become the primary deliver using all of these streams. the first Call for Proposals under the between AHBs and local authorities those timelines in relation to stage Minister for Housing, Planning and Local focus and I am now providing each new Enhanced Leasing Scheme which have been delivering well over the first 2 approvals and I will monitor this aspect. Government, local authority with a 2018-2021 target Build will deliver leased properties at scale, years of Rebuilding Ireland. 18 April 2018 that is reflective of the annualised The build target reflects the existing on a long term basis. In addition, local Local authorities should continue to Publication of progress against targets national target for those delivery years delivery pipeline indicated by authorities will be aware of further engage with AHBs to harness their I have committed to greater levels of A summary of the Q4 2017 Construction under Rebuilding Ireland. local authorities, validated against opportunities to engage with investors expertise, capacity and the availability of transparency in terms of delivery across Status report is included at Appendix 1. Departmental records and Housing who are in a position to deliver multiple private finance arrangements to support each local authority area. The targets Following analysis and assessment Delivery Office feedback and balanced properties under standard long term them in delivering, on a part of each for each local authority are now being Appendix 1 A summary of Q4 2017 of the information provided by local against the national ambition for lease arrangements and the Housing local authority’s targets. In particular, published on the Rebuilding Ireland Construction Status report. Note: authorities, it is recognised that the accelerated build. Build targets include Agency is available to co-ordinate and local authorities must consider AHB website. Delivery against the targets will *some schemes are being delivered delivery trajectory for individual local delivery under the various local assist local authorities in developing collaboration on local authority sites, be mapped on a quarterly and annual in phases and this is reflected in the authorities may arise in a different authority and approved housing body these opportunities. Leasing targets Part V acquisitions and the potential for basis and published in tandem with the numbers in the table blend than the national targeted blend build schemes, in addition to Part V have been set in line with national year-on-year and some re-calibration of and Voids. New build programmes are targets and both my Department and TABLE 1 Q4 of 2016 Q1 of 2017 Q2 of 2017 Q3 of 2017 Q4 of 2017 targets will be required on an ongoing now coming through in much greater the Housing Agency will support local Approval Status Schemes* Homes Schemes* Homes Schemes* Homes Schemes* Homes Schemes* Homes basis to reflect and accommodate numbers, in addition to a substantial authorities to maximise this delivery Stage 1 - 165 2,687 155 2,555 180 2,804 165 2,847 156 2,946 this. However, over the period of increase Part V properties arising stream. Capital Appraisal Rebuilding Ireland it is expected from increased activity in the private that local authorities will focus their construction market. Given the progress Acquisition Stage 2 - 93 1,279 104 1,675 104 1,512 119 1,658 124 1,715 Pre-Planning delivery streams, in line with the ratios made over the last few years, the number As indicated above, the shift in focus indicated. This is particularly important of Voids to be delivered each year is from acquisition to build delivery Stage 3 - 32 490 52 539 49 649 58 729 60 613 in relation to build activity and we reducing and my Department will is intended to accelerate in 2018. Pre-Tender design need to see all channels of potential continue to work with local authorities Accordingly, acquisition targets reflect Stage 4 - 63 1,493 82 2,069 92 2,267 92 1,939 93 1,912 delivery under this category harnessed in respect of transitioning to a planned this national position. This target Tender Report or and accelerated. After the September maintenance programme. also includes the pipeline of Housing 2017 Housing Summit, I indicated a Agency acquisitions, which will be Final Turnkey/ CALF approval very clear shift from acquisitions to Leasing delivered under the CALF scheme in build, recognising the absolute need A range of housing options are necessary 2018. While lower in comparison to Site Start 90 1,829 130 2,378 162 2,711 191 3,660 190 3,646 to generate additional “new build” to ensure a supply of accommodation to acquisition outputs in previous years, Site Finish 61 652 84 856 110 1,106 147 1,460 223 2,592 housing stock. meet different types of social housing the acquisition target is not to be seen Totals 504 8,430 607 10,072 697 11,049 772 12,293 846 13,424

32 33 The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) launches the SEAI Energy Awards 2018

Individuals and organisations and businesses to enter the SEAI Energy energyawards. Closing date for entries is working towards a cleaner energy Awards 2018 to highlight their own Friday 8th June 2018. The winners will future are encouraged to apply success and to encourage others to take be announced at a gala event on the 25th part.” of October 2018. On May 8th, 2017, SEAI began the search for Ireland’s energy leaders Last year, entrants to the Awards Background information who are demonstrating innovative demonstrated savings of €27 million approaches to clean energy with high through innovative sustainable energy About SEAI replication potential. The SEAI Energy projects. The top prize for Energy Team Awards recognise and reward excellence of the Year went to Waterford Institute of SEAI is Ireland’s national energy in all aspects of energy efficiency and Technology (WIT) who implemented an authority investing in, and delivering, renewable energy. Businesses, public organisation-wide approach to saving appropriate, effective and sustainable bodies and communities who are energy, with staff and students working solutions to help Ireland’s transition to a working towards a cleaner energy future together. The Institute surpassed its 33% clean energy future. for Ireland are encouraged to apply. energy efficiency target and is saving We work with the public, businesses, an impressive €300,000 per year on communities and Government to Entries may include any combination of energy bills. Speaking on the impact of achieve this, through expertise, funding, electricity, heat or transport initiatives. their Energy Team Award win, Elaine educational programmes, policy advice, There are nine categories to choose from Greenan, Estates Manager from WIT research and the development of new including large business, small business, stated that, “winning the SEAI Energy technologies. public sector, community, buildings, Award in 2017 has raised our profile SEAI is part-financed by Ireland’s EU energy manager or team, and research, as a leading organisation in reducing Structural Funds Programme co-funded which has a bursary of up to €10,000. energy-use. We are delighted that by the Irish Government and the New to the 2018 Awards programme the commitment from both staff and European Union. is the Renewable Energy Award which students, who have worked hard over recognises significant achievement in a number of years to make our campus About the Sustainable Energy the deployment of renewable energy a better place to work and study, has Awards at scale in Ireland. This year the been recognised. Receiving the award The SEAI Energy Awards recognise Awards have two category sponsors: provided us with media exposure. It and reward excellence in all aspects of Gas Networks Ireland (Large Business has enhanced our brand, made us more energy efficiency and renewable energy. – Energy Management) and Enprova competitive and students are attracted Fourteen years on, the Awards continue (Large Business – Energy Project). to our green campus.” to set the benchmark in energy best practice as exciting and innovative Announcing the launch of the awards, Dairygold took home the Large sustainable energy solutions and Majella Kelleher, Head of Business and Business Energy Management Award practices emerge. Public Sector at SEAI, outlined that for completing seven significant energy Source: “there is truly excellent actions being management projects and delivering Awards Categories http://www.housing.gov.ie/housing/social-housing/social-and-affordable/minister-murphy-publishes-quarter-4-2017-social-housing taken in sustainable energy across our annual savings of €300,000. The Large Business - Energy Management entire economy. The SEAI Energy Awards National Ambulance Service won the (sponsored by Gas Networks Ireland) are a great opportunity for businesses, Public Sector Award for reducing fuel Aimed at organisations with an public bodies and communities to get use and emissions from a combination energy spend over €0.5 million that recognition for outstanding energy of driver behaviour change, an eco-anti- have embraced structured energy achievements. Energy efficiency makes idle system and built-in solar chargers. management and have taken steps financial, as well as environmental to incorporate it into the day-to-day sense. There is growing momentum in For further information on the Awards running of their business. Entrants Ireland’s progress towards a low carbon and details on how to enter the 2018 should demonstrate successful society. I strongly encourage people SEAI Energy Awards visit www.seai.ie/ motivation of decision makers and

34 35 energy users to support effective energy Community of new systems, services, products efficiency initiatives. Aimed at partnerships, groups and or approaches. Entrants will detail €10 Million funding for Energy Efficiency organisations leading change and the problem researched, the research Large Business - Energy Project championing sustainable energy outcome and the potential impact. (sponsored by Enprova) at community level with a view to Design Projects Aimed at organisations with an energy delivering energy savings and socio- **New Award** Renewable Energy spend over €0.5 million which have gone economic benefits. It will focus on This award recognises a significant beyond best practice in new or upgrade those influencing how the community achievement in the deployment of Grant funding can help businesses consumption. The benefit of EXEED is • The Monasterboice Inn, a restaurant technology solutions. Projects in uses energy individually or collectively. renewable energy at scale in Ireland. save 30% a year on energy costs that energy performance and energy and venue near Drogheda, transport and effective use of renewable Activities might include energy retrofits, Entrants should have exemplar projects management is considered at the very constructed a new conference technologies and multiple technology renewable energy upgrades, behavioural which embrace all forms of innovation On the 10th April 2018, the Sustainable beginning of the design of a new build or centre extension and dramatically deployments are encouraged. change initiatives, development of across industrial, commercial, Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) major upgrade project, reducing energy upgraded the energy efficiency of energy cooperatives and energy master residential or community. Among the announced it is accepting applications consumption and operational costs over their restaurant. They installed Small Business plans. criteria are replication potential, the from organisations planning an its lifecycle. Projects that implement high-grade insulation throughout Aimed at small to medium industrial degree of influence and, where relevant, investment in a new design project or the EXEED process can save up to the building and smart lighting in / commercial businesses with an Buildings the mix of renewable technologies major energy upgrade. The Minister 30% in energy use and save on capital their conference rooms and car park. energy spend under €0.5 million Aimed at architects, developers, builders deployed. for Communications, Climate Action expenditure for new investments.” They designed the new conference that go beyond best practice in new or building owners who can stimulate and Environment Denis Naughten TD, centre to maximise natural daylight or upgrade technology deployments our sustainable energy transition Energy Team / Energy Manager of the secured an allocation of €10 Million in Last year, SEAI invested €1.6 million and provide an attractive bright or energy management solutions. through inspiring building design. Year Budget 2018 for the Excellence in Energy in EXEED projects ranging from space. Renewable energy heat Projects demonstrating low-energy Entries should be true exemplars which Aimed at individuals, teams or Efficient Design (EXEED) programme. educational facilities, to pharmaceutical pumps, one of which extracted buildings and effective use of renewable demonstrate the marriage of innovative, organisations, across the public, private companies to public buildings. Some energy from an on-site stream, technologies are also encouraged. beautiful design with superior energy and voluntary sectors, who have The €10 million allocation will be used projects include: replaced old gas boilers, providing efficiency performance. The building demonstrated leadership and ambition to support EXEED projects delivering heating and cooling to the building. Public Sector must be constructed and occupied, in implementing energy management new best practices in the design, • The Dublin Airport Authority Hot air is extracted from the kitchen Aimed at public sector organisations preferably with occupant experiences and delivering significant benefits for construction and management of (DAA) completed a lighting and harnessed to heat the water. As a that have implemented exemplar energy reflected in the application. their organisation over a prolonged buildings and facilities for optimum and controls upgrade to one of result, they expect to reduce energy management approaches, and delivered period. Among the criteria are the degree energy performance. The SEAI EXEED their multi-storey carparks and consumption by 45%, improving energy efficiency projects, showing Research (€10,000 bursary prize) of influence and replication potential grant will provide support of up three external surface carparks. profitability, and lowering carbon leadership in their own sector, and Aimed at individuals, academia, start- beyond their organisational boundaries. to €500,000 per year to successful Lighting in for these carparks emissions. The payback on this across the whole public sector. Projects ups and inventors who have researched organisations. The grant is open to all accounted for 45% of the airport’s project is expected to be three and a demonstrating sustained reductions the potential for future energy demand Source: public and private organisations who are total car park lighting load. half years. in energy demand through structured reduction, enhanced renewable energy planning an investment project of any With the new controls, DAA energy management and demonstrating use or energy management practices. for further information contact, Áine scale or complexity. have improved ability to control The SEAI EXEED grant application process best practice in energy project delivery Research may involve the development Roddy, Carr Communications: aine@ the lighting in these car parks is now open. For further information on are encouraged. carrcommunications.ie The Minister for Communications, and have been able to reduce the scheme and details on how to apply Climate Action and Environment Denis the power input to the lights visit seai.ie/grants Naughten TD stated that “Ireland faces while maintaining the required very significant challenges in meeting brightness. The DAA have For media queries, please contact: our binding climate change targets and achieved 78% energy savings in Áine Roddy, Carr Communications: avoiding compliance costs. Businesses the surface carparks. 087 777 3688 have a key role to play in ensuring that they consider energy-use and carbon emissions in infrastructure projects Expenditure Type Funding and energy management in operations. Amount The EXEED Certified programme Professional services to implement EXEED processes 50% encourages innovation in how we design This must link to investments which will lead to energy efficiency. and manage projects and is driving the Eligible expenditure to implement EXEED processes 30% adoption of longer-term solutions to the • Incremental capital costs compared to counterfactual investment energy challenges we face.” (Baseline design) • Professional services associated with implementation At the announcement, Jim Gannon, CEO of SEAI outlined that “SEAI is The EXEED Grant Scheme provides grant support of up to €500,000 already supporting over 30 businesses per year. The grant level may be extended by 20% for small enterprises in achieving EXEED certification and and 10% for medium enterprises. All works where a grant has been significantly reducing their energy requested, must be completed by the 19th October 2018.

36 37 37 Communities to Become More Energy Fáilte Ireland and the Local Authority Efficient Management Association Agree Co-operation • Energy upgrades result in warmer buildings and greater employment opportunities • Special €3 million fund to nurture new community investments Deal to Grow Tourism 37 communities in 20 counties increase and marked a new record level private sectors, commercial and not-for- Fáilte Ireland and the County & and hospitality industry is of vital of a Fáilte Ireland initiative to develop across Ireland are set to benefit from of funding for community energy. There profit organisations, financing entities City Management Association importance to the national economy, co-operative agreements and build Government funding for energy are incentives for communities that focus and energy suppliers. It also empowers (CCMA), the representative body with tourists spending €7.2 billion in positive partnerships with key industry stakeholders.” The Chair of the CCMA, upgrades. Funded by the Department of on clean and renewable energy as every the communities to determine their for Local Authority Managers on Ireland and employing an estimated Mr Peter Carey, welcomed the agreement Communications, Climate Action and application that incorporates solely own route to a better energy future.” For Thursday, March 22nd, 2018 signed a 235,000 people.* *Note this value within the Memorandum stating that, Environment, the Sustainable Energy renewable energy receive bonus marks at this year’s programme, SEAI emphasised Memorandum of Understanding which includes spending in Ireland by “Local authorities have traditionally Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on March project evaluation. Further bonus marks the benefits for communities to use commits both organisations to work overseas, domestic and NI tourists. It together in strategic areas including excludes carrier receipts. The County played a role in developing the tourist 29th 2018 announced that an initial were awarded for those projects that met renewable energy resources. Successful experience of their areas. Over recent €22 million will fund energy upgrades exceptionally high air quality standards. projects include technologies such as; capital investment projects, training and City Management Association supports, information provision and (CCMA) is the ‘representative voice’ years this has been significantly to 1,200 homes and 400 community In addition, more than 100 community solar panels for heat and electricity, heat strengthened with local authorities and commercial buildings across 37 groups joined SEAI’s energy community pumps, biomass boilers, a wind turbine joint marketing campaigns to attract of the local government management domestic and overseas visitors. network. It is a non-statutory body that working with Fáilte Ireland to develop key communities. The support underpins network and entered a partnership and a combined heat and power unit. experiences throughout Ireland that can works to ensure that the influence of total investment of €52 million and agreement with the SEAI to benefit Concluding Jim Gannon noted that attract tourists and create employment The Memorandum commits both sides local government Chief Executives is means the communities will have from a special fund worth €3m which “Clean energy is vital for the health and opportunities in local areas.” Ms Anna to further develop activities under brought to bear on the development and warmer and healthier buildings, lower supports new community projects. We well-being of our country and future Marie Delaney, Chair of the CCMA energy bills, and reduced harmful CO2 must do all we can to nurture the great generations. Now more than ever, we strategic areas, including: implantation of relevant policy. Economic Committee commented that emissions. There are also significant potential that is out there. If you can are encouraging people to act where “local councils are key drivers of tourism, employment and competitiveness provide the local knowledge, time and they can, even if it is small first steps • Building Brilliant Visitor Welcoming the signing of the each local authority is implementing a benefits locally and nationally. people, the Government will support in the right direction. At the very least, Experiences – Fáilte Ireland will Memorandum of Understanding, Paul tourism strategy and has a designated you with mentoring, energy expertise, we ask people to find out more about provide festivals and capital Hayden, Head of PMO, Education & tourism officer. Working collaboratively Denis Naughten, Minister for and guaranteed funding to support your the behaviours they can change, and investment in Attractions and Policy at Fáilte Ireland outlined that with Fáilte Ireland will ensure that we Communications, Climate Action local energy projects.” the supports now available, to see what Activities. Projects identified will the agreement would strengthen both will maximise the benefits of tourism to and Environment emphasised that might be suitable for their home.” deliver on the objectives of the organisations existing relationship and the economy.” “community-led electricity and energy Furthermore, Jim Gannon, CEO of key brand propositions: Ireland’s further develop activities in a number projects offer a real opportunity for SEAI stated that “SEAI’s community The 37 projects are in twenty different Ancient East, Dublin, Wild Atlantic of strategic areas. He stated that “The For further information, please contact: local economic growth. The community grant scheme enables community-wide counties across the country. Full list Way and the new ‘Midlands’ brand. tourism industry employs an estimated John Browne, Communications Officer, energy grants are an example of a energy improvements across a range of of projects and upgrades proposed • Development of a World-Class 235,000 people with tourists spending tel: 086-781 2686 / 01-8847135 or government project that is revitalizing buildings, achieving it more efficiently are at: https://www.seai.ie/resources/ Industry - identification and delivery €7.2 billion in Ireland in 2017 and the Catherine Whelan, Press Office, Failte communities. This has brought and cost effectively than might otherwise publications/SEAI-Community-Energy- of training supports for Tourism sector has great potential for regional Ireland, tel: 087-6449572 / 01-8847181 hundreds of community groups together be possible. This means better value for Grant-Offers-2018.pdf Officers and Local Authority visitor development. Today’s initiative is aimed to take control of their energy usage and the communities themselves and for the attraction managers at enhancing the positive relationship Source: Catherine Whelan, Press Office, Failte Ireland, make the system work for them, with public monies invested. The community Source: • Ensuring a Visitor Centric that has developed between our two email: [email protected] lower bills, warmer homes and local jobs. energy approach also builds innovative for further information contact, Áine Infrastructure and Community respective organisations and is part I secured €23 million for this Scheme and pioneering partnerships, such as Roddy, Carr Communications, aine@ – Effective and efficient tourism this year, which was a significant budget collaborations between public and carrcommunications.ie information provision • Attracting Overseas Leisure Visitors - collaborative international marketing (including diaspora) opportunities • Attracting Domestic Leisure Visitors - collaborative domestic marketing opportunities

Fáilte Ireland, the national tourism development authority, was established in 2003 to guide and promote tourism as a leading indigenous component of the Irish economy. The tourism

38 39 News items

Launch of HERICOAST - Donegal Joe Mahon is best known for his and this information will then be used preserving our unique coastal heritage Coastal Experience WebApp incredibly successful and long-running by our own Planning Team to allow and landscapes”. television series, ‘Lesser Spotted them to capture and manage this data Well known TV Presenter Joe Mahon Journeys’ and Leas Chathaoirleach of which would otherwise be impossible to The WebApp is does not need to be was on hand on Thursday 25th January Donegal County Council Cllr. Noel capture.” downloaded which means it will not at 11.30am at the launch of the new Jordan believes that Joe Mahon is the take up memory on a device. It will work Donegal Coastal Experience WebApp in ideal person to have on hand to launch This innovative WebApp is being on any device or platform including Letterkenny Public Service Centre. what is essentially a new way of telling launched by Donegal County Council Android, Windows and Apple. It will a yarn, sharing stories and capturing and has been developed by the inhouse not go out of date as it is accessible at all the value of intangible cultural heritage GIS Team as part of the Interreg Europe times through the website and designed from along our stunning coastline. Cllr. funded Hericoast project which aims to be promoted on social media. The Noel Jordan noted that “this WebApp to improve the management and WebApp will be available at http://arcg. story map is something that will appeal preservation of coastal heritage and is/2qlVZZH or on the Council’s website to many people not just those visiting landscapes. Project Officer Aideen at www.donegalcoco.ie our coastline but for local people who Quinn notes that “some aspects of Star Wars Stormtroopers with the Donegal Tourism team following the launch of the want to share photos and the oral our coastal heritage are intangible. For • The Hericoast Project is funded new Donegal Tourism Brochure on Monday morning in the County House Lifford. Back history of their own local communities example you could meet someone such through Interreg Europe where row l to r: Liam Ward, Chief Executive Seamus Neely, Shane Smyth, Barney McLaughlin, and I am delighted that Joe Mahon will as a guide at a specific location and enjoy the Council will examine on an Cathaoirleach Cllr. Gerry McMonagle and front row l to r: Caroline Britton, Sarah Meehan be there as we launch this app. One of their stories – this information cannot international learning platform and Eibhlinn McGuinness. the most appealing aspects of social be readily put on paper but could be and through the experiences of the media is its ability to allow us to share uploaded on the App via a photograph or partner countries, informed and launched in the County House in Lifford welcomed the launch of the brochure, special moments with a wider audience comment and that would engage a wider innovative measures to manage the which features everything you need to “it gives me great pleasure to see the including our circle of family and audience in sharing the experience as cultural, environmental, built and know about Donegal all in one glossy investment and commitment Donegal friends. This WebApp has been specially well as provide us with meaningful natural landscape along the coast of publication. Councillors and guests at Tourism continues to provide to our designed to allow the user to upload this information that could help inform Donegal. the launch were greeted by two Star Wars county in terms of marketing Donegal information using mapping technology best practice in terms of managing and • Claire Mc Callan, Conservation Stormtroopers in full regalia who were on a national and international basis. Architect and Alana Green, on hand to help celebrate this brochure I truly believe that Donegal is a world Executive Planner are joint project launch in an ‘orderly manner befitting class holiday destination for the intrepid managers. such an esteemed publication’. visitor and is also a great place to live and • Further information on the do business in”. He added “this brochure project can be obtained at www. Speaking at the launch Chief Executive provides a window in to our beautiful interregeurope/hericoast/. of Donegal County Council and county and has reached out across the • The QR code that can be scanned to Chairman of Donegal Tourism Seamus world to our Diaspora and tourists alike access the App is Neely stated that this brochure gives to come visit and experience a welcome a flavour of the fantastic facilities and that is second to none. The layout and attractions that we have in the county images are stunning and have received and it brings to life a strong visual image much praise from near and far, not least of Donegal for the potential visitor. He from other counties hoping to emulate outlined that “this is the second edition the approach adopted by Donegal of this brochure and it beautifully Tourism in this brochure”. captures many images that display the Source: diversity and majesty of Donegal. It • The brochure uses over forty Anne Marie Conlon, Communications sets out an array of activities, places of different themes and headings from Manager, Donegal County interest and services that are available popular activities, such as surfing, Council,[email protected] to potential visitors”. He added that the golf, and Angling; to unique new brochure has been increased by Donegal amenities and resources, an additional four pages bringing it to such as local produce, Islands and Donegal County Council kicks off sixty pages and the circulation of this the Gaeltacht and festivals to allow 2018 with new Tourism Brochure brochure is now in excess of 20,000 the reader to easily plan their visit. per year, throughout Ireland, UK, USA, • New elements have been added At the end of January, the new 2018 France, Germany and indeed the USA. including an extended list of Donegal Tourism brochure was Cathaoirleach Cllr. Gerry McMonagle walks in the county, including

40 41 is seriously letting down Europe’s New Council alert service for towns and regions. Even on the basis households and businesses in of 2018 prices, this will represent a loss Donegal of 41 billion EUR for local and regional governments for the 2020-2027 period.”

Households and businesses in Donegal CEMR President expressed his surprise can now get alerts or messages straight to that “on top of this, much more their phones or tablets via the new free clarification is still needed regarding the Donegal County Council MapAlerter future programmes and issues such as service. This will include weather co-financing of cohesion projects. What alerts from Met Eireann, gritting alerts, does the Commission mean by saying information on road closures and it will increase national co-financing? weekly planning lists. At the beginning Will all regions still be able to receive Pictured at the launch of the new Donegal Tourism Brochure on Monday morning in the of February, Donegal County Council Pictured at the launch of the new Donegal Tourism Brochure on Monday morning in the funding? What does the “rule of law” County House Lifford are Seamus Neely, Chief Executive Donegal County Council and signed up to the MapAlerter Service that County House Lifford are Seamus Neely, Chief Executive Donegal County Council and clause mean for local and regional Cathaoirleach Cllr. Gerry McMonagle with special guests Star Wars Stormtroopers. Cathaoirleach Cllr. Gerry McMonagle with special guests Star Wars Stormtroopers along will allow households and businesses in governments?” with elected members, staff and representatives from the tourism trade. Donegal to sign up for the alert service free of charge. This means that alerts “But every cloud has a silver lining”, An important element of this service is the necessary precautions to protect Stefano Bonaccini pointed out, while can be sent directly by SMS text message, that the alerts are location based, so only their property and stay safe. I would email, smartphone app notification or underlining: “we are pleased that those registered users in the vicinity encourage all businesses and everyone simplification and flexibility will be two Facebook Messenger to individuals and of the alert or who pass through the in the county to sign up for this service”. businesses who have signed up for the pillars of the next cohesion policy, as alert location on a commuting route, towns and regions have long called for. service. will be notified. This saves alerting To sign up for the service, visit www. Moreover, the Commission’s decision to everybody to issues which might be of mapalerter.com/register or download include climate, digitalisation, transport no significance to them. Additionally the MapAlerter app. You can also sign or innovation as priorities is definitely a all alerts are mapped and visible to up via Facebook Messenger. step forward. However, it still needs to everybody through the Mapalerter. say whether towns and regions will have com website. Initially alerts will focus Source: direct access to this funding.” on the Councils gritting programme, Anne Marie Conlon, Communications Met Eireann Weather Alerts and the Manager, Donegal County Next steps Weekly Planning Lists but this service Council,[email protected] Pictured at the launch of the new Donegal Tourism Brochure on Monday morning in the will develop to include other important Building on its proposals, the County House Lifford are Seamus Neely, Chief Executive Donegal County Council and messages and warnings. Commission will present, in the weeks Cathaoirleach Cllr. Gerry McMonagle with special guests Star Wars Stormtroopers along to come, detailed proposals for the future with elected members, staff and representatives from the tourism trade. Speaking about the launch of this EU budget - Cuts to regional sector-specific financial programmes. new service, Cathaoirleach Cllr. funding: a severe blow for local The decision on the future long-term eighty official walk options, an acknowledged the support received Gerry McMonagle stated that this is updated cycling route including the from providers in producing this new government EU budget will then fall to the Council, a very welcome development from a acting by unanimity, with the consent of Eurovelo 1, and extended activities brochure, “we are delighted to be able to customer service and communications - both land and water based, with source many new images for the brochure the European Parliament. An agreement perspective for the Council. “The At the beginning of May 2018, should be reached before the European a focus on the Northern Lights and to showcase Donegal, providers have Council has been to the fore in sharing screen tourism, following on from been so helpful in providing images free European Commission President Jean- Parliament elections in May 2019. public interest messages through social Claude Juncker unveiled his proposal the success of the latest Star Wars of charge and we want to extend a huge media and online platforms and this offering that was filmed in part in thank you to them”. for the EU’s next long-term budget, Source: Pierre Vander Auwera, Adviser is another progressive step to ensuring the so-called Multiannual Financial – Communication,CEMR, email: pierre. Malin Head. that the public is kept informed of • The brochure also offers the visitor To find out more about the brochure Framework, which will run from 2021 to [email protected] in the important public interest messages such 2027. At stake are drastic cuts in cohesion Council of European Municipalities and six recommended touring routes for or to download a copy visit www. as knowing when the roads are being different regions of the county in govisitdonegal.com spending. Regions (CEMR) European section of gritted, planned road closures in your United Cities and Local Governments, addition to the Wild Atlantic Way Donegal County Council Chief Executive area and the weekly planning lists. This Seamus Neely and Cathaoirleach Cllr. Gerry Reacting to the Commission’s proposal, May Newsletter, http://ccre.org/en/ route which has seen huge interest service will undoubtedly come into in the county. Source: McMonagle checking out the new Council the President of the Council of European actualites/view/3718 Map Alerter that will see households and its own during weather events, such Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), Anne Marie Conlon, Communications businesses getting alerts or messages straight as, flooding when it will be necessary Head of Tourism with Donegal Manager, Donegal County President of Emilia-Romagna region, to their phones. to get warnings and information out County Council Barney Mc Laughlin Council,[email protected] Stefano Bonaccini, stated: “by cutting in advance to the public to allow for cohesion policy by 7%, the Commission households and businesses to take all

42 43 “Cutting regional funds is a risk to which sets the EU’s expenditure ceilings Local and regional leaders’ effective, visible, less centralised and local-government/reform/boundaries/ Report for amalgamation of Galway City Europe’s future”, EU-wide Alliance for the period after 2020. reaction supports cooperation across borders, report-expert-advisory-group-local- and County Councils, and states that warns European Commission we need a strong cohesion policy for all government-arrangements-galway this is now all the more urgent in order to To avoid this and raise awareness The President of the AEBR and Minister- regions and a bigger EU budget. Cutting The report endorses previous capitalise on the funding opportunities President of the German-speaking it will have serious consequences for the recommendations for the amalgamation under the National Planning Framework EU cohesion policy must continue on the vital role of cohesion policy, Community of Belgium, Oliver Paasch, prosperity and unity of the future of of Galway City and County Councils, and the Capital Programme and to to represent at least one-third of the the #CohesionAlliance was initially said: “Border regions have made a smart European Union”. to take effect not later than 2021, but have the capacity to engage in activity EU budget after 2020 and support all launched by the leading associations of use of EU solidarity addressing shared recommends that the existing councils such as capital development funded by of Europe’s regions. Reducing it risks regions and cities - the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR), the difficulties, building stable bridges An issue highlighted also by President as currently constituted should continue borrowings. The Group is unanimous in deepening divides in Europe and would of CPMR and of Portugal’s Regional for the purposes of the 2019 local its view that amalgamation is required Assembly of European Regions (AER), between societies, based on trust, across undermine the future of the European national boundaries. EU cohesion Autonomous Government of the Azores, elections. to drive the development of Galway, in the Conference of European Regional Union. This message was delivered policy should remain a basic piece of Vasco Alves Cordeiro: “The future EU the context of its regional, national, and Legislative Assemblies (CALRE), the today by the EU-wide Cohesion Alliance the European Project, addressing all budget needs to reflect the ambition and In 2015, a Galway Local Government international remit. Other key specific Council of European Municipalities (#CohesionAlliance) to the European territories and all essential policy areas, priorities of the EU, providing regions Committee unanimously recommended recommendations are as follows: Commission ahead of the publication and Regions (CEMR), the Conference of guaranteeing better coordination and with the flexibility they need to realise the establishment of a new unified • A Ministerial decision should of its draft future EU budget on 2 May. Peripheral Maritime Regions of Europe a wider participatory approach for all the political vision of the European Galway authority rather than boundary be taken on the Group’s The #CohesionAlliance is a coalition (CPMR) and EUROCITIES - and the political levels”. Union for the future of Europe on the alteration or retention of the status quo. recommendations and be legislated of those who believe that EU cohesion European Committee of the Regions ground. Certain priorities can only be The Group concluded that this would for as a matter of urgency, to provide policy must continue to be a pillar (CoR) in October last year. The AER President, and President of achieved by Cohesion policy”. maximise the potential of the region to certainty. of the EU’s future. The Alliance was the Region Västra Götaland in Sweden, maintain, secure, and grow a sustainable • The scheduled 2019 local elections created through cooperation between The Alliance demands that the EU Magnus Berntsson said: “A strong The vital role of cohesion policy was economic base into the future, should be held to the two existing the leading European associations of budget after 2020 makes cohesion renewed cohesion policy for all regions stressed by the President of EUROCITIES combining the respective strengths of local authorities as currently cities and regions and the European policy stronger, more effective, visible is central to the future of the European and Mayor of Ghent in Belgium Daniël the two existing authorities in terms of constituted, but the amalgamation Committee of the Regions. It demands and available for every region in the Union. Cohesion policy is and should Termont: “Cohesion policy is the glue resources, staff, and expertise. should happen no later than 2021. that the EU budget after 2020 makes European Union. Since its launch, remain at the core of the Europe. It is that holds the EU together as we strive • The members elected in 2019 to each cohesion policy stronger, more effective, the Alliance’s declaration has been our most powerful tool, improving the for a future that is more sustainable, Arising from the 2015 report, an Expert local authority should combine to inclusive, democratic and prosperous. Advisory Group was established in form the membership of the unified visible and available for every region in signed by more than 4000 individual quality of life of citizens. It promotes a unified, strong and competitive Supporting innovation, cooperation and December 2016 to carry out further Galway City and County Council the European Union. From national, signatories, 100 regions, 70 cities and Europe through investments in both, solidarity via a strong cohesion policy detailed examination and planning on the date of amalgamation, with regional and local governments to SMEs, counties, 50 associations of regional and developed, and less developed regions”. will help Europe remain a role model for arising from the 2015 report and to the first elections to the unified NGOs, schools, universities, cultural local governments, 40 Members of the the world around us for generations to provide detailed information and any authority to be held in 2024. organisations, anyone who believes in European Parliament, 30 EU sectorial associations. The President of CALRE Ana Luís, come”. further recommendations considered • The recommended amalgamation EU cohesion policy is welcome to join President of the Legislative Assembly of warranted. It was open to the Advisory must be preceded by addressing the #CohesionAlliance by signing the the Autonomous Region of The Azores Source: Group to vary the recommendation noted deficiencies in both human “Cohesion Policy is traditional but declaration. in Portugal, pointed out that: “It is time of the 2015 report if that appeared to and financial resources noted by the not old fashioned. It will keep playing Pierre Vander Auwera, Adviser – to unite and converge for the defense Communication,CEMR, email: pierre. be warranted by the more detailed Group. its role in the next EU budget. We Worth over €350 billion between of European Union’s fundamental [email protected] in the Council examination. In a short Interim Report • At representational level, the 2014 and 2020, cohesion policy – cannot guarantee no cuts but our principles, such as cohesion and of European Municipalities and Regions submitted in June 2017, the Advisory structure of Municipal Districts implemented through the European idea is to limit them to between 5 and solidarity. That is why CALRE joined the (CEMR) European section of United Cities Group confirmed, on the basis of its must be strengthened and their full Structural and Investment Funds – is the 10%” said EU Budget Commissioner #CohesionAlliance from the beginning. and Local Governments, May Newsletter, more detailed analysis of local authority potential explored and resourced. http://ccre.org/en/actualites/view/3694 EU’s main investment tool that works Gunther Oettinger, inviting all partners Europe needs a strong and efficient services and related financial matters, • Further work is required in to reduce regional disparities, create to mobilise and convince national cohesion policy, in each and all of its the recommendation of the 2015 report relation to some of the Group’s jobs, open new business opportunities governments that a limited increase of regions”. Expert Advisory Group on Local for a unified local authority. terms of reference, issues raised and address major global issues such as member states’ contributions is needed Government Arrangements in in consultations, and the climate change and migration. It is the for the EU to be up to its tasks. The CEMR spokesperson and Councilor Galway The second phase of the Advisory implementation process. only EU policy that covers all of Europe’s of Malmö in Sweden, Ilmar Reepalu, Group’s review has now been completed, local communities involving local EU Regional Policy Commissioner declared: “The success of the EU’s new dealing with other aspects of its terms of Expert Advisory Group on Local stakeholders to deliver growth strategies Corina Creţu, also stressed that: “This is priorities, such as social inclusion and Mr. John Paul Phelan T.D., Minister of reference, particularly governance and Government Arrangements in led by shared EU goals. probably the biggest, broadest grassroots climate action, depends on towns State for Local Government and Electoral representational aspects, and the report Galway – members campaign on behalf of cohesion policy and regions’ ability to invest in their Reform, announced on Thursday, 26 which has now been submitted sets out Chair: Professor Eoin O’Sullivan, Head territories. These investments cannot the findings arising from this work. The of School of Social Work and Social As a consequence of Brexit and the ever. Through the cohesion alliance, April 2018 that the second report of the happen without cohesion policy. The EU main recommendations of the report are Policy, Trinity College Dublin; need for the EU to fund new priorities thousands of beneficiaries of this Galway Local Government Committee should be consistent and make cohesion as follows: such as defense, security and external unique policy, representing cities and in relation to local government policy strong in the future budget”. Mr. Ned Gleeson, former Limerick and border control, the financial allocations regions as well as the health, education arrangements in Galway has been South Tipperary County Manager; or business sectors, state loud and clear presented to him today by the Group The Group endorses and confirms the for cohesion policy risks being cut CoR President Karl-Heinz Lambertz who that Europe and cohesion policy are two and is available on the Department’s recommendation in 2015 the Galway Mr Kevin Kelly, Chief Executive, Galway in the next EU long term budget – or stressed that: “If we want a Europe that sides of the same coin. Europe needs website at: http://www.housing.gov.ie/ Local Government Review Committee County Council; Multiannual Financial Framework – invests in every community, that is more more cohesion”.

44 45 Ms Hannah Kiely (until May 2017), Mr. John Paul Phelan T.D., Minister TERMS OF REFERENCE IN such electoral area shall be based, TERMS OF REFERENCE IN 2. For the purposes of the review, the Galway Chamber of Commerce; of State for Local Government and RELATION TO CORK COUNTY as far as practicable, on the areas of RELATION TO CORK CITY boundary of Cork City shall be the Electoral Reform, announced March the “census town” as defined for the Local Electoral Area Boundary boundary as shown on the map Mr Brendan McGrath, Chief Executive 23rd, 2018 that he has appointed the Local Electoral Area Boundary purposes of Census 2016. Committee No. 2 attached to these terms of reference Galway City Council. existing Local Electoral Area Boundary Committee No. 1 1. To review and to make which is to be given legal effect Committees to review and make 1. To review and to make 6. Other local electoral areas should recommendations on the division under forthcoming legislation. Professor Eoin O’Sullivan also chaired the recommendations on local electoral recommendations on the division be designed, as far as possible, of Cork City into local electoral Galway Local Government Committee, areas in Cork City and Cork County. of Cork County into local electoral around urban centres, taking due areas and the number of members 3. For the purpose of the review, the which reported in December 2015; Ms The review will be conducted on the areas and the number of members account of local and community to be assigned to each such electoral Committee should have regard to Kiely and Mr Gleeson were members of basis of the revised boundary between to be assigned to each such electoral identities and linkages as well as area. the population as ascertained at the Committee. the city and county, as proposed by the area. natural boundaries and the need Census 2016, should assume no Cork Implementation Oversight Group to facilitate the effectiveness of the Welcoming the report, Minister Phelan and agreed by Government, and which 2. For the purposes of the review, the governance and representational stated “I will be bringing proposals will be given legal effect by forthcoming boundary of Cork County shall be roles of elected members, including, to Government shortly arising from legislation. the boundary as shown on the map in particular, the need to avoid the report and dealing also with other attached to these terms of reference designating local electoral areas aspects of local government structures The Committees’ reports will be which is to be given legal effect which are territorially very large or and governance, including details of the considered by Minister Phelan as the under forthcoming legislation. extend over very long distances. legislation to provide for the alteration basis for the revision of local electoral of the boundary between Cork City areas under his statutory powers. The 3. For the purpose of the review, the 7. In making recommendations in and County”. These proposals are review of local electoral areas is being Committee should have regard to relation to local electoral areas the among a series of modules on local undertaken in prospect of the local the population as ascertained at Committee should take account of government matters which will address elections to be held in 2019. In doing Census 2016, should assume no the following proposals in relation the requirement in the Programme for their work, the committees are to have change in the total membership of to the configuration of Municipal Partnership Government for a report regard to the results of Census 2016 Cork County Council as specified in Districts: to Government and the Oireachtas on and to assume no change in the total the Local Government Act 2001 as (i) Municipal Districts may be further local government reform themes. membership of each local authority. amended by the Local Government divided into 2 or more local electoral I would like to thank the members Reform Act 2014 and should areas as the Committee considers of the Group for the huge amount of • The Committees are tasked with endeavour, as far as practicable and appropriate, except where the terms time and work they have devoted, on a reporting to the Minister no later subject to the other requirements of of reference require otherwise, or purely voluntary basis, to this role and than 13 June 2018. these terms of reference, to achieve where the Committee considers the production of two reports which • The review of Cork County will variance from individual average that it would not be appropriate. are an important contribution to our be undertaken by Committee local authority representation (ii) The number of Municipal proposals on local government reform” No. 1, who will report and make within the range of plus or minus District Members for each said Minister Phelan, who added “I must recommendations in relation 10%. district shall not be less than 6 save pay particular tribute to the Group’s to county Cork. The number where, in exceptional circumstances Chair, Professor Eoin O’Sullivan, for of councillors will be not less 4. The number of councillors assigned (for example, related to population), his exemplary leadership both of this than 5 and not more than 7 to a local electoral area shall be the Committee considers that it Group and the previous review in 2015. for each local electoral area, not less than 5 and not more than is necessary that a district should His professionalism is matched by his provided that in particular 7 provided that in particular consist of a single local electoral commitment, as a Galway native, to compelling circumstances, 3 or 4 compelling circumstances 3 or 4 area, in which case the number of furthering the success of the city and seat local electoral areas may be seat local electoral areas may be members shall not be less than 5. county which has been the key feature recommended. recommended, where otherwise the of the Group’s work.” • The review of Cork City will be geographic size of the area would be 8. The Committee shall have regard undertaken by Committee No. disproportionately large. to: Source: 2, who will report and make (i) Government policy in relation http://www.housing.gov.ie/local-government/ recommendations in relation 5. A distinct urban-focused to local government, including reform/minister-phelan-publishes-report-expert- to Cork City. The number of local electoral area or areas, as any further reports, statements or advisory-group-local-government councillors will be not less than 5 appropriate, shall be designated in decisions in that regard during the and not more than 7 for each local respect of each town the population course of the review, and to any electoral area. of which within the county as further guidance or requirements Minister Phelan appoints Local ascertained at Census 2016, when issued by the Minister; Electoral Area Boundary The terms of reference for the rounded to the nearest 1,000, is (ii) The recommendations in Committees to consider Cork City Committees in relation to Cork are equal to or greater than 15,000. The relation to local electoral areas and and Cork County attached; the membership of each number of members of Cork County municipal districts (in particular at Committee remains unchanged. Council to be assigned to each such paragraph 12.1.7) in the report of local electoral area shall not be less the Expert Advisory Group on Local than 5, as far as practicable. Each Government Arrangements in Cork dated April 2017.

46 47 change in the total membership of districts, including Cork City Council, quality of life and protecting public supplies and €73 million per year commitment to meaningful community right. It is the contention of the Border Cork City Council as specified in have power under section 50 of the Local health and the environment. This in investment by Irish Water to and civic participation. I want to Corridor Local Authorities that in order the Local Government Act 2001 as Government Act 2001 to establish area Plan represents the most coordinated reduce leakage, saving 61 million thank all those who have contributed to do that all aspects of the Good Friday amended by the Local Government committees in respect of local electoral and ambitious roadmap for improving m3 of water each year (similar to to the Plan, including the many who Agreement must be maintained.” Reform Act 2014 and should areas. It would appear, therefore, that water quality that Ireland has ever total non-domestic water demand attended public meetings and provided endeavour, as far as practicable and what would be required to give effect to produced. All involved in influencing in the Greater Dublin Area every submissions during last year’s public The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County subject to the other requirements of the Advisory Group recommendation is and delivering it should be proud today.” year). This has the effect of reducing consultation. Today we have a plan. Council Councillor Seamus Kilgannon these terms of reference, to achieve to ensure that the LEAs are appropriately the leakage rate of drinking water Tomorrow we will continue to make outlined that the issue of Brexit was variance from individual average configured to facilitate the proposed Amongst the Plan’s main commitments produced from 45% to 38%. the Plan’s vision a reality and protect one of the most challenging issues local authority representation arrangement. are: • Extension of the local authority-led this most precious natural resource for facing the country, with likely impacts within the range of plus or minus • Planned investment by Irish Water Domestic Waste Water Treatment current and future generations.” at regional and national level. ‘This 10%. Source: of approximately €1.7 billion in Systems grant scheme: the revised forum was very useful, as it allowed us http://www.housing.gov.ie/local- waste water infrastructure and scheme will assist with the cost of Source: to engage directly with colleagues from 4. The number of councillors assigned government/reform/boundaries/minister- projects in 255 urban areas by the septic tank remediation in ‘high http://www.housing.gov.ie/water/water-quality/ other Local Authorities in the border to a local electoral area shall be not phelan-appoints-local-electoral-area- end of 2021 – protecting both the status’ (excellent quality) water river-basin-management-plans/minister- area – the communities in this region less than 5 and not more than 7. boundary-committees environment and public health. areas and in areas identified for murphy-launches-river-basin-management have very specific concerns in relation • Deployment of 43 specialist priority action. The scheme will be to areas such as tourism, enterprise and 5. Local electoral areas should Minister Murphy launches River local authority investigative promoted in these sensitive water agriculture, and we need to have a joined- be designed, as far as possible, Basin Management Plan 2018-2021 assessment personnel, who will areas to the benefit of water quality. Eleven Ireland/Northern Ireland up approach in the local authority sector around urban villages or have a carry out scientific assessments Details will be finalised in the Local Authorities meet Minister of to dealing with these important issues.’ neighbourhood focal point (or • Plan to result in the protection and of water bodies and drive the coming months. State for European Affairs Helen The first task of the Local Authority points), taking due account of local improvement of water quality in implementation of measures at a • A Community Water Development McEntee to discuss ‘Brexit’ grouping was to commission a study to and community identities and approximately 726 water bodies in local level. Fund to support community begin to explore what the actual impact linkages and the need to facilitate • A new Agricultural Sustainability initiatives to improve water quality. of Brexit might be along the corridor. Ireland The eleven local authorities that the effectiveness of the governance Support and Advisory Programme, The fund will be administered This was not an easy task considering • €1.7 billion investment in urban comprise the Ireland/Northern Ireland and representational roles of elected a partnership between the State and by the newly-established Local the huge uncertainty around what Brexit waste water treatment infrastructure Border Corridor met with Helen members, including, in particular, the dairy industry, consisting of 30 Authority Waters and Communities actually means. The Ulster University by 2021 McEntee, Minister of State for European the need to avoid designating Sustainability Advisers. Advisers Office (LAWCO). LAWCO consists Economic Policy Centre produced • New Agricultural Sustainability Affairs in Newry on Tuesday 6th March local electoral areas which are will engage collaboratively with of Community Water Officers a report “BREXIT and the Border Support and Advisory Programme 2018 to discuss the implications of Brexit territorially very large or extend farmers to promote agricultural located across the country who are Corridor on the Island of Ireland, Risks, to promote best agricultural on the Border Corridor. over very long distances or over practice regarding water quality in best practice across the dairy sector already working with the public, Opportunities and Issues to Consider.” multiple urban villages, or which in 190 targeted ‘areas for action’. communities and stakeholders on 190 targeted areas A large delegation comprising divide individual urban villages or The programme will provide measures to improve local water The Report highlights that the Irish Chairpersons, Mayors and Chief natural communities. advice and support to farmers, quality. border area will be most affected by Brexit On Tuesday, 17th April, 2018, the Executives from all the local authorities facilitating knowledge transfer and that an economic border would Minister for Housing, Planning and who comprise the Border Corridor 6. The Committee shall have regard to: and encouraging behavioural On the expected outcomes arising be detrimental to, not only the Border Local Government, Eoghan Murphy attended the meeting, the size of the (i) Government policy in relation change as the cornerstone of the from the Plan, Minister Murphy noted Corridor, but to Ireland as a whole. It also T.D., today launched the River Basin delegation reflects just how important to local government, including any drive towards better farming that implementation will result in found that whilst economic certainty is Management Plan (RBMP) for Ireland this issue is, not just for local authorities, further reports, statements or decisions practice and water quality. The social, environmental and economic important, political certainty is essential 2018-2021, http://www.housing.gov. but for all the people who live and work in that regard during the course of the initiative will complement agri- benefits. “By implementing this for the border corridor to thrive and the ie/sites/default/files/publications/files/ along the Ireland/Northern Ireland review, and to any further guidance or environment measures under the Plan, communities will benefit from Peace Process cannot be jeopardised. rbmp_full_reportweb.pdf The Plan border corridor. requirements issued by the Minister. outlines the measures the State and Rural Development Programme, improved waste water treatment, (ii) The recommendation in paragraph the Nitrates Action Programme and stronger protection of drinking The aim of the meeting is to highlight other sectors will take to improve water Newry, Mourne and Down District 12.1.8 of the report of the Expert the National Dairy Sustainability water sources and cleaner waters for the need for investment and support quality in Ireland’s groundwater, rivers, Council Chairperson Councillor Advisory Group on Local Government Forum. These initiatives will help recreation. Environmentally, water for the Border Corridor and to stress lakes, estuarine and coastal waters over Roisin Mulgrew stated that “without Arrangements in Cork, dated April the next four years. The Government enhance Ireland’s reputation as a quality will improve and be protected two overarching strategic points which 2017, that “A newly expanded Cork global leader in high-quality food in 726 water bodies, with full recovery a Government in the North of emanated from the study: aims to protect and improve water Ireland and negotiations taking place City Council should also move to quality in 726 of Ireland’s 4,829 water production. in water quality status class expected in • Firstly, that Brexit will impact on introduce an area-or district based • A ‘Blue Dot Catchments 152 water bodies. Economically, water- between Brussels and London directly, all aspects of the economy of our bodies over the next four years. The Plan local authorities felt it necessary to structure for the wider city area, based is in fulfillment of requirements under Programme’, a programme to create intensive sectors such as the agri-food, region. An economic border post champion the needs of the border on five areas (including the city centre). the Water Framework Directive (WFD). awareness, promote best practice tourism and hospitality sectors - which Brexit would be disastrous for our This will allow for the devolution of and focus efforts and resources to collectively sustain approximately region specifically and to ensure that region. those needs are reflected and prioritised operational decisions at area level and Speaking after launching the Plan at an protect our highest quality waters, 400,000 jobs, many in rural Ireland - will • Secondly, that Brexit will impact during Brexit negotiations. Our children the representation of distinct areas and event for stakeholders, Minister Murphy vital to our environment and our also benefit from greater protection of on the people and communities and grandchildren’s lives depend on communities within the city.” stated that “today is a seminal day for tourism and recreation sectors. water supply sources and cleaner natural of the Border Corridor. The Good decisions which will be taken over the water quality in Ireland. Environmental • Greater focus on protecting waters. This Plan is underpinned by Friday Agreement must be protected Note: With regard to article 6(ii), local water quality is vital to clean water drinking water sources in over 700 strong implementation structures and a next few years. It is our duty to get this during Brexit negotiations. authorities which do not have municipal sources, clean food production, good public and private drinking water

48 49 There is no doubt that the Ireland/ customers across a range of industries and server support. It has also established which I am confident will be the first Northern Ireland Border area will be to simplify the building, monitoring, a managed network security solution to step in our shared journey to making most affected by Brexit. After Brexit supporting, securing and maintaining protect its local authority clients from rural Clare a sustainable and thriving the border will become a gateway both of all aspect of their IT, network and increasing numbers of cyber-attacks. place to live and work.” into and out of the European Union. It telecoms infrastructure. Paradyn appears that the UK will exit both the brings together the management of Cillian McCarthy, CEO, Paradyn, stated Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare single market and the Customs Union 30,000 public and private sector users that “since we began working with Cork County Council, said the Digital Hubs and if this is the case the EU will need in 300 active business and public sector County Council and Galway County have been developed in line with our to protect their market and therefore customers who utilise upwards of Council in 2008 we’ve steadily built up policy of utilising broadband and digital enforce controls on the Border. No one 75,000 devices between them. For more the number of local authorities we work technology as a key enabler of Rural wants to see that happening. Controls information visit www.paradyn.ie with to our current position where we being opened here today and the two along the border will impact negatively, count more than 80% of Ireland’s local others Clare hubs nearing completion, not just along the border but Ireland as On Thursday, May 17th, 2018, Paradyn, authorities as customers, making us helps not only in the economic a whole. announced that it won €3 million in leaders in Government sector solutions. development of rural Ireland, but new IT and communications contracts This level of experience gives us a unique Kilrush, Miltown Malbay and Feakle also helps those who may otherwise In order to mitigate against the negative with Ireland’s local authorities in the perspective on the challenges that local by Pat Breen, T.D., Minister of State for work in isolation to come together to impact on the Border Corridor, the Local past 12 months. Following competitive authority typically face and the solutions Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital share ideas and encouragement. I am authorities are requesting investment tendering processes, the company that work. As Paradyn provides Ireland’s Single Market and Data Protection. The familiar with many of the businesses in Infrastructure (road/rail/broadband/ design, implement and manage a only one-stop managed service solution facilities, which are part of the Local already using the Kilrush Hub, and telecoms), Investment in Business number of technical solutions for local for IT, telecoms, security, network and Authority’s DigiClare.ie initiative and recognise these entrepreneurs as the support, and a commitment that future authorities. The company now provides business connectivity, we manage key are among the actions identified in the Development. The users of these hubs are backbone of our rural economies in EU Funding such as INTERREG and managed services to 25 of the country’s elements of the local authority’s IT Clare Rural Development Strategy 2026, the lifeblood of the local community and Clare. Entrepreneurship and business Peace are still accessible to the Border 30 local authorities, with IT contracts infrastructure. Our solution not only will support rural social enterprises and it is in their interest and in the interest of investment must continue to be Region post Brexit. This investment worth in excess of €14 million won over means less complex IT systems, but also the wider community by providing job creation that Clare County Council encouraged and supported, especially will help ensure that the Border Region the last 5 years. In the last three years our local authority customers spend less flexible, affordable hot-desks, co- is committed to further expanding its in rural towns and villages, which is better able to deal with the challenges alone Paradyn has won a total of 10 new time on IT management, which increases working, conference and training network of digital hubs.” Mr. Dowling inevitably face bigger challenges than of Brexit, but also to maximise any local authority contracts, including efficiency while also improving security. facilities for residents, visitors and confirmed that Clare County Council those setting up in major cities. Digital opportunities that may arise. Donegal County Council, Meath Given the range of essential services that entrepreneurs for as little as €10 per day. will launch a Digital Strategy for County Hubs provides much of that support County Council and Wexford County local authorities provide, it’s vital that Over the next 12 months, Clare County Clare in 2018, “the overarching theme of Council. they have a secure, reliable, integrated Council will be furthering its plans to which is supporting Rural, Community develop a large-scale Broadband Hub in Source: IT infrastructure. The tailored solutions and Economic Development. Its key http://www.sligococo.ie/News/BrexitForum/ we design and implement are specific Ennis, including a hot desk facility and aim will be to bridge the digital divide to the exact needs of individual local incubation units. A multi-service centre as well as creating digitally intelligent authorities. We hold an annual event that incorporating a Broadband Hub and communities in Clare. While a strategy specifically caters for our Government other social and community services is in its own right, this Digital blueprint is €3M in IT deals with local sector customers. This is an opportunity also planned for Ennistymon. a critical facilitator. It will enable Clare authorities for us to highlight certain solutions that County Council to further the objectives worked well and share technical updates Minister of State Breen commented, of the Clare Rural Development Strategy on particular products and services.” “A few months ago the Government across the county.” launched its National Action Plan for • Paradyn works with 25 of Ireland’s Rural Development - which outlines a 30 local authorities, with contract Pictured announcing that Paradyn had won €3 million in new IT and communications framework of supports at national and wins worth more than €14M over For more information on the Digital contracts with Ireland’s local authorities local level for both the economic and Hubs, visit www.DigiClare.ie or contact the last 5 years in the past 12 months are (L to R) Cillian social development of rural Ireland. DIGICLARE, Clare County Council, • Provider won 10 new local authority McCarthy, CEO, Paradyn, Rob Norton, CTO, and my department will continue Supporting Digital Hubs, like the three New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare V95 DXP2 contracts in last three years Paradyn and Paul Casey, COO, Paradyn. to support rural entrepreneurship on Tel: 065 6846336 / Email: hubs@ • Company provides managed Photo credit: Steve Langan through our Local Enterprise Offices clarecoco.ie. network security, wireless and Enterprise Ireland.” Mayor of Clare, connectivity, infrastructure support Source: Councillor Tom McNamara, stated Paradyn has designed bespoke solutions and managed services that “on the first anniversary of the for each local authority, that have http://www.housing.gov.ie/water/water-quality/river- opening Rural Development Forum Source: enabled them to become more efficient, basin-management-plans/minister-murphy-launches- Mark Dunphy, Communications Officer, Paradyn is the result of a merger of three river-basin-management meeting, the official opening of the more productive and benefit from less Corporate Services Department, Clare leading Irish technology companies, three Digital Broadband Hubs in Feakle, time spent managing IT. As part of the County Council, email: mdunphy@clarecoco. Exigent Networks, Irish Telecom and Miltown Malbay and Kilrush is tangible contract wins the Paradyn team has Three Digital Hubs opened in Clare ie Netforce. Paradyn is Ireland’s only end- evidence of the value of developing to-end provider of managed IT, security, in some cases completely overhauled In mid-April, 2018, three digital hub and implementing a focused Rural networking and telecommunications the authorities’ IT infrastructures, facilities developed by Clare County Development Strategy in Clare. Today, systems. It’s highly experienced team from implementing new wireless WAN Council were officially opened in we have taken a giant stride forward (of more than 40) works closely with infrastructure right through to desktop

50 51 investment with consequent high level briefing for Elected Members and a world class learning, research and embracing social media and digital toll on progress, however, right now Clare County Council promotes employment opportunities for 3,500 the Clare County Council Economic development hub.” communications. The Public Sector communications methods are taking Europe’s first 21st Century people. The figure will be achieved by a Development SPC that “seeking SDZ Digital Marketing Summit takes place on a different and more progressive route. mix of foreign direct investment (FDI) designation is logical in the context Clare County Council submitted a Thursday, 14th June in the Round Room The case studies that will be presented at University Town and enterprise of indigenous origin. The of driving the implementation of UL’s formal application to Government at Dublin’s Mansion House and has the Summit will highlight the rewriting SDZ acting as a homeland for significant expansion across the River Shannon for the designation of the South Clare been devised for senior decision makers, of the public sector marketing rule book. • South Clare Economic Strategic We will hear impressive case studies investors and leaders of enterprise will into Clare in 2001 and its continued Economic Strategic Development Zone managers, marketing, PR, digital, Development Zone to create 3,500 on a range of diverse topics from social become a fertile field of opportunity for expansion in the county in the (SDZ) in the weeks that followed. If web, social media or communications jobs recruitment to artificial intelligence and entrepreneurs fresh from UL’s NEXUS seventeen years to 2018, the economic the application is successful, a detailed professionals in the public sector machine learning, using social media in incubation hub to gain partners, raise impact of universities worldwide on masterplan for the area will be developed including Government departments, At the beginning of April 2018, Clare emergency response situations and how capital and accelerate their innovative their hinterland, the inevitability by the Local Authority, in conjunction health service, tourism, local authorities, County Council sought Government first-responders enlist the public’s help ambitions. The early deployment of that this university hinterland will be with UL, local landowners and other education bodies, policing, political for major emergencies.” approval to designate the University of these enterprise partnerships will developed and the vital role of the site in stakeholders. staff, local enterprise offices and non- Limerick (UL) campus in County Clare greatly enhance the long-term prospects contributing significantly to the future commercial state agencies. The one day event on Thursday, and the hinterland of the campus as of young entrepreneurs in this ‘Shannon development of the Limerick Municipal Source: June 14th, 2018 will see leading an economic development zone with Valley’ site as is evidenced in current Area. The SDZ also will complement Mark Dunphy, Communications Officer, Attendees can expect to discover innovators and public sector marketing the capacity to generate 3,500 jobs. Silicon Valley models.” the ongoing implementation of the Corporate Services Department, Clare County insider tips, key trends, and practical professionals and journalists converge Elected Members and the Clare County Limerick 2030 Economic and Spatial Council, email: [email protected] takeaways to help their public sector for a series of panel debates, practical Council Economic Development SPC The SDZ site comprises the land area Plan. Under this SDZ designation the agency to perform at a higher level in case studies, and individual keynotes. today backed the South Clare Economic A digital transformation masterclass located north and east of the existing site has the capacity to become a game the digital world. There will be a range Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) Public Sector Digital Marketing takes place on Friday June 15th and University campus in County Clare, changer both regionally and nationally. of speakers focusing on a variety of proposal, which has been targeted Summit in June examines the role will put those learnings into action. bounded on its north by the corridor of Orderly, planned development as social media topics including how to and zoned in successive Clare County More information on The Public Sector the Limerick Northern Distributor Road envisaged in the legislation enabling of Social Media in the Public Sector integrate real-time social media into Development Plans. The Local Authority Digital Marketing Summit is available at: and on its west by the Errinagh Canal. designation as a Strategic Development emergency response management, how says the SDZ will be Europe’s first 21st Public sector communications staff from https://publicsectormarketingpros.com/ University of Limerick President, Dr Zone will see the site generate 3,500 to counteract fake news, millennial summit and Twitter: #PublicSectorDMS Century University Town providing for Ireland and abroad gather in Dublin Des Fitzgerald, commented, “University jobs in addition to the employment and Gen Z engagement and retention, Tickets can be purchased from https:// a full range of living, working, amenity, of Limerick is delighted to support generated in construction and spin- natural disaster response and how best publicsectormarketingpros.com/ social, cultural and recreational spaces Venue: Dublin’s Mansion House on Clare County Council’s application to off. Investment in both foreign and to encourage staff to embrace social summit with early bird rates currently integrated with a range of University Thursday, 14th June, 2018 Government for the establishment of indigenous industry will partner with media as part of an overall public sector available. VIP tickets are also available for facilities, including teaching, learning Who should attend? The summit is communications strategy. Speakers this Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) the University in expansion, placement, the Digital Transformation Workshop on and research. The SDZ also will include ideal for communication staff in the from a broad range of public sector adjacent to the north campus of the research and careers. The impact on Friday, June 15th from 10am to 4.30pm. the redevelopment and integration of public sector including Government agencies will contribute to the summit This exclusive workshop is open to just university. UL works closely with both Shannon Airport will be significant as the Errinagh canal, thereby providing Departments, Health Service, Tourism, including Mesa Police Department in 30 attendees and will allow you to work Clare County Council and Limerick City the site’s industrial population focuses the final inland waterway link between Local Authorities, Education Bodies, Phoenix, Arizona, UK Met Office, the directly with Joanne who will review and County Council to fulfil its strategic on international partnerships with the Lough Erne in County Fermanagh and Policing, Political Staff and non- HSE, An Garda Síochána, Trinity College your current digital communications development responsibilities in the Mid United States, Europe and the East. From Dublin, Beaumont Hospital, Irish Rail, Limerick City as well as the Shannon commercial state agencies. The event strategy and develop a roadmap for West. This designation would position a European perspective this is a project Dublin Fire Brigade, EPP Group in the Estuary. is ideal for senior decision makers, change. The VIP ticket includes entry to UL as the first university to participate of scale. From a national perspective EU Parliament, safefood, Limerick City the main event on Thursday. managers, marketing, PR, digital, in an economic SDZ, complementing this is an exemplar project enabling and Council Council, Marine Institute, Mayor of Clare, Councillor Tom web, social media or communications our longstanding commitment to the an early start to the balanced regional daa and Google. For further information, please professionals in the public sector McNamara, commented that he economic development of our region. development strategy and creating an contact, Kathryn Byrne, Limelight including Government Departments, welcomed the fact that Clare County A strategic development of this scale, early win for the vision set out for the The first dedicated marketing event Communications, kathryn.byrne@ Health Service, Tourism, Local Council is working in close collaboration in a position so close to and including Limerick Metropolitan Area as outlined for public sector professionals in limelight.ie and Nora Dunne, Limelight Authorities, Education Bodies, Policing, Ireland, the summit is being organised with the University of Limerick and other the university, would enhance our in the National Planning Framework Communications, nora.dunne@ Political Staff, Local Enterprise Offices by Joanne Sweeney-Burke of Digital agencies in the delivery of an Economic world-class educational and research and the National Development Plan.” limelight.ie and Non-Commercial State Agencies. Training Institute. Following the Strategic Development Zone for South proposition, would supplement our Commenting on the development of publication of her first book https:// Clare. Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of ongoing relationships with enterprise, Europe’s first ‘21st Century University Source: The Public Sector Digital lawenforcementobserver.com/ on how Clare County Council noted that “the industry and community, and would Town’, Brian McCarthy, Senior Planner, Nora Dunne and Lorraine Freir, Limelight Marketing Summit (https:// police forces have embraced social media Communications, email, nora.dunne@ establishment of a SDZ at this strategic further establish UL as a hub for Clare County Council, stated, “The publicsectormarketingpros.com/ in 2015, Joanne is currently writing her limelight.ie; and [email protected] location will be a catalyst for the further innovation. The announcement of the ‘Town and Gown’ environment that we second book on digital transformation summit ) is set to highlight how economic and social development SDZ plan by Clare County Council is are seeking to engender will be located in the public sector. Speaking on public sector organisations can, and of Ireland in line with national and another milestone in the story of UL’s on the foothold of Europe, merging the Public Sector Digital Marketing should be defending the truth in the regional policy, including the ‘National transformative impact on the economy education, living and employment, Summit, she said, “I am very well era of fake news. The first dedicated Planning Framework – Ireland 2040’ of the Mid West and we look forward modelled on the very best of modern aware of the remarkable strides being The Digital Economy and Society digital marketing gathering for public and ‘Limerick 2030 - An Economic and to the implementation of this over the on-campus living. It will be a model of made by the public sector on digital Index and Report published sector professionals in Ireland, it will transformation and this event hopes Spatial Plan for Limerick.’ The SDZ will coming years.” sustainable urban living, education and take a forensic look at how Ireland’s to share this innovation and progress establish a zone of substantial scale and enterprise, building on the standards public sector is undergoing a digital with professionals from across Ireland. On Friday, May 18th, 2018, Minister strategic importance, advancing the Liam Conneally, Director of Economic of the existing campus. It will offer transformation with in-house There is no doubt that the recession for Communications Denis Naughten region by creating a prime global site for Development explained at the opportunities for collaboration towards marketing and communication staff and caps on recruitment have taken a TD welcomed the publication of the

52 53 today’s digital opportunities.” • Europe’s Digital Economy and Dublin, with 50% of the projected the end of June, Minister for Housing, collaborative projects that will add value Society Index and Report 2018: population growth planned for our Planning and Local Government, and have a transformative impact on The Digital Economic and Society Index weblink https://ec.europa.eu/ towns, villages and rural areas and 50% Eoghan Murphy TD announced that the rural areas. The type of initiatives the (DESI) digital-single-market/en/desi for our cities. Urban Regeneration and Development fund will support will include addressing • DESI report telecoms chapter: The funds are: Fund will commence over the summer. infrastructural deficits in towns and The Digital Economic and Society weblink https://ec.europa. • €2 billion Urban Regeneration and “This is a €2 billion fund that will be villages, encouraging entrepreneurship, Index (DESI) is a composite index eu/digital-single-market/en/ Development Fund: will secure available to rejuvenate key parts of our and enhancing heritage and community which provides a summary of relevant scoreboard/ireland more compact, sustainable growth towns and cities, to ensure that they assets in rural areas.” indicators in relation to Europe’s in Ireland’s five cities and other • DESI 2018 Country report become more attractive places in which digital performance and tracks the large urban centres. evolution of EU member states in digital Ireland: link http://ec.europa.eu/ • €1 billion Rural Development to live, work, invest and visit. It is the Background information on the Funds: competitiveness. The DESI report information_society/newsroom/ Fund: will support job creation in first major national urban regeneration Project Ireland 2040 established four tracks the progress made by Member image/document/2018-20/ rural areas, address de-population programme for 20 years. Under this first new funds, with a combined allocation States in terms of their digitisation. ie-desi_2018-country-profile_ of rural communities and support call for proposals over the summer, we of €4 billion to 2027. Please see below It is structured around five chapters: eng_B4406C2F-97C3-AA9A- improvements in our towns, villages are looking to invest up to €500 million additional information on each of the Connectivity; Human Capital; Use of 53C27B701589A4F3_52225.pdf and their hinterlands that enhance in Exchequer funding which is available four funds. Internet Services; Integration of Digital the quality of life of communities under the NDP over the four years 2019 Pictured Joanne Sweeney-Burke, organiser of technology; and Digital Public Services. Source: and enhance their attractiveness for to 2022. There will be a requirement for €2 billion Urban Regeneration and the Public Sector Digital Marketing Summit The DESI was re-calculated for previous https://www.dccae.gov.ie/en-ie/news- families who want to live and work local authorities and other public bodies Development Fund: and CEO of Digital Training Institute years for all countries in order to reflect and-media/press-releases/Pages/ there. applying for this fund to invest at least The primary purpose of the €2 billion and Sharon Campbell, Deputy Head of changes in the choice of indicators and Minister-Naughten-welcomes-the- • €500 million Climate Action 25% of the total project value from other Fund is to secure more compact, Communications, Trinity College Dublin corrections to the underlying indicator publication-of-the-Digital-Economy-and- Fund: will support initiatives that data. Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and sources including their own resources sustainable growth in Ireland’s five European Commission’s annual Digital Society-Index-and-Report-.aspx contribute to the achievement of the Netherlands have the most advanced and/or complementary investments.” cities and other large urban centres Economy and Society Index and Report Ireland’s climate and energy targets. digital economies in the EU followed (the 59 eligible cities and towns are (DESI) 2018 which shows Ireland has • €500 million Disruptive by Luxembourg, Ireland ( in 6th place, Project Ireland 2040: four funds Announcing details of the new €500 listed in the annex). This funding, improved its overall ranking to 6th Technologies Fund: will see behind Luxembourg and ahead of the launched for rural development, million Climate Action Fund, Minister addition to normal sectoral funding place in the EU, up from 9th place in investment in the development UK), the UK, Belgium and Estonia. The urban regeneration, climate action Communications, Climate Action streams, is designed to leverage a 2017. Minister Naughten stated that “it and deployment of disruptive Index indicates that Romania, Greece and Environment, Denis Naughten greater proportion of residential and is significant that Ireland’s ranking has & innovation totalling €4 billion innovative technologies and and Italy have the lowest scores on risen to 6th most digitally-advanced applications, on a commercial basis, TD underlined that it is a significant commercial development, supported by the DESI. In 2017, all Member States society in the EU and is in the highest- targeted at tackling national and milestone in how we deal with climate infrastructure, services and amenities, improved in the DESI. Ireland and Spain On Wednesday, May 30th, 2018, An performing cluster of countries. The global challenges. change. “These funds are about turning within the existing built-up areas of our progressed the most (close to 5 points as Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD, and several fact that Ireland has also considerably innovative ideas into practical action. larger urban settlements. opposed to an EU average of 3.2). On the Government Ministers launched the €4 improved its performance in terms At the launch, Minister for Finance The €500 million Climate Action Fund other hand, there was low increase in billion Project Ireland 2040 funds for of connectivity - now ranked in 11th and Public Expenditure and Reform, is a key element of the Government There is a total of €500m Exchequer Denmark and Portugal (under 2 points). rural development, urban regeneration, place among EU countries, compared to Paschal Donohoe TD stated that, “the climate action and innovation. The strategy to reduce greenhouse gas funding to the Urban Regeneration 15th place last year - demonstrates the introduction of these four funds is announcement stresses that the four emissions, increase renewable energy and Development Fund over the years clear progress we are making. Ireland’s a major innovation in the reformed National Broadband Plan funds are a major innovation in Project and energy efficiency in our homes and 2019 to 2022, with €100 million of coverage of fast broadband has grown to funding model outlined in the National Ireland 2040. Rather than allocating communities. Next month, the first call expenditure available in 2019. An initial 89%, well above EU average, and we have Development Plan. The intention is The Government’s National Broadband funding in a ‘business as usual’ way to for applications to the fund will open call for proposals is intended to be made also made inroads on take-up. In order that the funds will play an important Plan (NBP) aims to ensure high speed Government Departments, money will and a wide range of innovative projects before the end of June 2018, allowing to improve high speed broadband access role in moving away from providing broadband access (minimum 30 be allocated competitively to the best across Ireland, particularly in rural funding resources to individual will be supported” Speaking about a 14 week period for development of megabits per second) to all premises projects, which leverage investment areas, my priority remains delivering organisations, essentially on the basis the €1 billion Rural Regeneration and applications with a targeted closing date in Ireland, regardless of location. The from other sources thereby ensuring the Government’s National Broadband of current investment patterns, in Development Fund, Minister for Rural at end September 2018. NBP has been a catalyst in encouraging that the impact of this investment Plan. My Department is in a formal favour of supporting collaborative bids and Community Development, Michael Proposals will be invited to be submitted investment by the telecoms sector. goes much, much further. The funds procurement process to select a company for funding important projects on a Ring TD stated that the launch of this under one of two categories: Today, almost 7 out of 10 of the 2.3 will be open to applications from state to roll-out a new high speed broadband competitive basis. The funds, which fund represents an unprecedented A) ‘Ready-to-go’ proposals that can million premises in Ireland have access agencies, local government, business, network in the State intervention area total an estimated €4 billion over the 10- to high speed broadband. By 2020, 9 educational institutions, chambers of opportunity to make a significant be initiated in 2019. Projects in this and this procurement process is now in year period of the National Department out of 10 premises will have access to a commerce, and others, but the ideal and sustainable impact on rural category will have the necessary its final stages. The Mobile Phone and Plan, will be open to submissions from high speed broadband connection. This applications will be collaborative efforts communities. “The €1 billion investment consents (e.g. planning) in place, be Broadband Taskforce in the meantime, this summer, with funding being is being achieved via a combination that break down barriers and silos. over the next 10 years will be targeted at at an advanced stage of design and be is making considerable progress in allocated from 2019 onwards. I believe of commercial investment and a State The call for applications will open in strengthening the fabric of rural Ireland. procurement-ready; or removing barriers to investment the four funds will play a very important led intervention. The Department of the coming weeks. The aim of the four It will support improvements in our B) Proposals that require further for telcos, as it continues to identify role in driving delivery of the National Communications, Climate Action and new funds is to help to ensure balanced smaller towns, villages and hinterlands development and that subject to and implement solutions to improve Planning Framework, developing our Environment is in a formal procurement regional development and are designed broadband and mobile coverage services five cities and the strengthening our to enhance their attractiveness for approval in principle, may be initiated process to select a company that will to stimulate renewal and investment in for customers in the short term. Ireland is rural economies and communities. families and enhance the quality of life in 2019 or in subsequent years. It will roll-out a new high speed broadband rural and urban areas, the environment a leader in several digital areas including of rural communities. The fund will also be necessary to detail, as part of the network in the State intervention area. and innovation, preparing Ireland for a the Trading Online Voucher Scheme In signalling his intention to issue support job creation in rural areas. The bid process, the key steps required for That procurement process is now in its future with 1 million more people and which is empowering our SMEs to get the call for proposals for the Urban first call for proposals will be launched further project development to enable final stages. 660,000 more people at work. Three online and trade online to capitalise on Regeneration and Development Fund by in the coming weeks and will focus on project initiation. quarters of new growth will be outside

54 55 The initial 2018 call will invite bids €500 million Climate Action Fund: that may be made for funding a large Cities Towns >10,000 population 2016 The core objective of the Climate project on a multi-annual basis, in 1 Dublin City and Metropolitan Area 1 Swords Action Fund is to support initiatives respect of which project expenditure that contribute to the achievement of can commence in 2019. There will be 2 Cork City and Metropolitan Area 2 Bray Ireland’s climate and energy targets in a cost effective manner. It is important further calls periodically, with funding/ 3 Limerick City and Metropolitan Area 3 Navan allocations to be increased incrementally to understand that this fund will be in as the programme becomes established. 4 Galway City and Metropolitan Area 4 Kilkenny addition to existing support measures and will seek to support projects that Bid proposals must be on a co-funded 5 Waterford City and Metropolitan Area 5 Ennis would not otherwise be developed. basis and must therefore demonstrate 6 Carlow The fund will be financed from non- significant stakeholder contribution exchequer revenues with excess income in the form of a combination of wider Regional/Cross-border drivers 7 Tralee from the petroleum products levy exchequer and/or state-sector capital 1 Drogheda 8 Newbridge redirected to the new Climate Action expenditure, local authority investment Fund. This levy currently supports the and/or land, or other asset contributions. 2 Dundalk 9 Portlaoise National Oil Reserves Agency in carrying The co-funding contribution must 3 Athlone out its statutory duties including storage comprise not less than 25% of the bid 10 Balbriggan of Ireland’s strategic oil reserve. In the value. 4 Letterkenny 11 Naas coming years, not all of this income will 5 Sligo be required for these purposes providing There will also be a requirement for 100% 12 Mullingar €500m for the Climate Action Fund (euro-for-euro) leveraging of committed 13 Celbridge over the timeframe of the National wider private sector investment in the Development Plan. In June 2018, the delivery of homes, community and/or Towns <10,000 population, >2,500 jobs 2016 14 Wexford Department of Communications, commercial floorspace in urban areas, (eligible for either urban or rural funds) 15 Greystones Climate Action and Environment will arising from investment to be made as a open the first call for applications for result of the Urban Fund. 16 Clonmel both public and private sector projects. 1 Gorey It is intended that the initial round of There is a wide range of projects that 17 Malahide applications will be assessed and funding will be eligible for this regeneration 2 Shannon 18 Carrigaline awarded by October of this year. In the and development funding, including coming weeks, further information on the acquisition, enabling and/ 3 Nenagh 19 Leixlip the Climate Action Fund, including or development of areas, sites and 20 Tullamore the call for applications and detailed buildings, relocation of uses, public 4 Westport evaluation criteria will be published by amenity works, community facilities, 21 Maynooth the Department of Communications, 5 Roscommon Climate Action and Environment. transport, services infrastructure and/ 22 Killarney or transition to a low carbon and climate resilient society, in an urban context. 6 Monaghan 23 Arklow Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund: Types of areas eligible for funding 7 Tuam 24 Cobh The €500 million challenge-based may include those that include a 8 Thurles 25 Ashbourne Disruptive Technologies Innovation concentration of low-intensity uses, Fund is to be implemented through the 26 Midleton such as storage depots or warehousing, 9 Dungarvan Department of Business and its agencies, underutilised ‘backlands’ behind streets 27 Mallow working with other research funding and buildings, or institutional sites that 10 New Ross bodies to develop Ireland’s innovation are suitable for re-development, as part 28 Castlebar ecosystem and responsiveness. The fund of an overall regeneration proposal. 11 Ballinasloe will see investment in the development 29 Laytown-Bettystown-Mornington and deployment of disruptive innovative Eligible Cities and Towns 12 Carrick-on-Shannon 30 Enniscorthy technologies and applications, on a A list of the eligible cities and towns is commercial basis, targeted at tackling included below. This may be reviewed 13 Trim 31 Cavan national and global challenges. A capital post-2021 following the next Census. 32 Wicklow funding allocation of €180 million is being made available to the end of 33 Tramore 2022. The first call under the fund 34 Ballina will be launched in June with a view to announcing the successful projects 35 Skerries in November. The fund is important 36 Longford in positioning Ireland for the future

56 57 and we expect that projects approved €1 billion Rural Regeneration provide a strategic integrated approach under this fund will be well-placed to and Development Fund: which is consistent with regional and leverage EU funding thereafter. It is The overall objective of this fund is local plans for the area. Projects must explicitly linked to National Strategic to deliver the strategic outcomes of demonstrate a capacity to add value Outcome 5 in Project Ireland 2040 Project Ireland 2040, and in particular to other public investments. There (A Strong Economy, supported by to strengthen rural economies rural will be a requirement for a co-funding Enterprise, Innovation and Skills) but communities by rejuvenating smaller contribution from other public or it is also envisaged the fund that will towns and villages, helping to diversify private sources – expected to be of support projects potentially linked employment opportunities in rural the order of 25%. The first phase will to several of the National Strategic areas, supporting the development also allow for technical supports for Outcomes called out in the plan. The of rural communities and improving preparatory groundwork for future Government Decision of 6 March 2018 their quality of life. The fund will phase investments, through Local confirms that the revised Research target towns with a population of less Authorities and other locally based Priority Areas for 2018-2023 will than 10,000 people, as well as villages organisations. inform the design of the Disruptive and outlying rural areas. Technologies Innovation Fund and so Detailed criteria are now being Source: our calls will align with the six themes developed for the first call for https://merrionstreet.ie/en/News- identified in our research prioritisation proposals which will be announced Room/Releases/Project_Ireland_2040_ Government_launches_four_funds_ in the coming weeks. The fund will exercise: ICT; Health and Wellbeing; for_rural_development_urban_ Food; Energy, Climate Action and encourage collaborative approaches regeneration_climate_action_innovation_ Sustainability; Manufacturing and between Departments, agencies, Local totalling_%E2%82%AC4_billion.html Materials; Services and Business Authorities and other public bodies, and Processes. Within each of these six the private sector, where appropriate, themes, we have identified specific to pool their assets and work with priority areas including Robotics, communities to transform our rural Artificial Intelligence, Augmented and towns and villages and their outlying Virtual Reality, Health and Wellbeing, areas. Proposals will be expected Advanced and Smart Manufacturing to be consistent with the National and Smart and Sustainable Food Planning Framework objectives and Production and Processing.

58 59 Chambers Ireland welcomes EIB €500m investment in National Broadband Plan

Speaking at the announcement on Broadband Plan and this funding businesses have waited far too long.” Friday, 13th April, 2018 of a €500m from the EIB confirms the necessity investment by the European Investment of investment in rural broadband For further information, please contact, Bank towards the National Broadband in Ireland. We have an opportunity Gabriel Doran, Communications & Plan, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive through the National Broadband Plan to Public Affairs Executive, email: gabriel. Ian Talbot commented that “inadequate revitalise rural Ireland and harness the [email protected] broadband coverage is a significant issue potential of businesses in every corner facing many rural businesses and leaves of the country to grow and succeed. Source: them at a serious disadvantage relative This funding is a vote of confidence to other parts of the country. Rural in the National Broadband Plan and http://www.chambers.ie/media/news/2018/04/13/chambers- ireland-welcomes-eib-%E2%82%AC500m-investment-in- businesses have been long awaiting Government must now act to make the national-broadband-plan/ the now severely delayed National Plan a reality. Rural Ireland and rural

Chambers Ireland welcomes Launch of Flood Risk Management Plans

On Thursday, May 3rd, 2018, Chambers and disruptive weather conditions. of Ireland. More detail is required to Ireland welcomed the launch of the Several of our members have been provide an assurance and relief to Flood Risk Management Plans accessible particularly affected in recent times homeowners and local businesses via the new website: www.floodinfo. by the increasingly unpredictable nationwide.” For further information ie from the Office of Public Works. weather patterns, which has resulted please contact Gabriel Doran, Speaking at the launch, Chambers in considerable cost to local businesses Communications & Public Affairs Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot in their region. While some progress Executive , email: gabriel.doran@ noted that the “launch of the Flood Risk has already been made in a number chambers.ie Management Plans marks a concerted of towns, clarity around the time effort by Government to commit to frame of implementation of the plans Source: a holistic, nationwide approach to announced today is essential for flood defences and to develop greater members throughout our Network, http://www.chambers.ie/media/news/2018/05/03/chambers- ireland-welcomes-launch-of-flood-risk-management-plans/ infrastructure to prepare for more particularly for the Chambers situated frequent occurrences of adverse in the heavily flood-afflicted areas

We are always interested in your views, so if you have any comments, suggestions or ideas for topics Orla O’Donnell, Editor that we should address in future issues, please do not hesitate to let us know: [email protected] Local Authority Times is also published on the IPA website: www.ipa.ie Local Authority Times Institute of Public Administration 57-61 Lansdowne Road, Dublin 4 Tel: (01) 240 3600 Fax: (01) 668 9135 Email: [email protected]

Printed on Recycled Paper

60 60