This article is from page 23 of the 2012-05-22 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 23 JPG
THE work of a recently established community development group in Clarecastle came in for praise at a recent meeting in Ennis.
At last week’s meeting of councillors in the Ennis East Electoral Area, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) urged the council to work with the group on projects that would help enhance the village. Eamon O’Dea, Senior Executive Engineer, stated that the council has already met with representatives of the group and has been directly liaising with members on individual issues.
He continued, “The council very much welcomes the proactive, positive approach taken by the community in undertaking such a visioning exercise and is very complimentary of the energy and passion that has been displayed to work in partnership with local authority is effecting further improvements in the Clarecastle area.”
He added, “The council will continue the engagement on the basis of the relationships already established with a view to positively progressing the many initiatives that have been brought forward for consideration by the group.”
Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) praised the work of the group. Cllr Pat Daly (FF) said it was important that the positive work of the group continue in Clarecastle.
Town manager Ger Dollard said the work of the group represented a “great example” of community led development. He said there appeared to be a great energy, passion and commitment around projects in Clarecastle at the moment.
He added, “It has been a joy to work with them and we will continue to do what we can in terms of the resources. That is something that the group are conscious off.”
In May 2011 a public meeting was held which identified positives and negatives about Clarecastle and produced ideas for developing the village and its environs. The then Acting Development Group made a recommendation in September 2011 that a Selection Committee would nominate a new Development Committee. An interim Board of Directors of the new Development Company was nominated and met for the first time in October 2011. The new company will aim to access government grants and funding streams. The company will also seek to develop crucial links with stakeholders and key influencers as well as urging feedback from members of the local community.