Community and Enterprise
Sligo County Development Board
The Department of Community and Enterprise facilitates the County Development Board which is a key structure in the County charged with devising and overseeing the implementation of a Ten-year Strategy for Economic, Social and Cultural Development of County Sligo 2002-2012.
Sligo County Development Board (SCDB) brings together representatives from Local Government and Local Development sectors, State Agencies operating at local level, and Social Partners, including the Community and Voluntary Sector. The purpose of the Board is to improve co-ordination amongst local service providers and to promote economic social and cultural development in County Sligo.
The Board is currently working on its Action Plan for Social, Economic and Cultural development for the period mid 2009-2012. The Plan places an emphasis on inter-agency co-operation and improved co-ordination of local public service delivery. Overarching Strategic actions of the Board include developing and improving the public profile for Sligo including the development of a Creative Sligo Brand along with an integrated tourism strategy.
The Board’s website www.sligocdb.ie continues to raise awareness of the many interagency and collaborative initiatives within the county.
Other Priorities include:
- Social inclusion and equality.
- Economic Development.
- Cultural Development.
- Sligo Peace and Reconciliation Partnership Committee – PEACE III Action Plan 2008-2010.
Social Inclusion Measure Group
The Social Inclusion Measures Group is a statutory sub-committee of the County Development Board, facilitated by the Department of Community and Enterprise. It provides a forum for coordinating the delivery of social inclusion activities in County Sligo and to identify and address any gaps and overlaps between agencies in the delivery of social inclusion work within the county.
Left-Right: Back Row – Conor Corduff, Chris Gonley, Geraldine Timlin, Hugh MacConville (Chairperson), Aisling Smyth, Mary Hough, Darragh Severs, Trevor Sweetman.
Left-Right: Front Row – Claire Galligan, Rita McNulty, Marcus Hufsky, Ann Donegan, Siobhan Gillen
In 2010, the group coordinated a calendar of activities to celebrate EU Social Inclusion Week. This was celebrated locally from Monday 17th – Friday 22nd October 2010 and saw a whole host of activities county wide to mark the specially designated week which signifies the EU’s commitment to promote social inclusion and eradicate poverty.
Spotlight on Your Community
One of the events held during EU Social inclusion week was a preview of the County Development Boards “Spotlight on Your Community” Project which is being led by the Department of Community and Enterprise in collaboration with Sligo Volunteer Centre in and Sligo County Community Forum.
The aim of the “Spotlight” project is to develop a web based presentation to raise the profile of some of Sligo’s vibrant and hard-working Community Groups and Projects and to capture the essence of Sligo’s true community spirit. A sample of the work carried out to date under the project, (which is sponsored by the Office of Social Inclusion) was unveiled at the “You and your Community Information Evening” in Sligo Northside Centre Thursday 21st October, 2010 to celebrate EU Social Inclusion week.
The project is being progressed through the hard and dedicated work of three volunteers have who given up their time to visit and capture activities of the participating groups. The volunteers are Sheila Lehany, photographer, Liam Guinnane, audio and James Fraher who is the Project Mentor and renowned professional photographer and graphic designer.
Comhairle na nÓg
Comhairle na nÓg Shligigh is a Sligo County Development Board Project set up as part of the National Children’s Strategy (2000). Comhairle na nÓg provides a forum for young people to discuss local and national issues of relevance to them. In 2010, the County Development Board received funding from the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs for the development of the initiative.
Comhairle na nÓg involves a working partnership between Sligo County Council’s Department of Community and Enterprise, Sligo County VEC and Foroige.
Along with a Programme of activities, the grant has enabled Foroige to employ a dedicated Youth Worker to work on the ground with young people to increase participation in the Comhairle na nÓg. Aims of the initiative include, creating a model of best practice, with emphasis placed on increasing the participation of young people through its AGM and in particular the participation of harder to reach young people. The initiative also aims to link Comhairle na nÓg into the policy making role of local agencies and in particular Local Government through structures such as Strategic Policy Committees (SPC’s) and Joint Policing Committees (JPC’s).
The 9th Sligo Comhairle na nÓg AGM hosted by the Sligo County Development Board took place in October, 2010. 120 enthusiastic young people from schools and youth clubs/organisations from all over the county were present making it the highest attendance to date. Topics discussed in facilitated workshops included Alcohol and Drug Use along with an open debate on general youth issues which included Mental Health, Bullying, Road Safety and Youth Facilities. The topics raised will form part of the Comhairle na nÓg’s work plan for the coming year.
The information generated at the workshops will be compiled and reported to Sligo County Council along with other relevant agencies. On a national level, feedback from the Sligo AGM will be given to the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (OMCYA) and to Dáil na nÓg with the hope of effecting positive change for young people in County Sligo.
The AGM also featured democratic elections to elect 25 young members to form Sligo Comhairle na nÓg for a period of 2 years. During this term they act as the collective voice of young people in County Sligo by lobbying on a range of issues affecting young people today. The elected membership mirrors that of Sligo County Council including the number of Councillors and its electoral areas. Five members of the Comhairle na nÓg were also elected to represent Sligo at the Annual Dáil na nÓg Event in Dublin. Elected members of Sligo County Council have been very supportive of the initiative.
Sligo Education Working Group
The County Development Board’s Sligo Education Working Group, chaired by Sligo Education Centre continued to meet throughout 2010. The Group is a sub-committee of the SIM Group. Its focus is to:
- Identify gaps in education service provision.
- Promote collaboration among agencies dealing with early school leavers
- Identify areas of concern outside the influence of the relevant agencies where the CDB might be able to lend its support.
- Develop community education and support.
- Target support locally within schools.
- Promote broader policy level responses to educational disadvantage.
Interagency Traveller Strategy Group
The Interagency Traveller Strategy Group is responsible for monitoring progress on the implementation of the County Development Board’s Interagency Traveller Strategy for County Sligo 2007-2012. The purpose of this Strategic Plan is to enhance interagency co-operation in the delivery of service and supports to the Traveller Community. The Strategy focuses on a series of integrated actions under the following thematic areas: Accommodation, Health, Education Training and Employment, Childcare and Youth.
The Actions outlined in the Strategy are funded mainly through the resources of the participating Agencies and some actions involve the pooling together of resources of a number of agencies. The Group is convened by the Office of Community and Enterprise.
In 2010, all CDBs were asked to review their Traveller Strategy Plan and to highlight a number of key actions which would demonstrate and support increased interagency cooperation. The Interagency Traveller Strategy Group agreed to hold a half day facilitated session guided by an independent facilitator to carry out the following:
- Examine ways in which the group could develop to a higher level of collaboration.
- Review the priorities of the Strategy for the period 2009-2012.
- Review the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of the Inter Agency group and its thematic working groups.
- Review the terms of reference of the group.
RAPID Programme
Sligo RAPID AIT is a network of representatives of the statutory and community sectors who have agreed to jointly plan and develop coherent strategies that will respond to the needs of the Sligo RAPID communities by developing integrated approaches in the development, delivery and co-ordination of existing and new services and facilities, always ensuring maximum and sustainable community participation.
RAPID Guiding Principles
Sligo’s RAPID programme is guided by adherence to the following principles.
- Community Participation and local ownership.
- Promote strategic planning.
- Co-ordination of State services.
- Targeting additional services, investment and facilities.
- Building on existing structures.
- Complementing existing structures.
- Flexibility.
There are 5 RAPID Cluster areas in Sligo Town:
- Cranmore Estate,
- Forthill Estate / Cartron Estate,
- Garavogue Villas / Doorly Park,
- St. Joseph’s Terrace / St. Brigid’s Place / Pilkington Terrace,
- Maugheraboy / Jinks Avenue / Treacy Avenue
The RAPID Programme in Sligo is co-ordinated at a local level by Pamela Andison based in the Community and Enterprise Department and by an Area Implementation Team comprising of the following agencies – FAS, VEC, Dept Social Protection, Sligo LEADER Partnership Company, Health Services Executive, Northside Community Development Programme, Sligo Family Resource Centre, Sligo Education Centre, Sligo Borough Council, Sligo County Council, Garda Siochana, Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership and three community representatives from the RAPID Community Representatives Team. The remit of the Area Implementation Team (AIT) is to take responsibility for the planning and implementation of the programme locally. The RAPID Programme is monitored by the Social Inclusion Measure (SIM) group to ensure that all plans developed are fully integrated within the County Development Board and agency strategies.
RAPID work is organised into a number of Strategic Themes:
- Health and Family Support
- Community Safety and Anti-Social Behaviour
- Youth Support
- Education
- Employment and Training
- Physical Environment.
Several sub-groups and working groups carry out projects and monitor the progress of service delivery improvements, inter-agency collaboration and development work in the themed areas. For example, the Community Safety Taskforce works to ensure increased safety and reduction in anti-social
behaviour by providing a forum for discussion and action between the local authorities, Gardai, community groups and other support services.
RAPID Community Safety Taskforce 2010
Achievements and Highlights of the RAPID Programme in 2010
Communities Against Illegal Money-lending (CAILM)
– this group comprises those service providers and community representatives who witness the devastating effects of illegal money-lending in Sligo, such as MABS, Credit Union, Gardai, Sligo County Council, Sligo and Social Services. RAPID areas are particularly affected by illegal money-lending due to the higher number of low-income households and higher rates of unemployment in these locations.
The “loan shark” activity is entrenched in the culture of neighbourhoods where many people do not have
bank accounts and need cash to cope with household expenses and other debts. The CAILM group has
compiled the known information about money-lending and works with three main aims: to seek to offer alternatives to illegal money-lending, to promote awareness-raising of saving and debtcounselling
services and to support the efforts made to enforce this crime in communities.
The group presented to the Joint Policing Committee of Sligo Borough Council and has had several campaigns in the local press and media to raise awareness of the issue and help victims to seek advice. A poster design competition was held in October 2010 and the school students who won were presented with their prizes by Sligo Credit Union, Sligo Education Centre and RAPID representatives.
Winners Oisin and Ryan of the Smart Save Competition October-November 2010 receive their prizes from CAILM group members
RAPID Urban Peace Collective
Nine different community and voluntary organisations came together under the RAPID umbrella to promote anti-sectarian, anti-racist and reconciliatory practice through sports, youth activities, arts and education work. The involvement of Sligo residents in cross-border and single identity work during 2009-2010 has enriched the experiences of several hundred participants of all ages, ethnicities and social backgrounds in fulfilment of the aims of the Sligo Peace III Taskforce Action Plan. The success of this initiative was acknowledged nationally when the Collective was asked to contribute to a Good Practice DVD featuring other Peace III funded projects.
The six projects comprising the RAPID Urban Collective are:
Touch the Sky Performance Group involved the Model, Home of the Niland Collection and Rehab Care and was a cross-border artistic political discussion project involving persons with a disability from Sligo and Northern Ireland and culminating in a film featuring the “journey” of the group.
Win Together was a sports-themed project operated by Sligo Immigrant Organisation, working to engage with members of the immigrant worker community, Irish adults and members of the many ethnic groups based in Sligo Town. This project involved soccer and volleyball tournaments which integrate rather than divide people by nationality and ethnicity and in so doing, raise issues of racism and prejudice through lively discussion and social contact. This sport event, both volleyball and football tournaments aimed to fight racism through team working and fair competition.
Youth Boxing, Dance and Equestrian Project organised by Sligo Traveller Support Group involved Travellers from North and South of Ireland with settled communities using the cultural traditions of boxing and horsemanship and contemporary dance to celebrate difference.
Schools Cross-Border Initiative, facilitated by Sligo Education Centre, was an educational initiative in which parents, schoolchildren and teachers from Sligo Town met with their counterparts in Northern Ireland to work towards common goals and engage in dialogue and activities about cultural, national and religious difference. There were cross-border residentials, outdoor pursuits and team-building to help the learning about each other’s cultures and undergo training in conflict resolution and management.
Soccer – the Beautiful Game was a project managed jointly by MCR Community Centre and Cranmore Community Co-operative and involved a diverse range of young people from these RAPID areas and Globe House coming together to share their common passion for football. While learning soccer skills and team playing, the young people also looked at issues that can bring conflict to the game such as sectarianism, lack of respect for difference and racism.
Inter-Cultural Training Programme – Positive Relations
As part of the Peace III RAPID Urban Collective, Sligo Northside CDP and Resource Centre is providing an Intercultural Training Programme. The aim of the training was to enable participants to challenge racism and sectarianism and other negative attitudes which can result in discriminatory practices against minority groups and individuals. The objectives were to deliver a programme which examines concepts and issues of diversity, equality, cultural difference, sedentarism, racism and sectarianism and which promotes an understanding of life from the perspective of members of minority groups.
The Billboard Project
It was decided to spread the message about the peace work we have been carrying out in Sligo by displaying large billboards in high profile locations in Sligo Town. All six projects were represented on the billboards which were developed and designed by the groups themselves and a graphic designer. The slogans and images creatively broadcast the challenges and successes of the work which this Collective has been involved in during 2010.
Economic Development Sub-Committee of Sligo County Development Board
Role of the County Development Board and Local Authority in Economic Development The role of the County Development Board in Economic Development is to co-ordinate the work of member organisations’ economic development activities and work on agreed ‘added value’ economic initiatives for the county, to promote innovation and entrepreneurship and to increase job opportunities. The CDB provides a focal point for the economic promotion of the county.
The role of the Local Authority in economic development is to enable the conditions for economic growth in relation to infrastructure, including broadband, land for industry use, energy, environmental protection as well as supporting research and education/training measures.
- Pictured at Training, Education and Enterprise Event in Enniscrone - Deirdre Finnerty, Geraldine Timlin, Bobby Kerr - Dragons Den, Councillor Mary Barrett, Councillor Gerry Murray, Siobhán Gillen, Gabriel Browne
Economic Development Sub-Committee of the County Development Board (CDB)
The agencies on the Economic Development Sub-Committee of the Sligo CDB take on a shared leadership role in the economic promotion of County Sligo and manage the implementation of the economic actions of the CDB’s Priorities for mid 2009 – 2012 and the various actions arising, which are constantly being expanded and developed.
The work of the Sub-Committee is guided by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and operates within the context of relevant national, regional and local policies, including:
- National Development Plan, National Spatial Strategy, Towards 2016, Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation
- Regional policies including those of Enterprise Ireland, IDA, FÁS, and the Western Development Commission
- Local policies of the Sligo County Enterprise Board, Sligo County Council, the Sligo County Development Plan and the Sligo and Environs Development Plan.
Quarterly meetings are held of the full Sub-Committee while various Sub-Groups on Education, Training and Up-skilling, Enterprise Promotion, Precision Engineering, Food, eCars and Renewable Energy meet frequently to progress initiatives.
Key Activities of the Economic Development Sub-Committee in 2010
- Training, Education and Enterprise events were held throughout the county as a coordinated interagency response to the downturn in the economy.
- Deficits in broadband infrastructure in the County were addressed with the Department of Communications.
- An integrated response to training and up-skilling was developed between educational organisations.
- A County Wide Tourism Strategy was initiated in collaboration with Failte Ireland
- The sub-committee facilitated a coordinated response from the state development agencies to significant closure of major businesses in the county.
- Potential European funding for redundant workers was explored via the European Globalization Fund.
Broadband Presentation to Sligo County Council
On the 1st March 2010 a Sub-Group of the Economic Development Sub-Committee made a presentation to Sligo County Council Members highlighting the lack of adequate Broadband coverage availability and infrastructure in the County and how it disadvantaged people in rural areas. A detailed technical report was commissioned by the Sligo County Community Forum in association with the County Development Board and with the assistance of funding from County Sligo LEADER Partnership Company. Following various meetings with representatives of the Economic Development Sub Committee, the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources agreed to take into account the issues raised in the Report in the next roll out of the National Broadband Scheme in 2011/2012.
- Presentation of Broadband Availability Survey of County Sligo - Peter Greene, Gabriel Browne, Jack Devaney, Rita Mc Nulty, Councillor Tony Mc Loughlin, Margaret Conlon, Michael Quigley, Michael Barrett, Shaun Purcell
Lissadell Fringe Festival 30th July – 2nd August 2010
Following an initiative by the Economic Development Sub-Committee a very successful Fringe Festival promoting Sligo over the August Bank Holiday Weekend was organised.
There had been great collaboration amongst all the agencies and companies/organisations involved and the enthusiasm and commitment of all concerned was one of the main reasons for the success of the event.
Proposed Economic Strategy of the Economic Development Sub-Committee for 2011 The Community and Enterprise Department of the Council and the Economic Sub-Committee of the County Development Board have reacted to the threats posed by the Economic downturn and have decided to focus on a number of key economic sectors.
Four specific economic sectors have been identified for particular attention and action in 2011:
- Precision Engineering/Toolmaking,
- Renewable Energy,
- Food
- eCars.
A more focused jobs oriented approach will be developed utilising more effectively the expertise of the CDB agencies, aligning the neighbouring Local Authorities, CDB Agencies and Colleges with differing geographical remits/priorities and linking up with players across the region and borders in adjoining counties and engaging with relevant private sector partners.
Members of the Economic Development Sub-Committee of Sligo County Development Board in 2010
| Name | Agency/Body |
|---|---|
| Shaun Purcell (Chairperson) |
County Sligo Vocational Education Committee |
| Dorothy Clarke | Director of Services, Sligo County Council |
| Brian Scanlon | Sligo County Community Forum |
| Carole Brenan | Enterprise Ireland |
| Councillor Tony McLoughlin | Sligo County Council |
| Hugh McConville | Irish Congress of Trade Unions |
| Ian Brannigan | Western Development Commission |
| Michelle Yewlett | IDA Ireland (Industrial Development Agency) |
| John Reilly | Sligo County Enterprise Board |
| Martin Henry | Teagasc (Agriculture and Food Development Authority) |
| Michael Quigley | Sligo LEADER Partnership Co Ltd |
| Miriam Scanlon | FÁS (Irish National Training and Employment Authority) |
| Niall McEvoy | Institute of Technology Sligo |
| Noelle Cawley | Fáilte Ireland North West |
| Peter Greene | Employment and Business Organisations |
| Ronan McArt | St Angela’s College |
Inter Agency Tourism
Sligo County Development Board (CDB) is developing a county-wide tourism strategy as agreed in its Priority Action Plan for mid 2009-2012. The lead agency for this CDB priority is Sligo County Council, through the Community and Enterprise Department.
Under the auspices of the Economic Development Sub-Committee of the CDB, a Tourism Sub Group is working with representatives from the relevant organisations and sectors, both public and private. The work of the Sub Group is building on the Failte Ireland North West Regional Strategy and is examining a range of areas including marketing, infrastructure, co-ordination, branding and promotion.
Development of the strategy continued throughout 2010 with an audit completed providing baseline economic data and visitor numbers for the County. This was followed up with a public consultation mid-year which yielded useful information and provided future direction.
Priorities identified in 2010 continue to be developed with the aim of being presented to the CDB for consideration in 2011.
The Committee draws on the expertise of existing agencies and committees such as Failte Ireland North West, the Marketing Sligo Forum, Institute of Technology, Sligo, the Sligo Leader Partnership Co., Sligo Tourist Development Association, Irish Hotels Federation etc. The aim is to ensure that all relevant players with interest and expertise are contributing to a ‘joined-up’ tourism plan for County Sligo.
PEACE III Programme
‘To reinforce progress towards a peaceful and stable society and to promote reconciliation.’
Sligo Peace and Reconciliation Partnership Committee, a sub-committee of Sligo County Development Board is delivering actions under the Peace III Programme in Sligo. This EU funded programme aims to address issues related to sectarianism and racism and to develop positive relations between minority and majority communities and across the border. With a budget of €1,960,605 actions undertaken under the Action Plan 2008-10 include the following:
- Inter-Faith
- Diversity Training
- New Communities
- Women and Peace
- Travellers and Peace
- Sport and Peace
- Rural Peace
- Urban Peace
- Conflict Resolution
- Youth Education
- Culture / Arts and Heritage
- Political / Historical
Activities undertaken by Sligo County Council as part of the Peace III Programme included a series of lunchtime lectures entitled ‘The Challenge of Inclusion’ which was attended by both staff and members of the public.
The Committee also hosted a visit from the CAN Peace Partnership a partnership committee which delivers Peace III Programme activities in Carrickfergus, Antrim and Newtownabbey.
Following a return visit by members of the Committee and further workshops together it was agreed to further develop this link.
Phase 2 of the Peace III Programme will commence in 2011 and activities under a newly developed Action Plan will run from 2011-2013.
Download a copy of the Peace Together newsletter at www.sligocdb.ie
Sligo County Council Joint Policing Committee
Joint Policing Committees were established under Section 36 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005. They offer local authority elected members, An Garda Síochána, members of the Public and members of the Oireachtas, the opportunity to make a significant impact on the quality of life within communities, by working together as a collective body. A Joint Policing Committee was established in the Sligo County Council Administrative area in December 2008.
Membership of the Sligo County Council Joint Policing Committees
- 13 local authority elected members with at least 2 from each local electoral area. Each political grouping on the County Council must be represented on the JPC. The Cathaoirleach is an ex-officio member.
- 5 members of the Oireachtas. Each political grouping represented by Oireachtas members should have representation among the five.
- The County Manager who is an ex-officio member and a person nominated by him.
- 2 Garda officers nominated by the Commissioner and accompanied by other Garda Officers as need arises.
- 3 persons representing the Community and Voluntary sector in the county.
Functions of the Joint Policing Committee
To serve as a forum for consultation, discussion and recommendation on matters affecting the policing of the Sligo County Council administrative area by:
- Keeping under review: levels and patterns of crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour in that area and factors underlying and contributing to the levels of crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour in the area.
- Advising the Local Authority and the Gardaí on how best they might perform their functions.
- Arranging and hosting public meetings concerning matters affecting the policing of the Local Authority’s administrative area.
In accordance with the JPC guidelines an annual work plan must be developed and agreed by the members. Priority actions of the 2010 Work Programme included the following:
Road Safety
On 20th October 2010, the Road Safety Sub Committee held a Road Safety Road Show in the Regional Sports Centre, Sligo, aimed at 4th year and transition year students. All post primary schools in Sligo were notified and a total of 548 students attended the show.
Rural Isolation / Older People
The Rural Isolation / Older Peoples sub committee has been actively researching the viability of establishing a Friendly Call Service in Co. Sligo over the past number of months. Funding of €5,725 has been secured from Sligo LEADER Partnership Co. Ltd., for initial set up costs, capacity building and training for volunteers.
Presentations were also made to the JPC by the Bill W Club, Sligo (an addiction support group) and the Domestic Violence Advocacy Service.
The Joint Policing Committee is a facilitating body and a forum for discussion. It engages with local communities to the greatest degree possible as they are important resources in tackling many of the issues currently being addressed by the Sligo County Council Joint Policing Committee.
Play and Recreation
Sligo Play Day 2010
The 2010 national Play Day in July saw Doorly Park taken over by children and families, as part of the National Play Day initiative which Sligo has taken part in since 2007. National Play Day is promoted by the National Play and Recreation Resource Centre (NPRRC), the key aim of which is to promote traditional games and activities and give all children an opportunity to take part (www.nprrc.ie).
This collaboration between Sligo County Council, Sligo Borough Council, Sligo County Childcare Committee and Sligo Sport and Recreation Partnership saw a collection of events relating to play and sports undertaken in the Doorly Park Playzone. Representatives from the Rugby Club and Sligo Rovers and other coaches were on hand to provide outdoor sporting and play activities.
Older children were instructed in the correct use of the newly installed climbing wall. Other activities included arts and crafts, story telling organised by Sligo Library Service and a variety of races such as the egg and spoon race, wheelbarrow and sack races.
Tidy Towns 2010
Sligo County Council has worked, over the last number of years, in partnership with Tidy Towns Groups throughout the county providing advice and financial support.
This relationship has led to:
- A steady increase in group marks
- Improvements in the physical enhancement works in towns and villages
- The promotion of community development.
Tidy Towns Committees who entered the National Tidy Towns Competition were also eligible for the Tidy Towns Grants Scheme to assist their on-going activities.
The local Tidy Towns competition organised by Community and Enterprise attracted in excess of 100 entries in 2010 with categories for Best Kept Town / Village, Best Kept School, Best Kept Shop Front and Best Kept Housing Estates. Special Merit Awards were given to a number of groups to acknowledge the extent of community involvement in their area and to a number of schools for their steady improvement in marks and continued participation in the competition.
Chewing Gum Litter Awareness Campaign
As part of their continuing involvement is the gum litter awareness campaign members of Sligo’s Comhairle na nÓg designed new gum wraps (a folded cardboard pack containing 10 sheets of recycled paper to assist in the responsible disposal of chewing gum.)
The new slogan on these gum wraps – ‘Stick It To Me or Pay the Fee’ – was coined as a result of work by the members of the Comhairle on a cinema advertisement to highlight the importance of the correct disposal of such litter. To coincide with the distribution of the gum wraps their advertisement was shown in the cinema in Sligo during 2010. Visitors to the cinema were reminded that the incorrect disposal of chewing gum is regarded a litter and can be subject to a fine of €150.
Tidy Towns committees have also been involved in this awareness raising and education initiative. In this year’s National Tidy Towns competition the commitment of Ballymote Tidy Towns Committee to tackling the issue of chewing gum litter was recognised when they were awarded the National Gum Litter Awareness Award.
Sligo Pride of Place Competition 2010
Three community groups from Sligo were awarded prizes in the Pride of Place competition at an awards ceremony held in Trim, Co. Meath on 14th November, 2010. The competition which is organised by Co-operation Ireland recognises and celebrates the vital contributions that community partnerships make to society. The focus is on people coming together to shape, change and enjoy all that is good about their local area.
The three entries from Sligo were:
| Group | Category | Results |
|---|---|---|
| Western Drama Festival and Phoenix Players | Community Arts Initiative | 1st place |
| Ballinafad Development Association | Population up to 200 | Runner-up |
| Ballintrillick Environmental Group | Community Response to unemployment | Runner-up |
Community groups from every county in Ireland were represented at the awards ceremony which is the final celebration event for the groups who have been chosen to represent their county in this prestigious competition.
- 2010 Entries in the National Pride of Place Judging Competition
In the lead up to the awards night judges from Co-operation Ireland visit each of the groups which gives them the opportunity to showcase the tremendous work and community driven activities which have evoked civic pride in their area. The judges visited the groups in Sligo in July and were impressed by the enthusiasm, community spirit and achievements of all groups.
Communities throughout Sligo have ensured that Sligo has featured in the results of the Co-operation Ireland Pride of Place Competition since 2004. This competition acknowledges and rewards people for their vital contributions to their local community and gives them the opportunity to showcase their achievements at a local and All Island level.
Community and Voluntary Grants Scheme 2010 and Burial Grounds
The Community and Voluntary Sector Grant Scheme 2010 attracted applications from a wide and varied selection of Community and Voluntary Organisations working in County Sligo.
The Scheme was divided into two categories:
- Community and Voluntary Sector General Grant
The aim of this Grant Scheme is to support and encourage the work and activities of Community and Voluntary Organisations throughout the County. A total of 53 applications were received and Groups were awarded grants of between €250 and €1000. - Burial Ground General Grant
The aim of this Grant Scheme is to support and encourage the work and activities of Burial Ground Committees who carry out excellent work in the upkeep and maintenance of their burial grounds. A total of 54 applications were received. Grant aid of €400 was given to county based burial ground committees.
Sligo Volunteer Centre 2010
Sligo Volunteer Centre is an information and referral service for voluntary activity in County Sligo. They offer advice to people who wish to volunteer and also offer support and training to ‘Not for Profit’ organisations who wish to involve volunteers.
2010 saw many changes in the sector, and needless to say external influences have had a considerable impact on the service of Sligo Volunteer Centre.
In terms of volunteers, we have continued to see a growth in volunteer numbers. The current economic climate has certainly meant that more and more people have more time on their hands. It also means that the expectations of volunteers have shifted slightly, with many people getting involved in volunteering with a view to re-training and in exploring new career opportunities.
With regards to Community & Voluntary organisations, many have seen resources – both human and financial cut. This has a direct impact in the capacity of the organisation to involve volunteers, ironically at a time when they need it most. It also has a knock on effect on the capacity of the organisation to manage volunteers once they get involved in their organisation. The success of any volunteer programme, does take an ongoing investment of time and resources.
Sligo Volunteer Centre’s resources have not increased over this period either, and so the challenge for us remains to support an overstretched, under resourced sector to effectively involve volunteers at a time when there is a wealth of highly skilled people waiting in the wings to get involved. We will continue to support the Community and Voluntary sector to best harness and embrace the opportunities that exist in these challenging times.
Staff
The staff and roles within the centre are as follows:
- Ms. Ciara Herity, Manager (Part time)
- Ms. Riona Rochford, Placement Officer (Part time)
- Ms. Paula Naughton, Outreach & Development Officer (Part time)
2010 Facts and Figures
- 297 volunteers registered with our service and were offered the support of our Placement Officer and other staff members.
- 55% of those volunteers who registered in 2010 had never previously volunteered
- 64 Community and Voluntary Organisations registered with our service. Between these and previously registered organisations 183 new volunteer vacancies were registered.
- From January 2010 to the end of December 2010 Sligo Volunteer Centre made 224 placements within a variety of Community and Voluntary Groups.
- In relation to the total numbers of volunteers who registered in 2010, the placement rate was 27% and a further 33% referred to organisations.
- All placements made in 2010 generated 17,277 voluntary hours to local groups.
Leading the Way
Sligo Volunteer Centre are proactive on taking the lead around issues or in developing programmes to meet a specific area of need or to promote volunteering to a particular sector.
Promotion of Volunteer Coordinator’s within Community and Voluntary Groups
Throughout the period 2009 and 2010, Sligo Volunteer Centre saw a huge gap in many larger organisations and in their capacity to involve and manage volunteers. The issue was around not having the resources to have a dedicated person to be a Volunteer Coordinator within the organisation. In other words, there was no person with responsibility for actively recruiting volunteers, responding to their queries, processing their applications and involving them in the organisation. With these tasks left amongst a number of staff and with it being nobody’s sole responsibility, it was difficult for the organisations to attract and retain volunteers.
Paula Naughton, Outreach and Development worker, did a lot of intensive work with a number of organisations to develop a voluntary role of Volunteer Coordinator. The role typically involves the volunteer carrying out their duties 1-2 mornings per week. It is now working very successfully in a number of organisations and we continue to work with further organisations to implement it.
Organisations where it is working to date:
- St. Johns Hospital
- Sligo General Hospital
- The Irish Wheelchair Association
The National Day of Volunteering 2010
Sligo Volunteer Centre launched the National Day of Volunteering 2010 in the Sligo County Council Chamber. National Day of volunteering is a national campaign promoted by Sligo Volunteer Centre and other member centres of Volunteer Centre’s Ireland around the country and is designed to provide people of all ages with an opportunity to get involved locally and try their hand at something new.
Launch of Sligo General Hospital Volunteer Programme
Sligo General Hospital took the opportunity of National Day of Volunteering to launch their new Volunteer Programme which involves Meet and Greet volunteers based in the hospital foyer to assist people in finding their way around.
- Group of Sligo General Hospital ‘Meet and Greet’ Volunteers at the launch of Sligo General Hospital Volunteer Programme on the National Day of Volunteering 2010
Information Day in conjunction with Positive Ageing Week
Positive Ageing Week is a week of events organized by the Sligo LEADER Partnership Co. Ltd., and other agencies to focus on the positive aspects of ageing and to promote services available to older people.
An Information Day, organised by Sligo Volunteer Centre and Positive Ageing Week committee was held in the Sligo Park Hotel on National Day of Volunteering. This was an opportunity for members of Active Age Groups to see what local community services were available to them.
Volunteer Management Training
Sligo Volunteer Centre rolls out a national programme of Volunteer Management Training developed by Volunteer Centres Ireland (VCI). The training is aimed at the person within an organisation who will be managing volunteers. The topics covered in training are:
- Planning for volunteer involvement.
- Recruitment, Selection and Induction of volunteers.
- Day to Day management support and supervision of volunteers.
- Tools to design and implement a volunteer policy.
The training is run over 4 sessions and is a multi modular course. Sligo Volunteer Centre ran Volunteer Management Training in May 2010 and October 2010 with 16 organisations completing the course.
- Participants of Volunteer Managment Trianing Courses 2010 receiving their certificates of course completion
Sligo County Community and Voluntary Forum
The Sligo County Community Forum was established in 2000 as a voice for the community and voluntary sector in County Sligo. During 2010, the forum gained 46 new members and now has a registered membership of 702 community and voluntary groups in the County. The Forum acts as a network in County Sligo to enable the Community & Voluntary sector to meet and address common issues and concerns, and put forward those views at a county level.
The Sligo County Community Forum is managed by an Executive board of 25 members. Four members are nominated from each of the five local electoral areas in County Sligo. A further five members are held for ‘sectoral’ representatives on the Executive.
During 2010, Sligo County Community Forum took significant measures to reduce costs and implement more effective work practices. E- Communication with members was greatly enhanced and the forum executive reduced their meetings to every 2 months. Subgroups were also established to oversee
particular projects. During 2010, the Forum was supported in its work by development consultant, Claire Galligan and their administrator, Catherine Brennan.
Key actions of the forum in 2010 were:
- Diversity Training Project: Throughout 2010 Sligo Forum in partnership with Claire Galligan Consultancy delivered a series of actions as part of a diversity training project on behalf of the the Sligo Peace and Reconciliation Partnership committee. A full evaluation of the project was carried out and is available on the forum website www.sligocommunityforum.com.
- Development of Policy Priorities for the Forum: Desk research was conducted to identify policy areas for the forum to consider. The purpose was for forum representatives to identify a clear agenda for attending meetings and have long term goals in making policy changes at a local level. A policy sub group of the forum identified the following key areas for action and advocacy:
- Meaningful representation
- Housing and infrastructure
- Community Development and Volunteerism
- Water Charges for Community Groups
- Policy Submissions – Submissions were made to the Draft Sligo County Development Plan and the County Development Board Tourism Strategy.
- ‘The impact of poverty in a changing Ireland’ seminar –Sligo County Community
Forum in association with SIM received funding under the European Year for combatting social exclusion and poverty. The seminar was held in September 2010, with Fergus Finlay as the keynote speaker. It identified key issues in relation to poverty in Sligo, a seminar report is available, seewww.sligocommunityforum.com.
- e-Bulletin and Website: 12 Monthly E bulletins were distributed to over 750 contacts. In addition the forum website is regularly updated. Due to funding constraints in 2010 only one newsletter was issued. This was produced and distributed in March 2010.
- Promotion and networking: A large number of press releases were published in local papers in relation to the forum work, in addition the project workers provided on-the-phone and face to face support sessions with community organisations on a range of issues.
- Claiming Our Future – In November 2010 a public meeting was hosted by Sligo County Community Forum to bring together people in Sligo to talk about ‘what kind of Ireland they want in the future’. The main outcome of the meeting was that people felt that strong political reform was needed.
- Research to explore the extent of racism and sectarianism in Sligo – late in 2010 the Forum was successful in an application to deliver a partnership action with Sligo Peace Partnership Committee to carry out research. It is expected that this research will be completed in early 2011 and will inform the Sligo Peace and Reconciliation Plan and the promotion of positive community relations for the coming years.
- Broadband Survey of County Sligo: During 2010, Sligo County Community Forum were successful in a funding application to Sligo LEADER Partnership Company Ltd. The purpose of the survey was to identify broadband ‘blackspots’ in County Sligo to influence broadband investment in the region. The survey highlighted that 5-10% of the geographical area of the county will remain without access to broadband when the national broadband scheme is completed at the end of 2010. The Forum received significant support from Sligo County Council in carrying out this work and using the findings from the survey, officials of Sligo County Council met with officials in the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, to highlight the issues in Sligo. From this meeting the Department has agreed to work with the council and the Sligo County Community Forum to address the blackspots identified in the new rural broadband scheme proposed for 2011.
- Representation on Committees: During 2010 the Sligo County Community Forum voluntary executive members continued to participate on a wide array of committees and boards at a local and regional level to advocate for the community and voluntary sector.
2010 was a very busy and challenging year for Sligo County Community Forum. Sligo County Council continues to support the forum through the provision of an office, access to office equipment and meeting facilities, without which it would be impossible to run on such a limited budget. Despite ongoing funding challenges the forum is stronger than it ever was, with an active and involved membership. It is crucial to the executive that all efforts are made to ensure the continuation of the forum into the future, given its key role in supporting and advocating for the community and voluntary sector in the County. Further details on the forum and its work is available from www.sligocommunityforum.com
