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Monday 11 September 2017

Pat Spillane Ambassador for Action Plan for Rural Development says Boundary Extension is a Land Grab.

The National Conference and AGM of Muintir na Tire was  held in Ballacolla County Laois last Saturday and featured a number of high-profile panelists including Kerry legend and GAA pundit Pat Spillane.
Community CCTV and the new app, CÁIRDE, were among the items up for discussion which  was held as part of a wider event that was open to the public.
“The event was practical and informative, and appealed greatly to all the community groups, particularly rural ones who attended,” said Niall Garvey, Muintir na Tire CEO.

There was a panel discussion on the issues facing rural communities and their solutions. Legendary Kerry footballer, TV analyst, and Ambassador for the Action Plan for Rural Development Pat Spillane, and Minister Sean Kyne, who has responsibility for rural affairs spoke at the event.

Mr Spillane called for joined up thinking on the the issues facing Rural Ireland by the Government. He welcomed the fact that for the first time Rural Ireland now had a seat at the Cabinet.“The discussion was  frank and forthright.  In reply to Cork delegates who described the Mackinnon Proposed Boundary proposals as a huge transfer of resources from rural Ireland to Cork City,  Mr Spillane said that the proposals were nothing short of a 'land grab' by Cork City Council

There was also a focus on community CCTV. “This is very topical right now, especially with the recent announcement of €3 million in grant aid available, but many groups do not know where to start. “The panel included representatives from An Garda Síochána; a local authority; and a community group that made the journey. This provided a great starting point for any interested group,” said Mr Garvey. CEO Muintir na Tire
“We also had a number of exhibitors, including Muintir community councils and Community Alert groups demonstrating how they have successfully completed their own projects. Several CCTV suppliers had exhibits, as will other service providers, including Pobal, who provided information on the Seniors Alert Scheme – pendant alarms,” said the CEO.

“Muintir na Tire also previewed our new app: CÁIRDE, before its formal launch later this month. It is the new Muintir na Tíre service designed to connect, secure and empower communities. It works on the principles that there is safety in numbers, and people want to help each other.

“It connects local people, family, friends and neighbours so they can provide help and assistance to each other in times of need,” said Mr Garvey.

Muintir National President, Michael Sweeney.said “We are very grateful to our sponsors, Community Finance Ireland, for their support. All in all, there was something for  anybody with an interest in community matters”,

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