This training programme is an initiative of the Department of Rural and Community Development, which commissioned Social Justice Ireland with the support of Waterford Institute of Technology to develop a comprehensive training course for PPN stakeholders. In doing so, the Department was responding to recommendations made by PPN stakeholders themselves in previous PPN Annual Reports. This training course demonstrates the Department’s commitment to supporting PPNs nationally and addressing their needs.
Social Justice Ireland, supported by Waterford Institute of Technology, have designed this training to support the Public Participation Networks and the Local Authorities to engage meaningfully in participation in local decision-making.
The training consists of seven lessons. To best replicate the classroom experience, and provide an opportunity for online networking, the training will consist of one 1.5 hour self-directed session where participants will access an online presentation, followed by one 1.5 hour online facilitated classroom session.
The training is open to an initial cohort of 25-30 participants selected by the Department of Rural and Community Development and is available to:
- PPN Workers
- PPN Secretariat Members
- PPN Representatives
- Local Authority staff engaged in the Community Section or in other sections which engage with the Public Participation Network
- Elected Councillors
The following selection criteria / criteria for expressions of interest will apply:
– An equal geographical spread across PPNs (5 participants per PPN)
– Representation of as many key stakeholder groups as possible
– Particular emphasis will be placed on those who are new to the PPNs
– Training cohorts are split into four groups. These groups will be drawn from the following PPNs / Local Authority Areas:
- Group E – Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Roscommon, Longford
- Group F – Monaghan, Cavan, Louth, Meath, Westmeath
- Group G – Laois, Kildare, Fingal, South County Dublin, DLR, Dublin City
- Group H – Limerick, Cork City, Cork County, Kerry, Tipperary
The schedule for the training sessions is as follows:
| Lesson Name | Aim | Timeline |
| Induction by WIT Centre for Technology Enhanced | To introduce participants to Moodle the virtual learning platform and provide a general overview of the training and its aims | 13th September 2021 Time: 2.00 pm |
| Lesson 1: An Introduction to PPNs I | A look at what the PPNs are, why they were established, and an introduction to the different stakeholder roles. | 1 st October 2021 Online presentations available
7 th October 2021 Zoom classroom |
| Lesson 2: Introduction to PPNs II | An in-depth look at some of the key stakeholder roles; the Codes and Charters; and how the PPNs can support Local Government policymaking. | 8 th October 2021 Online presentations available
14th October 2021 Zoom classroom |
| Lesson 3: PPNs and Local Government | A brief look at Local Government structures; procedures and functions of Boards and Committees; Role and Responsibilities of Representatives | 15th October 2021 Online presentations available
21st October 2021 |
| Lesson 4: Local Government Budgets | A look at the Local Government Budget process, discretionary and nondiscretionary spending, and an outline of effective submissions | 22nd October 2021 Online presentations available
28th October 2021 Zoom classroom |
| Lesson 5: Management and Operational Budgets | Staff management; budgets and governance issues; PPN funding; financial reporting. | 29th October 2021 Online presentations available
4 th November 2021 Zoom classroom |
| Lesson 6: Effective Participation in Consultations | A look at what makes an effective consultation and how to consult; effective advocacy and representation | 5 th November 2021 Online presentations available
11th November 2021 Zoom classroom |
| Lesson 7: Monitoring and Evaluating | Programmes and Policies Providing the tools to monitor and evaluate programmes and policies being implemented | 12th November 2021 Online presentations available
18th November 2021 Zoom classroom |
| Review Session and Evaluation | To review the content and delivery of the training and allow participants the opportunity to provide feedback. | TBC |
The training is open to PPN members only. Please let us know if you are interested in being a participant by sending us an email at [email protected]
There are only 5 places for each PPN.