Who We Are

Leitrim Residents’ Associations Network was set up in 2004. The aim was to co-ordinate the residents’ associations of Leitrim’s local authority housing estates, provide information and advice, liaise with the Council and other bodies, and act on residents’ behalf in dealing with issues and improving amenities. A large number of new council estates were constructed in Leitrim during the ‘Celtic Tiger’ building boom, while others were greatly expanded. But concerted action was urgently needed to ensure good management, maintenance of public spaces, and to promote community development.

The Network currently represents 18 estates in Co. Leitrim. Its work around the county is actively supported and funded by Leitrim Development Company, and has been greatly assisted by their community worker, Bernie Donoghue. Founder members included Seán Wynne, who was the first Chairperson. His successor was Jim Penders, tireless activist for the Network and chairperson till his resignation in 2013.

Meetings of estate representatives are held on a monthly basis, usually the last Thursday of the month at 7.30 pm in the Drumshanbo offices of Leitrim Development Company. Every estate is encouraged to send one or more representatives, so that issues, views and concerns can be discussed and made known to the Council. Residents’ associations with community facilities in their estate are also welcome to host meetings from time to time. This enables the Network committee to visit estates round the county and to liaise with residents with specific concerns.

The work of the Network is co-ordinated by officers: Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, and recently the new positions of PRO and Vice-chairperson. These are nominated and elected each year at the AGM.

Network representatives formerly attended meetings of the Leitrim Community Forum and Leitrim Co. Council’s SPC (Strategic Policy Committee). However local government reorganisation in Leitrim during 2014 has led to a new consultative and participatory structure for the county, known as the Public Participation Network (PPN). This is now coming into operation in 2015 and has changed the way community and voluntary bodies are represented.

Note:

At one time many local authority houses were built on rural sites outside of estates. Residents in these houses may also have issues which need to be brought to the attention of the Council. They may choose to liaise directly with the Council themselves. But Leitrim Residents’ Associations Network has made provision for rural dwellers who wish to avail of our support or attend our meetings.

Our Constitution states:

Membership is open to residents, and Residents’ Associations representing local authority housing estates in Leitrim. Any resident of a rural household may affiliate to the nearest active local Residents’ Association who are members of the Leitrim Residents’ Associations Network.

If you are in this position please contact us for further information.