Kerry Group in partnership with NEWKD are delighted to present a Community Vibrancy Recognition Programme certificate to the Local Area Advisory Councils (LAACs) in recognition of their valuable contribution to the:
• Community Vibrancy of North, East and West Kerry areas.
• Leadership in Community, Environment and Rural Development.
NEWKD was established in 2008 through the amalgamation of four existing local development partnerships and the boards / committees of these bodies were amalgamated under a new Board to form Local Area Advisory Councils (LAAC). NEWKD now have 4 LAACs, one in each of our geographic areas: Tralee; Listowel / North Kerry; Sliabh Luachra / Castleisland; and Corcha Dhuibhne.
LAACs generally meet monthly and the members are local people who are involved in community, voluntary and charitable activity to benefit their own communities. Each LAAC elects 2 members to the NEWKD Board and also nominate members to evaluation committees. These volunteers are an invaluable link to the communities that they represent especially in sharing information, highlighting issues and bringing forward suggestions to the Board of NEWKD.
Some of the LAACs have been very active in pursuing local issues such as road planning, community insurance, access to employment / activation schemes, etc., and members have attended meetings of Kerry County Council’s Municipal area to have issues aired and addressed. LAACs have also initiated local actions, for example supporting members of new communities by organising a local walk, including food, for them.
John Stack, Chairperson, said that “NEWKD appreciate the excellent work of the Local Area Advisory Councils, and thank all members both past and present for their commitment to their communities and to the organisation in supporting and informing our important work.”
Frank Hayes, Director of Corporate Affairs, Kerry Group, also offered his congratulations and best wishes to all involved saying “ We are delighted to recognise all those that participate in their Local Area Advisory Councils and acknowledge the important voice they give to local communities through their volunteering.”
