Category Archives: PEC

Ireland as a leader tackling Climate Change

You may think I need a psychiatric assessment when I say I am really excited about the fact that I have to write numerous submissions in the coming weeks. The Citizens’ Assembly is inviting members of the public, representative groups and citizen organisations to make submissions on the third topic they will consider ‘How the StateContinue reading “Ireland as a leader tackling Climate Change”

We must ensure an inclusive and fair energy transition plan for Ireland

“If you have been working with people in your community to take steps to move away from fossil fuels then you have a good idea of what is needed to shape a national vision and the actions necessary for a just national energy transition plan.” . We must unite and ensure the government create aContinue reading “We must ensure an inclusive and fair energy transition plan for Ireland”

Marine Energy policy in Ireland

Clare PPN Public Participation Network received the following invite on January 17th: Please see attached invitation to participate in an up-coming workshop “Wave Energy in Ireland: Considering the future – Perspectives on Policy”. This event which is being co-ordinated by SmartBay Ireland and the MaREI Centre, UCC will take place on the 26th January 2017 atContinue reading “Marine Energy policy in Ireland”

Eirgrid, the PPNs and “What is Participation in our Energy Transition?”

I became aware of this potentially subversive proposal within the Public Participation Networks PPNs over the Christmas period and I didn’t know what to do about it. Anyone I mentioned it to had a similar reaction as I did – it’s very suspicious. It is not sitting easy with me and I am one for trusting my gutContinue reading “Eirgrid, the PPNs and “What is Participation in our Energy Transition?””

The Cost of Participating

I’ve been invited to attend a policy design workshop in Dublin. Excellent initiative for shared visioning and policy framework building. This is my initial reply. Anyone identify? I’d love your comments and suggestions on this! “I’d love to attend and know that a rural transition voice engaged in public participation is important and will benefitContinue reading “The Cost of Participating”

Proposal for Comprehensive Public Participation in Irelands National Energy Transition Plan

As some of you will know I have spent the past number of years advocating for the People’s Energy Charter request for comprehensive public participation in Ireland’s National Energy Transition Plan. A brief synopsis of the outcome is here and more in-depth report on my work is here. The questions everybody asks are “What isContinue reading “Proposal for Comprehensive Public Participation in Irelands National Energy Transition Plan”

Brief Update on Transition in Ireland

My latest blog was written for the Transition Network ‘International’ series – an insight into national transition hubs. I detailed the work and achievements of the People’s Energy Charter. You can read it here. Meanwhile I am contemplating where to next. At a recent event in Cloughjordan Eco Village about 40 people were exploring how to accelerateContinue reading “Brief Update on Transition in Ireland”

Actions speak loudest

Why are public bodies supporting exclusive back door policy opportunities? Where are the rural voices in Irelands energy space? Where are the “energy citizens” and local authorities in energy planning? I recently attended the Energy & Climate Conference in Dublin Castle. This time I decided to see if I could encourage others from County ClareContinue reading “Actions speak loudest”

Irish Policy – Balance of Power to Input

Do you think profit driven companies should run the country? Do you trust politicians and civil servants to act in the best interests of society and future generations? I recently attended an Environmental Pillar review. During that time I was reminded of the role I have found myself in. A role I never for one second imagined forContinue reading “Irish Policy – Balance of Power to Input”