For €395 You Too Can Discuss Homelessness but thankfully the reduced rate is €295! Plus VAT of course

Just as they do in energy, healthcare, education etc there is a “Social Housing Summit” purporting to cover: “Planning, Building & Delivering Our Social Housing Needs  This event will be of real interest to all housing specialists, local authorities, consultants, social workers, housing agencies, government departments, regulators, universities, suppliers and manufacturers to the sector. A one-day conferenceContinue reading “For €395 You Too Can Discuss Homelessness but thankfully the reduced rate is €295! Plus VAT of course”

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?””

Get a Job!

Today I had an appointment with Intreo, a government department that “offers practical, tailored employment services and supports for jobseekers” It’s a one stop shop to get you off welfare and back to work. I was concerned that there may be pressure put on me to get a job or go back to education but thankfully that wasn’t theContinue reading “Get a Job!”

Standing Rock

Connecting with activists on the far side of the world was a very soul nurturing experience. It’s always great to have allies in activism and the nearer the better when it comes to community action. In Ireland we have a great network of activists who collaborate across many issues. However it is also great to know that there areContinue reading “Standing Rock”

From Burnout to Balance

I’ve just spent 2 days at Silence & Voice Festival of Feminisms which was hosted by the inspirational Clare Womens Network. It was an amazing event they hosted on a shoestring. Years of work culminating in a powerful insight into feminisms relayed through song, dance, spoken word, conversation and extremely engaging speakers. I must admit IContinue reading “From Burnout to Balance”

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”

No Dumb Blond: Interview with an Environmental Campaigner

Originally posted on Frank Parker's author site:
I first became aware of Theresa several years ago when I came across her website dedicated to sustainable development. Some time later I received a telephone call from her after the County Arts Office had given her my name as a contact for the Laois Writers’ Group.…