Residents Association Handbooks are now available to support new communities across Meath. The recent publication, by Meath County Council, has been welcomed by members of Meath County Councillors. Sinn Fein Cllr Maria White advocated the need for such a publication at council meetings to help new and existing estates across the county. The handbook outlines how to go about setting up a residents association. How to conduct meetings and appoint of committee members. There is useful information on running meetings with structured templates to make it helpful to residents. It is available in print or online in Irish and English
Diego Keegan PC said: “I want to acknowledge the efforts made by my colleague Cllr Maria White whose motion led Meath County Council to develop the Residents’ Association Handbook, which will be a very useful resource for communities across the county. With the continued growth of new estates across Navan and Johnstown, it is more important than ever that residents are supported in building strong and connected communities.
“Residents’ associations play an important role in giving communities a voice and improving local areas for everyone. The handbook provides practical guidance and useful templates to help residents get started and to support those already involved in their communities.
“There are several estates across Navan and Johnstown that are seeking to be taken in charge by the local authority, including my own. Having an established residents’ association can significantly help in having an estate taken in charge by the local council. This reinforces the importance of having a resident’s association, with local residents working together for the betterment of their area.
“I would be happy to assist residents in any new estate in Navan or Johnstown who are interested in establishing a residents’ association or looking for advice on community initiatives and supports available through Meath County Council.
Cllr Maria White said: “This handbook continues to be an important support for residents since its publication, helping people to organise, connect, and advocate for their local areas. With ongoing development across East Meath and the wider county, it is essential that residents have access to clear, practical information to help them establish and maintain effective residents associations.
“The handbook includes guidance on forming associations, running meetings, engaging with Meath County Council, accessing grants and funding, and improving estate maintenance and safety.
“I would encourage residents to make use of this resource, it is available in both English and Irish and is accessible online or in hard copy through Meath County Council. My colleague Diego Keegan and I are happy to support residents and local groups where we can.”
