The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) and Maynooth University have celebrated the successful completion of the inaugural Micro-Credential in Spatial Planning Policy and Practice for Elected Members by 23 councillors, marking an important milestone in supporting the professional development of elected members.
A special event held at Maynooth University on Friday celebrated the successful completion of the programme by its inaugural cohort. The innovative micro-credential was co-designed by AILG and Maynooth University to strengthen elected members’ understanding of Ireland’s planning system, equipping councillors with the knowledge and skills to support informed decision-making and sustainable development within their local authorities.
The programme, which commenced in November 2025, brought together councillors from across Ireland to deepen their understanding of spatial planning through a combination of academic expertise and practical learning tailored to the role of the elected member.
The inaugural cohort reflected the diversity of local government, bringing together councillors at every stage of public service, from newly elected representatives to some of Ireland’s most experienced members. Their successful completion of the programme demonstrates a shared commitment to continuous professional development and lifelong learning in the service of their communities.
Commenting on the successful completion of the programme, AILG President Cllr. Mary Hanna Hourigan said:
“Planning is one of the most significant responsibilities entrusted to elected members, shaping how our communities grow and develop for future generations. As the role of the councillor continues to evolve, it is essential that elected members have access to high-quality learning opportunities that strengthen their knowledge, confidence and capacity to make informed decisions.
I warmly congratulate each of the 23 councillors who successfully completed this inaugural programme. Their commitment to continuous learning demonstrates the dedication of elected members across Ireland to serving their communities to the highest standard. I also extend my sincere thanks to our partners in Maynooth University for their collaboration in bringing this innovative programme to fruition.”
Head of the Department of Geography at Maynooth University, Professor Alistair Fraser, said:
“It’s easy for all of us to sit back and pretend we have all that it takes to move forward; what I find so encouraging is that Irish local government has councillors who want to develop new skills and knowledge to make this country better.”
Course Co-Lead, Caroline Creamer added:
“This micro-credential programme stems from the AILG-commissioned report, The 21st Century Councillor in Irish Local Government, undertaken by Maynooth University and the International Centre for Local and Regional Development (ICLRD) and launched in January 2024. As the role of the councillor becomes more demanding, increasingly focusing on local responses to global challenges, there is an acknowledged need for growing supports and capacity-building programmes for elected members. Maynooth University is delighted to be working so closely with AILG in meeting this need and providing our councillors with a valuable space for peer-to-peer learning.”
The programme was developed through a partnership between AILG and Maynooth University, with contributions from the Department of Geography and the Innovation Value Institute. Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, both organisations look forward to continuing their collaboration to support the professional development of elected members and strengthen local democracy across Ireland.
ENDS
Notes to Editor
Association of Irish Local Government (AILG)
The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) is the national representative body and the collective voice of Ireland’s 949 city and county councillors. The AILG plays a key role in shaping policy, delivering training and education for elected members, and promoting public awareness of the essential contributions made by local councillors and their governing local authorities. www.ailg.ie
For media enquiries, please contact:
Elaine Lynch, AILG – 087-3470274 | e.lynch@ailg.ie
