On Thursday, 7th November, the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) and the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) hosted a landmark cross-border event titled “Respectful Leadership – Raising the Bar” at the Carrickdale Hotel, Dundalk. This unique gathering brought together Councillors and local government representatives from across Ireland to explore the vital role of civility and respect in political life.
Supported by the Irish Government’s Shared Island Civic Society Fund, the event highlighted the power of cross-border collaboration in strengthening local leadership and fostering peaceful, inclusive communities.
A Day of Insight and Inspiration
The event featured a diverse programme, with thought-provoking keynote speeches from notable figures. Hannah Phillips (Jo Cox Foundation Civility Commission) highlighted the importance of civility in transforming political dialogue, while Nóirín O’Sullivan (Chair, Oireachtas Task Force on Safe Participation in Political Life) delivered a powerful address on safeguarding democracy through respectful engagement. Dr. Kelly Fincham from the University of Galway and Carla Dejonghe, a member of the Brussels Regional Parliament and the Congress of Local & Regional Authorities in Europe, also contributed valuable insights.
Breakout sessions allowed Councillors from across Ireland to delve into practical themes such as fostering respectful council chambers, supporting diversity in public life, and building an inclusive political culture. Councillors shared their personal experiences and strategies for promoting respectful leadership and constructive political discourse at all levels of local government.
Strengthening Cross-Border Ties
The event further solidified the collaborative relationship between AILG and NILGA, long focused on addressing shared challenges faced by local Councillors across the island. Both organisations underscored the importance of partnership in advancing democratic values and ensuring safe, inclusive political participation.
Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon, AILG President, reflected:
“This initiative showcased the power of cross-border cooperation in fostering dialogue and learning. It is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. The event demonstrated the value of respectful leadership in driving positive change. Together, we’ve taken steps toward building a more inclusive and respectful political environment.”
Cllr Alison Bennington, NILGA President, added:
“The intimidation and abuse of Councillors and elected representatives undermine democracy, discouraging members from effectively representing their communities and deterring individuals from standing for election. This event, delivered in partnership with the AILG, provided a valuable platform to explore new pathways to effective leadership through dialogue, relationship-building, partnership, and shared learning.”
Looking Ahead
The event concluded with actionable outcomes, including plans for joint training programmes and webinars on political literacy, the development of best practice guidance on key topics such as Councillor security and allyship. New initiatives to promote diversity in leadership were also agreed with participants proposing to establish new platforms for shared learning, including exploring the formation of an All-Ireland Women’s Regional Caucus network to foster collaboration and share best practices across the island.
Tim Attwood, Foundation Secretary for the John & Pat Hume Foundation and MC for the event, noted:
“Respectful leadership is not just an aspiration; it’s a necessity. Events like this pave the way for real progress in our communities.”
ENDS
For Further Information or Media Enquiries
Elaine Lynch, AILG
E: e.lynch@ailg.ie | M: (+353) 87 347 02 74
Mark Maher, NILGA
E: m.maher@nilga.org | M: 07511868883
