Westmeath PPN seeks community representatives for key committees
Community groups across Westmeath are being invited to put forward nominations for representatives to sit on two important local decision-making committees.
Westmeath Public Participation Network (PPN) is currently seeking nominations from its member groups for a number of vacant representative positions, providing an opportunity for local organisations to have their voices heard in decisions affecting communities across the county. There are three positions available.
The vacancies include one PPN representative on the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) for the Environment Pillar, as well as two positions on Westmeath Community Development (WCD). The WCD vacancies comprise one Environment Pillar representative and one Social Inclusion Pillar representative.
The PPN said becoming a representative provides an opportunity for member groups to contribute directly to local decision-making and ensure that the views and experiences of community organisations are taken into account. The Local Community Development Committee has a key role in supporting and coordinating local and community development initiatives, while Westmeath Community Development works across a range of areas supporting communities and social inclusion in the county.
Nominations must be received by 5pm on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Westmeath PPN is encouraging eligible member groups and individuals interested in representing their communities to consider putting themselves forward.
An election process will be held if more nominations are received than there are available seats. Following the election, a panel will also be established to fill any current or future vacancies that may arise.
The PPN said efforts will be made to ensure balanced representation among those appointed, including a balance between urban and rural stakeholders, as well as gender balance and wider diversity.
The representative roles offer community organisations an opportunity to bring local concerns and priorities directly into discussions around development, environmental issues and social inclusion. Westmeath PPN is reminding potential nominees that information on the roles and the relevant nomination forms are available through its website.
The PPN’s representation structure is designed to give community and voluntary organisations a formal voice in local government and development structures.
With the nomination deadline fast approaching, groups interested in becoming involved are being urged to review the available information and submit their nominations before the 5pm deadline on September 30. Further information and nomination forms are available from Westmeath PPN, including details of the LCDC and Westmeath Community Development representative positions.