Intent: To raise awareness of report findings and garner support for the recommendations.
Details: To secure meetings and engage with elected/designated officials in order to communicate the findings of Healthy Homes Ireland's report; 'Our place: Towards Healthier Greener Homes'. Hosted a breakfast forum event to discuss to how Ireland balances the need to build affordable homes at pace with deli, ...
From [31 October] to [18 November], invited several DPOs including TDs, Senators, senior officials from local authorities, government departments, and other public service bodies to attend the Healthy Homes Ireland Forum breakfast event at the European Commission representation in Dublin. The purpose of the event was to discuss how Ireland balances the need to build more affordable homes at pace against achieving greener and healthier homes. - EmailOn [1 October, 20 October] emailed Martin Whelan to invite him to participate in a panel discussion as part of the Healthy Homes Ireland Forum on 3 December. - EmailOn [1 October] emailed Ciaran Mullooly MEP to invite him to participate in a panel discussion as part of the Healthy Homes Ireland Forum on 3 December. - Email
Intent: Hold an initial pre-planning meeting with them to identify any areas they may see as issues with the planning and proposed developments. Address and resolve these points in advance so that the planning application can proceed smoothly when it is submitted.
Details: Pre-planning meeting with Westmeath County Council
Intent: To raise concerns regarding the availability and capacity of childcare facilities in Athlone, particularly in the context of workforce participation and business growth.
Intent: To highlight the lack of bins at bus stops leading to visible rubbish accumulation, and to seek confirmation on whether bins will be installed. We aimed to encourage prompt action to improve cleanliness, public amenity, and the overall appearance of transport areas.
Intent: To raise questions regarding the planned extension of library opening hours, specifically relating to the potential for increased anti-social behaviour. We sought clarity on any proposed security measures or staffing arrangements to ensure the safety of users, staff, and surrounding businesses.
Details: Extended Library opening hours and associated security concerns
Intent: To determine whether Westmeath County Council has received any indication of Ireland’s EU Presidency 2026 events being scheduled for Athlone, and to ensure the town is positioned to host or support such events, maximising opportunities for visibility, diplomacy, and economic benefit.
Details: Enquiry on Ireland's EU Presidency 2026 Events
Intent: To obtain the latest information on the progress, timelines and next steps for the Joint Urban Area Plan, emphasising the importance of avoiding further delays and ensuring the plan supports investment, development, and coordinated growth across the Athlone area.
Intent: To seek clarity on the status of Athlone’s inclusion in the Living City Initiative, understand the potential benefits for urban renewal and upper-floor residential development, and advocate for the town’s eligibility to support regeneration, investment, and increased town-centre living.
Details: Athlone's inclusion in the Living City Initiative
Intent: To obtain clarity on the development and implementation of the Joint Strategy for the Regional Centre, including timelines, responsibilities and planned actions. We aimed to ensure the strategy progresses without delay and reflects the needs of Athlone’s business community, supporting coordinated regional growth and investment.
Details: Update on Joint Strategy for the Regional Centre
Intent: To brief stakeholders on the appointment of the new Festival and Events Coordinator, outline her early progress, and discuss strategic direction for upcoming festivals and events. We aimed to ensure alignment with the Chamber’s goals, enhance event impact for businesses and the community and confirm support for delivering a strong annual events programme.
Details: Discussion on Festival and Events Coordinator
