Understanding policy processes can help communities engage more confidently and effectively. This section gives links to guides, tools and resources that explain how policy and consultation processes work and how community groups can take part.
Understanding local government and decision-making
How local government works
Plain-English explanation of how local authorities operate, including councillors, committees and decision-making processes.
https://www.localgov.ie/en/local-government-ireland/how-local-government-works
Strategic Policy Committees – overview
Explains the role of Strategic Policy Committees in developing local authority policy.
https://www.localgov.ie/en/strategic-policy-committees
Local Community Development Committees (LCDC)
Overview of the role of LCDCs in planning and coordinating community and local development.
https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/local-community-development-committees-lcdcs/
Public consultation and participation
Consultation Principles and Guidance
National guidance on how public consultations are run and how people can engage.
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/6e4d2-consultation-principles-guidance/
Making a submission – guidance
Practical advice on preparing and submitting responses to public consultations.
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2f1c6-how-to-make-a-submission/
Consultations portal (Ireland)
Central portal listing current public consultations across government.
https://www.gov.ie/en/consultations/
Public Participation Network resources
Public Participation Networks – overview
Explains the purpose and role of PPNs in supporting community participation in local decision-making.
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/5c2c4-public-participation-networks/
PPN User Guide
National guide explaining how PPNs work, including membership, representation and engagement.
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/47b8d-public-participation-network-user-guide/