COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

MOTION NO.20

MOTION: Councillor L. O'Toole

Cathaoirleach's Business

That this Area Committee requests the Chief Executive to provide a comprehensive report on the allocation of community representatives across all areas in the county. Specifically the report should confirm whether Lucan currently has a dedicated community representative detail the geographical areas each community representative covers and include the population size of each area. Given Lucan's significant and ongoing population growth it is vital that the area is adequately resourced with dedicated community representation to meet the increasing needs of its residents. This Committee calls on the Council to consider the case for increased community representation in Lucan accordingly.

REPORT:

At full capacity, the Community Development Team comprises eight Community Officers, divided equally between the north and south of the Naas Road. Each team reports to an Area Community Officer. Lucan currently falls under the remit of the North Team. The Community Officer ordinarily assigned to Lucan is currently on maternity leave and is expected to return in September 2025. In the meantime, all community engagement and support for the area are being managed by the wider team under the direct supervision of the Area Community Officer to ensure continuity of service.

While efforts are made to ensure balanced representation, it is important to note that community officer areas are not strictly aligned to Local Electoral Areas (LEAs), and as such, exact population figures per officer are not directly applicable. Assignments consider a variety of factors including geographic spread, existing community infrastructure, and emerging social needs.

That said, we acknowledge Lucan’s significant and growing population and the increasing demand for community support in the area. In recognition of this, community development budgets have increased over the past two years. Additionally, under current workforce planning, the case for appointing additional Community Officers has been proposed to support areas experiencing higher growth and demand.