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Minister Eamon Ryan meets MaREI project partners in Dingle Peninsula

 Minister Eamonn Ryan meets partners involved in the Corca Dhuibhne 2030 initiative
Minister Eamonn Ryan meets partners involved in the Corca Dhuibhne 2030 initiative

The Corca Dhuibhne 2030 initiative aims at transitioning the Dingle Peninsula to a low carbon and resilient community by 2030 and has several projects in progress to achieve this. The research aspect of these projects funded by Science Foundation Ireland takes an Engaged Research approach, a methodology that engages with communities to address societal challenges.

After touring local farms to see projects in the field, the Minister visited Dingle Hub where the initiative launched two Learning Briefs, (Making it Happen & Lessons Learnt and Recommendations for Policy and Practice) short publications that document their findings from the first three years of their work.

At the launch Minister Ryan heard that transition to a low carbon society does not happen without communities being fully engaged, supported and empowered, but that current mechanisms don’t adequately resource this component. The learnings also show that those doing the engaging at local level or within public bodies, local authorities and corporations need support in capacity building on community development and engagement skills. 

Dr Clare Watson, Engaged Research Officer, MaREI, commented:

 “Through engaged research with its Corca Dhuibhne 2030 partners, MaREI is tracking, analysing, and documenting experiential learnings as we work to co-create solutions to the climate challenge with the wider community, and these learnings can be shared to inform policy and practice”

Minister Ryan also heard that embedding sustainability, climate action and community engagement into the objectives of all funding mechanisms would be of benefit in developing a collective approach.

On launching the Learning Briefs he said:

“It’s great to hear about and see the inspiring initiatives of Corca Dhuibhne 2030 in operation today. You are really leading the way in exploring how communities can collaborate and thrive together as we face into the future. So many groups have come together from different disciplines of science, policy, industry and the community on this journey to a low carbon society. The Learning Briefs from the engaged research approach provide solid recommendations on how we can scale up climate action at the local and national level to build a sustainable future. They provide an evidential roadmap, not just for Corca Dhuibhne, but for communities throughout the country.”