On Friday, 19th September, Waterford LEADER Partnership launched its new strategic plan for the company at the Park Hotel in Dungarvan. The event was organised to recognise the achievement of months of dedicated consultation and planning with stakeholders, clients, staff and Board members.
Central to this plan is a values-based approach focused on respect, inclusiveness, accountability and effectiveness. This will be directed to achieving Waterford LEADER Partnership’s vision of a region with thriving, sustainable communities which have a strong sense of place. In this vision economic activity is progressive and dynamic, communities are united and empowered to have a major impact on their own futures, and where every individual has the opportunity to enjoy a better quality of life, with the support and leadership of Waterford LEADER Partnership.
The CEO of Waterford LEADER Partnership, Christine Rossi, commented that with this Strategic Plan the WLP Board and staff are reiterating our commitment to be a reliable and trusted partner who delivers on our programmes with the aim of making an important contribution to building communities that are economically, socially, culturally, and environmentally sustainable. Communities in which individuals, enterprises and community and voluntary groups can reach new milestones through community led local development.
The Chairperson of the Waterford LEADER Partnership Board, Austin Flavin, commented at the launch that Waterford is “a community that wants to shape its own future, and this strategy helps us achieve that.”
The Chairperson further emphasised that, in the creation of the Strategic Plan, “We have listened carefully to our staff and stakeholders, and that feedback has shaped our roadmap for the next five years.”
The plan contains seven goals focusing on organisational impact, resourcing, organisational capacity and organisational presence and profile to develop and grow the company to ensure that it is sustainable and aligned with the needs of individuals, enterprises and communities in County Waterford.
Councillor Niamh O’Donovan, Cathaoirleach (Chairperson) of the Dungarvan/Lismore District Council highlighted the deep and lasting impact of WLP’s work:
“Waterford LEADER Partnership has been a cornerstone of community-led local development in this county for over 30 years […] I’ve seen the impact of this work first hand from the rerouting of St. Declan’s Way under the Walks Scheme, to the new community centre in Ballysaggart, and the all-weather pitch in Knockanore. These projects are focal points of local pride, activity and growth.
Cllr. O’Donovan praised the Strategic Plan, stating that “This new plan sets out an ambitious and achievable roadmap with a clear commitment to sustainability, inclusion, and supporting local communities in adapting to a very changing world.”
The strategic plan was developed with the support of Ciaran Lynch and Eleanora Lynch of Community Engagement Partners (CEP) who guided the Board and staff through the process up to completing the plan.
The launch event brought together representatives from Waterford LEADER Partnership, Waterford City and County Council, Fáilte Ireland, Waterford Sports Partnership, SETU, the LEADER Evaluation Committee, and local community groups.
Link to Strategic Plan Summary – Strategic Plan 2025-2030
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