Co-operation Ireland welcomed local authority Chief Executives from across Ireland to Castle Leslie, Monaghan, on Thursday and Friday to explore how to develop sustainable tourism.

The two-day seminar heard from industry experts from across Europe who shared their experience of how local councils could develop their tourism offering in line with sustainability and environmental considerations.

Tourism Ireland, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism NI all attended the event to speak to the chief executives about challenges and opportunities within the sector.

The seminar highlighted the critical importance of regional tourism development as a cornerstone for economic growth and environmental preservation. Attendees explored how investing in sustainable tourism can unlock new economic opportunities, attract visitors, and foster a stronger sense of cultural pride—all while safeguarding the unique landscapes and heritage sites that make Ireland a globally admired destination.

The seminar was held as part of Co-operation Ireland’s All-Island Local Authority Programme – a strategic partnership comprising of Chief Executives from the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives, NI (SOLACE, NI) and Chief Executives from the County and City Managers’ Association (CCMA).  

The Co-operation Ireland Local Authority Forum is the only cross-border focused Local Authority group operating at a Chief Executive level. The aim of the forum is to progress and develop meaningful cross-border relationships within the local government sector by providing opportunities for co-operation on a range of issues of mutual interest to both administrations. 

The work of the Forum is developed through practical joint projects and the sharing of knowledge, expertise and best practice. It is funded by the Department for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Department for Communities.

Lar Power, Chief Executive, Kilkenny Council and Local Authority Programme Co-Chair, underscored the value of the event: “North and South working together to develop tourism is of huge value. This economic development will create sustainable jobs and new jobs. It’s fantastic when leaders can come together like this to share knowledge about how we can improve our administrative areas.”

Roger Wilson, Chief Executive, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Local Authority Co-Chair said, “It’s really important to be able to collaborate with colleagues across borders in a supportive environment. I’ve been part of the Local Authority Programme for over a decade, and it remains an excellent platform for building relationships, and sharing learning and best practice.”

Ian Jeffers, Co-operation Ireland CEO, said, “At Co-operation Ireland, we are proud to operate the Local Authority Programme, which plays a vital role in creating lasting connections and collaborative efforts between councils on both sides of the border.”