Ask what you can do for your community, says Ahern

The Taoiseach today called on the nation to think about what they can do for their communities.

Speaking at the first meeting of the Task Force on Active Citizenship, Bertie Ahern urged all residents to examine what it means to be an Irish citizen in the 21st century.

“I think active citizenship is asking not what your community can do for you, but what you can do for your community,” said Mr Ahern.

“We are all aware of the tremendous economic success Ireland has enjoyed over the last number of years.

“I feel that increased participation by the individual in this type of activity helps to cultivate a strong civic spirit which is hugely beneficial to the individual as well as to their communities.”

The Task Force will promote greater citizen participation in society, acknowledging the pressures of modern working life. It will make recommendations on how to encourage a greater degree of involvement by citizens in all aspects of life.

The group will also review trends in citizen participation across all walks of life, comparing them against international experience and review the experience of organisations regarding their influences on citizen participation.

“Our agenda is a challenging one, though one which I believe will prove to be rewarding,” added Task Force chair Mary Davis. “I am particularly keen to ensure that the many and various voices throughout our communities will be heard in the course of our work.”