Offaly festival shortlisted for Local Government Awards

Offaly County Council's Art in the Landscape: Festival of Change has been shortlisted for the Chambers Ireland Local Government Awards.

The festival, which took place in Offaly in April of this year, has been shortlisted in the Diversity & Inclusion category.

The Festival of Change was a collaboration between Offaly County Council, Mayo County Council and Visual Artists Ireland and was funded through the Arts Council’s Invitation to Collaboration Scheme.

The festival offered an eclectic programme of events and activities, looking at the impact art, both physical and intangible, can have on place and people, socially, economically and culturally.

In it's 21st year, the Local Government awards will feature a total of 98 Local Authority projects shortlisted across 15 categories, reflecting the dedication and innovation taking place at local government level.

This year, a record number of 191 submissions were received from 27 Local Authorities, underscoring the importance of these awards in showcasing the exemplary service provided by Local Authorities to their communities.

Commenting on the announcement of the shortlist, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, said: “The Awards showcase the inventiveness and innovation that Local Authorities are delivering, which so often goes unnoticed.

“I would like to congratulate each of the shortlisted Local Authorities and acknowledge the excellent work being undertaken at local government level nationwide.”

The Excellence in Local Government Award winners will be announced at a ceremony taking place on November 21 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Northwood, Santry.