New insurance initiative for Tidy Towns groups welcomed by Offaly TD
Offaly TD John Clendennen has welcomed a new initiative that will allow Offaly County Council provide insurance cover for local Tidy Towns groups through a partnership with Irish Public Bodies (IPB) Insurance.
The scheme is due to be rolled out in the coming months and will be available to all eligible Tidy Towns groups in Offaly.
"I have seen first-hand the challenges that local Tidy Towns groups encounter in securing insurance cover, as well as the excessive cost of premiums," commented Deputy Clendennen.
"This is a step in the right direction to reduce the administrative and financial burden and allow groups to apply their resources to keep their communities clean, tidy, presentable and attractive for both residents and visitors alike.
"This is an issue I have been raising for some time. I am delighted to have played a central role in this important initiative over a number of years and look forward to seeing it positively impact in every local community.
"I am confident it will prove successful and believe strong consideration should be given to extending the initiative to other forms of community groups," the local Fine Gael TD added.
Speaking about the initiative, Minister of State for Financial Services, Credit Unions and Insurance, Neale Richmond said it "allows local authorities to offer insurance coverage to Tidy Town groups at no cost, thereby ensuring that this vital work can continue, bringing benefits to the community, and indeed the country as a whole."
Deputy Clendennen said he wanted to acknowledge the work of Irish Public Bodies in providing the required cover through the local authority, adding that he looked forward to the roll-out of the scheme to Tidy Towns Groups across Offaly in the coming months.