Motion: Rural Parliaments

Rural Parliaments are an instrument for raising rural issues and bringing about positive change for communities and individuals.

 As such, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council:

•  recognises the value of Rural Parliaments already employed in several European countries, including Scotland
• notes the comprehensive report 'Rural Parliaments in Europe' commissioned by the Scottish government in 2012

• will contact the Executive Office and the other 10 Councils in this region, to lobby for the creation of a Rural Parliament similar to the current Scottish model, but also considering best practices from other European models.
• requests the Executive and all Councils in the North of Ireland, to co-finance a Rural Parliament in the north of Ireland and to work with the Irish government to form links across the island to establish an All-Island Rural Parliament. 
•  this Council should endeavour to host the inaugural Rural Parliament in the north when it is established.