A key focus of the work of OLAM is to ensure that the view of the local authority system, articulated through the CCMA and its committee structure, are conveyed to relevant Departments and Agencies. This is done on both a planned and responsive basis throughout the year, and combines the input of local authority practitioners with the research capacity of OLAM.
It is done in a number of different ways:
- Through submissions and position papers;
- In direct engagement with senior public servants and Ministers;
- By identifying opportunities for wider communications;
- Through press releases on relevant issues;
- By the production and distribution of factual material on local authorities;
- Through the annual Service Indicators in Local Authorities Report.
The County and City Managers' Association (CCMA) is the representative body for senior Managers in Irish Local Government. The Association meet on an occasional basis to discuss common areas of concern and promote a cohesive approach from the local authority system to issues of relevance and importance including development of best practice, implementation of legislation, and general operational issues. The CCMA develops positions, speaks on behalf of Managers and operates through a number of committees each of which is concerned with a specific policy area.
The Committees are:
- Community, Social and Economic Development;
- The Environment;
- Local Government Finance;
- Housing;
- Water Services;
- Land Use and Transportation.
The Chairmen of each of these Committees report to the CCMA. The committees also interact with relevant government departments and agencies on a structured basis. The CCMA itself is affiliated to and represented on many national and international bodies.