What groups do
Civil society organisations provide services, represent members, raise concerns and campaign for change. A local residents’ group, a disability organisation and a trade union can all take part, although their aims and structures differ.
A voluntary group may organise a food bank, while another presses for changes to welfare policy. Some organisations do both. Their membership and resources differ considerably, from small local networks to national bodies.
Participation and scrutiny
Groups can make submissions to consultations, give evidence to Oireachtas committees, organise meetings and scrutinise public decisions. Participation can improve policy by bringing experience and evidence to decision-makers; government still makes the decisions for which it is accountable.
For example, an Irish community organisation might make a submission on a local development plan or present evidence to an Oireachtas committee. Check the consultation or committee record to see what was submitted and how decision-makers responded.
Independence and representation
Groups may receive public funding without being part of government. Their independence, funding, membership and whose voices they represent deserve scrutiny. Freedom of association and the ability to disagree are important conditions for a healthy civic space.
Civil society does not speak with a single voice. Organisations may disagree, and well-resourced groups can find it easier to be heard. Ask how a group is funded, who participates in its decisions and whether it represents those affected.
Ways to participate
Scroll sideways to see the full table.
| Activity | What it can achieve | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Volunteer locally | Help deliver a service or organise neighbours | The group’s purpose and commitments |
| Make a submission | Put experience and evidence before decision-makers | The consultation scope and deadline |
| Join an organisation | Act with others on a shared issue | Membership, governance and representation |
People can participate individually or collectively, and groups need not agree with one another. A submission may inform a decision without determining it. Consultations, public meetings and committee records can show which evidence was considered, while a group’s annual report or governance documents can help explain who controls its work and how it is funded.
Taking part
You can join a local group, volunteer, attend a public meeting or respond to a consultation. Before contributing, check the deadline and scope, explain the experience or evidence behind your view and state the change you want. Some consultations accept individual submissions as well as submissions from organisations.
Participation is valuable but does not guarantee agreement or a particular outcome. Check the decision and any published response to submissions. Organisations themselves should be accountable to their members and the people they claim to represent; transparent governance and funding help others assess their work.
Keep reading: Learn about Oireachtas committees.
A local example
Suppose a community group wants safer access to a school. It might gather residents’ experience, consult families and make a submission to the council on a proposed road scheme. The council must consider its own legal responsibilities, available funding and other submissions before deciding. The group can then read the published decision and continue to monitor delivery. This example shows how participation can supply local evidence while leaving the public authority accountable for its decision.