On Friday 24th March, Resident’s of An Garrán Residents’ Association were hosted by Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. John O’Leary, at special reception to commend the groups work in their community in Tramore.

The reception was held to celebrate the Residents’ Association being named as runner-up at the All-Island IPB Pride of Place awards  in January. The Association was nominated by Waterford City and County Council, in the Urban Neighbourhood (Under 3,000) category.

The ‘Pride of Place Awards’ awards, hosted by Dublin City Council and held in the Clayton Hotel in Dublin, celebrate the best in community development, and recognise the efforts of people in making their local neighbourhoods better places to live, work and socialise.

Please see below the speech made last Friday by Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. John O’Leary:

“As Mayor of Waterford City and County, I would like to welcome you all here to the Mayor’s Parlour in City Hall for a Mayoral Reception of An Garrán Residents’ Association.

Built in 2009, the estate development was a joint venture between Waterford City and County Council and Tuath Housing Association. The An Garrán Residents’ Association started out as a very small group coming together to develop a committee that provided a platform to bring people together on both sides of An Garrán and provide a range of supports through engagement with all the residents and the council. 

The estate consists of huge culture diversity with residents from many parts of Europe Ghana, Russia, Ireland, South Africa, Scotland, England, and Canadian French empowering a great community of residents. Adults and children learn about different traditions and cultures as part of everyday life and living together in An Garrán, and one of the most significant ventures to have taken place last year by the residents of An Garrán was the European neighbour’s Day this was celebrated by a fun day and barbecue for children and adults and a celebration of local national Boxing champion Dylan Rocket.   

The An Garrán Residents’ Association Action Plan is – To create a sense of community in An Garrán by hosting community events for all residents and ensuring there is a social inclusion for all people who live in the estate. To have a safe, secure place for residents to enjoy, to call home and have a place to live and raise their families and build relationships and with the support both housing authorities Waterford City and County Council and Tuath Housing and have a link to community Garda and other external Agencies. To ensure the people of An Garrán have a voice when it comes to the development of the estate. But most of all to create a Pride of Place.

Since the residents’ group was set up, there have been several environmental awareness projects such as Tree Planting, Clean Up Days, Daffodil planting, National Planting Month, and a Pollinator Projects Meet and greet days and fun events.

The residents’ association, Waterford City and County Council and Tuath Housing have created a very positive link with the community Gardaí for support. As a result, the Residents’ Association have witnessed less antisocial behaviour over the last year.  Residents took an active role to establish ways to deter anti-social behaviour. The community garda, Waterford City and County Council and Tuath Housing worked together to find solutions to stop nuisance fires close to An Garrán.

Thanks to the strong neighbourhood presence, it is fantastic to see such a strong sense of community among the An Garrán residents thanks to the Residents’ Association. I want to congratulate you the residents and the residents’ Committee on your fantastic achievement in the national IBP Pride of place awards held recently and where you were awarded your prize and recognition in this 32 County National Pride of place Competition,

The pride of place judging committee on their visit to the estate last July were delighted to meet such an enthusiastic committee and commended the sense of pride for An Garrán.

I commend you all on the hard work done in the past and hope it continues into the future.

Go raibh mile maith agat.”

If you are interested in setting up or joining a Residents’ Association in your area, please see the ‘How to get involved’ section on website and get in touch with a member of Tuath’s Tenant Engagement team today.

This month marks the one year anniversary since Tuath launched their sector leading research on Embedding a Culture of Tenant Engagement. Since then Tuath has launched their Tenant Engagement Strategy, 2022- 2025, and recommendations from this research informed and shaped this strategy, along with tenant consultation and feedback.

Click on the images below to view the Research Report and Strategy:

The aim of the research, which was undertaken by Dr. Joe Frey (University of Glasgow) and Dr. Peter Shanks (University of Birmingham), was to use evidence from good practice in the social housing sector in UK and Europe and examine current policy and practice in Tier 3 Approved Housing Bodies in Ireland.  

 This research has influenced the way in which tenancy engagement is implemented at Tuath. A dedicated team of five Tenancy Engagement Officers has been set up as well as gathering data and research to inform events for tenants to understand their needs, online and in-person communication channels for tenants has also been developed as well as collaborations with local services in Tuath’s communities.  

 This Tenant Engagement research and new strategy is only the start of the exciting and groundbreaking work that Tuath is doing to provide a first class service for tenants and building communities as well as homes. Join us on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages for more updates in the coming weeks about the key findings from this report and the measures that Tuath has undertaken with regards to embedding a culture of tenant engagement in a large AHB.

Minister O’Brien Opens New Homes at Historic Victorian-Era Building in Dublin

Ellis Court, one of Irelands first social housing schemes built in the 1880’s, has been brought back to its original use and now provides 22 homes in Dublin City Centre.

On Thursday 2nd of February, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien was joined by Lord Mayor of Dublin Caroline Conroy, for the official opening of 22 new social homes at Ellis Court on Benburb Street, a development which saw the refurbishment of one of the earliest social housing schemes constructed on the Island. Originally designed in 1885 by Daniel J. Freeman on behalf of, what was then known as Dublin Corporation, the building would remain in use for social housing purposes up until 2005, when severe fire damage meant it had to be vacated. The building has now been restored to its former use as part of a collaborative project between Tuath Housing, Dublin City Council and the Department of Housing.

The 22 new Ellis Court homes have now been allocated, by Tuath Housing, to people from the Dublin City Council housing waiting list. The project saw the building undergo major  restoration works that has retained most of the structure’s historical integrity, while successfully converting it to modern residential accommodation. The approved plans for the refurbishment included the building of a new extension, with the overall development now consisting of 19x apartments (6x one-beds and 13x two-beds) and 3x townhouses (2 x two-beds and 1x three-bed homes). The delivery of the new A-rated energy efficient homes is the result of a Public Works Contract , which has been 100% funded by the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage.

Tuath delivered its first homes in partnership with Dublin City Council in 2006 and has continued working with the local authority since then to deliver over 2,600 homes. Having delivered a further 1,900 homes throughout 2022, Tuath has now delivered over 10,100 homes nationwide, housing some 26,000 people.

Lord Mayor of Dublin Caroline Conroy said “It is a privilege to officially open the newly restored Ellis Court building on Benburb Street. I would like to congratulate my fellow councillors, who approved the transfer of this historic building to Tuath Housing, and congratulate council staff for their collaboration with the approved housing body. It is truly heart-warming to see a piece of Dublin’s history restored, while also providing sorely needed homes in the City Centre. I would like to congratulate the new tenants and hope they will be very happy in them .”

Minister Darragh O’Brien commented “Conserving the historical and cultural landscape of our cities is a key action under Housing for All. By restoring and retaining the rich character of our historical buildings, we can also reinvigorate the areas in which they reside. Ellis Court has a storied history as one of Ireland’s first social housing schemes, built in the 1880’s, so it is fitting that it will remain as such. I commend Dublin City Council, Tuath Housing, and those within my own Department for their collaborative efforts that has resulted in this beautiful restoration, providing 22 new homes in the heart of Dublin.”

Councillor Dermot Lacey, the Chairperson of the Housing SPC stated “This is a wonderful example of what can happen when the different partners in housing cooperate with imagination and good will. We need a lot more of this. It is also a superb example of marrying the old with the new in the physical sense of restoring these beautiful buildings. Again we need more of this. I wish all the new residents every happiness in their new homes”.

Sean O’Connor, CEO of Tuath Housing noted “At Tuath, we look forward to working on many more projects like this one and are delighted to note that we are currently working on four similar refurbishment projects in counties Westmeath, Mayo and Cork. Our aim is to create sustainable communities in places where people want to live, such as here at Ellis Court, where we will soon see the new residents enjoying their new homes in the heart of Dublin’s City Centre.”

Results from a survey carried out during Quarter 4 in 2022 have just been published, detailing resident’s experiences with the way Tuath delivers key services and maintains their homes. Tuath is delighted to announce that more than four-fifths of residents are satisfied with the overall
services provided by Tuath Housing (86%).

Carrying out this survey is just part of the work Tuath Housing does to involve residents in developing services. As well as publishing the results of the survey, Tuath Housing plans to put the findings to good use by working with residents to further improve the services provided to them.

Please click on the image below to view the Tuath Housing Resident Satisfaction Survey Q4 2022

As the cold weather sets in, households may face high energy bills this winter. Tuath are doing a series of messages on the current energy crisis and how tenants can save energy and money during this time.

Each week we will be updating this page to include useful advice and tips including Budgeting/ Financial Tips, Cost-of-living payments & welfare entitlements, Energy Customer Rights/ Entitlements. Keep an eye out on Twitter, Facebook and Whatsapp groups , where we will be linking to this page regularly with the release of new info.

You can also find useful information in SEAI’s ‘Reduce your Use’ booklet here:

1. Energy Saving Tips in the home

Did you know there are ways you can reduce your energy and fuel consumption in your home? Check out the following energy saving tips:

2. Cost of Living Payments & Welfare Entitlements

Did you know that in the 2023 Budget there are payments to help those households who may be on a lower income. Have a look at our Budget 2023 Cost of Living Payments guide to find what you might be entitled to and when you should receive it

You also might be entitled to social welfare payments and income that you are not already claiming.

3. Information on Electricity Supplier

Make sure you know your rights and entitlements this winter when it comes to your electricity supply and rates. Contact Electric Ireland on 1800 372 372. You can also find more information on the Commission for Regulation of Utilities website on how to deal with your utility supplier or network operator: https://www.cru.ie/home/customer-care/

From the 25th to the 27th October, Tuath were delighted to present the  Tuath Housing Awards 2022 for Best Kept Estate in four events that took place on each of the winner estates across Ireland. There was one award for every Region in which Tuath Housing regional offices are based – Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Louth. This year’ Best Kept Estates Awards went to: 

Dublin Regional Office – Overall Winner: Clonattin Lodge, Gorey, Co. Wexford 

Cork Regional Office – Overall Winner: An Radharc (Upper and Lower), Douglas, Co. Cork 

Galway Region – Overall Winner: Leargán, Knocknacarra, Co Galway. 

Louth Region – Overall Winner: Cois Cuain, Upper Point Road, Dundalk, Co. Louth. 

Entries for the Best Kept Estate Award were submitted by Housing Officers at Tuath and a selection for final judgment was made by the Housing Management Team. The overall winners were chosen based on the following criteria: 

1. Effort Involved 

1. Absence of Litter 

1. Planting of trees, shrubs, flowers in communal areas and gardens 

1. Condition of houses in the Scheme 

1. Absence of unsightly objects 

1. Special Factors 

Each winning estate received a plaque for display in the estate with a €500 euro voucher for Jones Garden Centre, Donabate.  

Tuath launched the Best Kept Estate competition in September 2022 for all housing estates on which Tuath residents live. The awards recognise the outstanding contribution of communities who come together to dedicate their time, energy, and resources to improve estates and foster community spirit. 

The staff at Tuath Housing would like to extend hearty congratulations to the 2022 winners of Tuath Housing’s inaugural competition for the Best Kept Estate Awards for their exceptional contribution to the communities in which they live.  

Results from a survey carried out during Quarter 2 have just been published, detailing resident’s experiences with the way Tuath delivers key services and maintains their homes. Tuath is delighted to announce that almost nine out of ten residents are satisfied with the overall services provided by Tuath Housing (89%).

Carrying out this survey is just part of the work Tuath Housing does to involve residents in developing services. As well as publishing the results of the survey, Tuath Housing plans to put the findings to good use by working with residents to further improve the services provided to them.

Please click on the image below to view the Tuath Housing Resident Satisfaction Survey Q3 2022

On Thursday 14th July, seven summer events took place nationwide to release the new Tuath Tenant Engagement Strategy 2022 – 2025 called ‘Your Voice, Your Home, Your Community’. The events were held in six counties: Dublin, Louth, Kildare, Meath, Westmeath and Cork City, with activities for residents ranging from face painting, soccer and art to digital skills classes and music. 

As the strategy details the seven pillars supporting the plan for how Tuath will involve residents in the delivery, and continuous improvement of services in the next four years, every event was centred around one of those pillars — Involve, Enable, Communicate, Build, Integrate, Embed and Empower. 

The official launch of the Tenant Engagement Strategy was held in Bishop’s Avenue, Co. Cork, with a special guest, former veteran RTE GAA analyst and Cork hurling legend Tomás Mulcahy. Residents enjoyed sports with Cork Women’s Football Club, face painting, ice cream, music and much more! With the EMBED pillar, Tuath will embed a culture of tenant engagement to involve residents in the housing services’ planning, delivery, decision-making and review processes.

INVOLVE stands for Tuath residents being aware of and understanding tenant engagement from the beginning of their tenancy so they know how they can get involved. We held a launch in Woodside, Enniskerry, Co. Dublin to celebrate this first pillar. Residents enjoyed ice cream, and a mobile pet farm visited the estate.

The ENABLE pillar means that all tenants will have a chance to influence how Tuath Housing provides services and makes decisions to provide increased housing services, standards and living conditions. Residents of Knightsbridge Retirement Village enjoyed afternoon tea. They took part in a Hi Digital presentation with ALONE to celebrate the launch and the pillar Enable.

A fun-filled community day was held in The Orchard, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, to celebrate the COMMUNICATE pillar. A bike safety workshop, face painting, ice cream and fun games were organised for children. Tuath will ensure effective, timely and relevant communications between residents and Tuath as their housing services provider.  

Residents in fFrench Mullen, Dublin, came together to celebrate Build with a Lego workshop, the creation of a colourful wall mural and a graffiti artist workshop. Children came together and created art for the scheme while enjoying pizza and ice cream as the sun shone! For Tuath, BUILD stands for ensuring safe physical surroundings to make sure that residents feel connected to their communities and local support. 

Over 80 local children and their parents participated in a football blitz in Oriel Park stadium, Dundalk, Co. Louth, to celebrate the  pillar. There were also three-legged races, egg and spoon races, dodge ball and penalty shootouts. The day’s highlight for Dundalk FC supporters, young and old, was a meet and greet with members of the squad and management team. With the INTEGRATE pillar, Tuath will support  the development of cohesive, integrated communities by ensuring that  staff have the knowledge and skills to help sustain vibrant, multicultural communities.  

Residents enjoyed an afternoon of connecting over tea and refreshments and looking at recent artwork created by residents. With the EMPOWER pillar,  Tuath will provide residents with relevant support, training, and development opportunities to develop the confidence and skills they need to get involved. 

We would like to thank  everyone who supported and attended all of the events for the launch of the Tuath Tenant Engagement Strategy 2022 – 2025.

You can view the full engagement strategy here  https://tuathhousing.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Tuath-Tenant-Engagement-Strategy-22-25.pdf