North Cyprus delegation visits Offaly to learn about community development initiatives

Offaly Local Development Company (OLDC) recently welcomed a delegation of local government representatives from North Cyprus for a fact-finding visit focused on community-led local development and rural regeneration.

The delegation, which included elected members and senior municipal officials, has responsibility for a wide range of local authority services, including community development, environmental services, infrastructure, public health, social services and strategic planning.

During their visit, the group learned about OLDC's work in supporting communities throughout County Offaly through programmes including LEADER, the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), the Rural Social Scheme and other publicly funded local development initiatives.

A key highlight of the visit was a tour of The Factory, Ireland's leading eco-friendly graphic design studio and printers. Supported through LEADER funding, The Factory showcased how investment in locally led enterprise can generate long-term social, economic and cultural benefits for rural communities while supporting innovation and sustainable business development.

The visit provided an opportunity for both organisations to exchange knowledge, share best practice and discuss approaches to strengthening local communities through partnership and targeted investment.

OLDC thanked the delegation for their visit and wished them continued success in their work supporting communities across North Cyprus.