Cllr Cadogan Enright is shortlisted for his contribution to the Green economy in the NILGA awards 2025
In recognising outstanding contributions, community impact and service excellence across local government and our councils, the Northern Ireland Local Government Association has shortlisted Newry Mourne and Down District Council Councillor Cadogan Enight for a Green Economy award (writes Jim Masson©).
The 2025 Local Government Awards have now reached the finalist stage.
The campaign has seen an incredible response, with all councils submitting entries across the 10 categories, and a total of 69 entries submitted. Cllr Enight is the only nomination at Newry Mourne and Down District Council.
These awards are designed to celebrate the exceptional efforts our councils make within their communities.
They highlight innovative service provision, new initiatives, and the personal commitment of councils, councillors, staff, and partners.
The categories focus on showcasing the dedication, hard work, and creative approaches that local councils provide every day, while also creating opportunities for local government staff and members to step forward and shine.
Cllr Cadogan Enight, an Alliance Party councilor representing Downpatrick, said: “I am delighted to be nominated and shortlisted for this award.
“Basically I produced a book which I have ordered copies of to give to all 40 other councillors on Newry Mourne Down District Council prior to the discussion on setting the current rates level on his to make our council more financially more sustainable.
“It’s a practical ‘How To Do’ book and is more like a manual for councillors on how to use the Green Economy to reduce rates or provide better front line services to the ratepayer.
‘It is really about addressing the green economy and how it can help improve sustainability.
“How the book is organised is interesting. You can read through it in a half hour but there are QR Code links dotted throughout it to exemplify my arguments so it all makes sense. So the 32 page A4 sized book is essentially a digital filing cabinet packed with useful information and contacts on each idea.
“I was asked by the NI Region of the National Association of Councillors to write the book after they saw my detailed 32 page submission for the rates in Newry Mourne and Down detailing the dozens of Green and Energy Transition’ projects we could use to reduce rates and improve services in our Council.
“Subsequently my book was adopted by the National Association of Councils (NI Region) and they will be providing 500 copies to all the councillors across Northern Ireland to consider.
“Hopefully it will be a game-changer in the way that councils and councillors think about their finances. As a professionally trained accountant, I have an eye for financial matters and I’m delighted that this piece of work isreceiving recognition across NI councils.
“We are living in tough times regarding funding to councils and we need to think of new innovative ways to be more efficient.”
NILGA President, Councillor Alison Bennington, said: “Councils across Northern Ireland are committed to enhancing the communities they serve while also supporting wider government and civic initiatives.
“The Local Government Awards highlight the invaluable services provided to communities and local residents and serve as essential benchmarks for both government and civic sectors.
“They present excellent opportunities for councils to learn and grow, particularly in times when every penny counts, and we have finite resources.
“By learning from the best, we can continue to improve. This drive for advancement is at the heart of NILGA’s mission and is evident in the commitment of each of our 11 member councils.”
APSE Chief Executive, Mo Baines, said: “Across local government, day-in and day-out, our unsung frontline heroes go above and beyond to deliver for their local communities.
“These Awards showcase their commitment to the goals of continuous improvement and the delivery of excellence in public services.
“From maintaining beautiful parks and managing waste collection to attracting businesses and promoting arts, culture, and leisure, it is a real honour to recognise the fantastic work local councils do at the frontline. Congratulations and best of luck to all those shortlisted!”
Cllr Enright added: “”I appreciate the gesture of nominating me for the awards as it will help get these ideas out across the country.
“These ideas will improve the funding of Councils, make them less dependent on rate increases to fund their front line services and prepare Northern Ireland for the 4th Industrial Revolution.
“I want to thank the National Association of Councillors NI Region for their support in this project.”
The Awards cover ten categories altogether and sponsor partners/support bodies contributing are: agendaNi, Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE), CCLA Good Investment, Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), Hays Recruitment, Local Government Information Unit (LGiU), Local Government Staff Commission (LGSC), Quadra Consulting and William Johnston Memorial Trust (WJMT).
