Kimmins commends collaboration across the island as the International Centre for Local and Regional Development celebrates 20 years

Date published: 21 May 2026

Speaking at a conference in Dundalk, Minister Kimmins said: 

“Over the last 20 years, ICLRD’s work has strengthened relationships, informed better decision making and created space for shared solutions to shared challenges.  

“ICLRD continues to bring together planners, policymakers and communities to think beyond boundaries and will continue to play a vital role in shaping a more connected, sustainable and resilient future,

“Although infrastructure is very often spoken about in terms of roads, rail, water and buildings, I see my role as Infrastructure Minister as being very much about people and believe that people are at the heart of our infrastructure as we build more resilience for the future.

“The work of my Department is therefore not simply about building infrastructure but about enabling better environments for where we live.  Our work is woven into everyday life, from the safety of our roads and the resilience of our water systems to active travel, public transport and planning the connectivity that sustains communities.  

"If the last 20 years have demonstrated the value of cooperation, the next 20 years must be defined by deeper collaboration– ensuring that infrastructure, planning and policy work together to improve the lives of people across this island.”