A LOOK AT NEW CONNACHT

Connacht is the smallest in area and population of the four historic provinces of Ireland. It is situated in the west of Ireland between the North Atlantic to the west and the Shannon river to the east. Historically, it has been neglected; in the first instance by the British occupiers and later by the Irish Free State government. Economically, it is the least developed province and consequently has experienced the greatest loss of its youth to emigration. Connacht is home to the Gaelic-speaking people of Ireland with the exception of other small pockets in Kerry and Donegal.

Within the EIRE NUA concept, Connacht would have its own Parliament, seated in Tuarn, the capital. The parliament would consist of a single chamber of deputies elected by the people of the province according to a system of proportional representation. The function of the parliament would be to 1) coordinate cultural activity and economic development within its regions, 2) initiate and promote legislation for the social, economic and cultural development of its people, 3) coordinate the development and expansion of third-level education, and 4) collect provincial taxes.

In order to maximize the concept of devolved government, Connacht would include within its geographical boundary two clearly defined economic regions, North Connacht and South Connacht. Each region would be administered by a regional board consisting of 1) representatives of district councils from within the region, and 2) expert representatives appointed by the provincial parliament. These regional boards would be responsible for establishing, promoting and coordinating their own social, economic and cultural programs.

Within each region, ten clearly defined districts would be established. Each district would be administered by a district council, covering a population of between 10,000 and 40,000 people. District councils would be responsible for 1) law enforcement and the administration of justice, 2) primary and secondary education, 3) public works and local planning, 4) welfare and social services, and 5) recreational development.

Voluntary Community Councils would be established at the local level to pursue local issues.

MAP OF NEW CONNACHT