The Wheel Context

About The Wheel

A few key facts about The Wheel[1]:

• a non-profit support and representative body for community and voluntary organisations in the Republic of Ireland.
• established in 2000
• membership of over 500 organisations and individuals
• listens and responds to the unmet needs of community and voluntary organisations, both locally and nationally, in accordance with the highest standards of openness, accountability and effectiveness.
• sees itself as an advocate for organisations:

We recognise that a vibrant community and voluntary sector is vital to a healthy society and democracy. therefore we act as an advocate for community and voluntary activity in whatever forum we engage in...

Government Pushes for Engagement

In 2005, the Irish government announced its intention to establish a task force in order to recommend measures which could be taken as part of public policy to facilitate and encourage a greater degree of engagement by citizens in all aspects of life and the growth and development of voluntary organisations as part of a strong civic culture (Terms of Reference of the Task Force).

The Wheel's Response

Consultation

As part of this process, the Wheel decided to conduct a consultation on the issue of active citizenship, with a view to identifying the following:

• Views on who is an active citizen
• What should the States role be in active citizenship
• How can the Wheel facilitate active citizenship
• Reflections on the terms of reference for the Task Force on Active Citizenship

Consultation Principle

The principle purpose for conducting this consultation was to inform the Wheel of member/non-members views on different aspects of active citizenship. These views would then contribute to the Wheel’s own submission to the task force.

Consultation History

Previously, the Wheel had engaged in consultations with its membership, utilising traditional consultation techniques such as focus groups or requesting submissions by post. This time, however, the Wheel decided to open up participation in the consultation to the public, as well as its members. This was one reason why e-consultation was considered for the active citizenship consolation, albeit on a small trial basis. Overall, the Wheel hoped to consult representatives from member organisations, volunteers within the organisations, as well as members of the public.