Examining the power role of Local Authorities in planning for socio-economic event impacts

The socio-economic impacts of events, while mostly positive can often bring many detrimental implications to destinations and communities that host them. The statutory role of Local Authorities in Ireland to authorise and license large scale outdoor public events places Local Authorities in an ideal position to monitor and better manage the socio-economic impacts events can create at local level. This comparative examination draws attention to the current level of planning for the socio-economic impacts of events by Local Authorities at a nationwide level in Ireland. A multi-methodological approach was employed through a quantitative content analysis of Local Authority event management plans and guidelines and qualitative semi-structured interviews with Local Authorities in the Republic of Ireland. The findings drew attention to an overall dearth of socio-economic planning for events by Local Authorities. This lack of planning subsequently highlights a fundamental need for Local Authorities in Ireland to pay greater attention to generating greater levels of socio-economic sustainability in the legal process of planning for event management given their statutory role. This study presents an opportunity for improvement by Local Authorities and Event practitioners not only in Ireland but at International levels.