Enright wins award for ‘green economy’ book

Enright wins award for ‘green economy’ book

2 April 2025

DOWNPATRICK councillor Cadogan Enright has won a major local government award.

He won the best initiative by a councillor category after writing a book on green economy issues which was commissioned by the National Association of Councillors NI Region (NAC).

The booklet – which has the potential to save councils millions of pounds – outlines how to improve frontline services and reduce rates by copying green economy initiatives from councils in Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

Entitled a “how to do guide to the green economy” it has been distributed to every councillor in Northern Ireland.

Cllr Enright was formally presented with his prize at last week’s Local Government Awards ceremony.

The Alliance politician, who represents Downpatrick and the Lecale Coast villages, has had a life-long interest in the environment and the economics of the so-called green economy.

He is a chartered accountant with a background in energy, economics and information technology. 

The Downpatrick man said he was “inspired” to write the book by NAC chairman Alderman Alan McDowell and Derek McCallan of the Northern Ireland Local Government Association who had seen a detailed rates submission he had made for Newry Mourne and Down Council and felt it should be shared across all Councils in Northern Ireland. 

“I am really delighted that the NAC has printed a copy of my book for every councillor and is talking to the representative body in the Republic to see if the same can be done there,” said Cllr Enright.

“The book is based on dozens of real-life financially successful projects from other councils in Scotland, England and the Republic. 

“I have included many QR codes in the book to help councillors link to detailed information on projects they think might work in their own council areas and helping them see what other councils have done in the past.”

Cllr Enright also thanked his Down High School sixth form student Cathal Quinn of Kilclief for his work in creating a digital version of the book.

“I must compliment Down High on promoting this type of real-world apprenticeship and Cathal on his creative and research ability,” he added.

Council chairman, Pete Byrne, has complimented Cllr Enright on his publication.

“These are finance-based ideas that will be put to all political parties to seek their support,” he said.

“I note that Cllr Enright was nominated by the DUP’s NILGA President Angela Bennington and these ideas are supported on a cross-party basis locally.”

Cllr Byrne added: “Cadogan has focused on saving or making money for the ratepayer, though all these ideas also help Council deal with its climate change targets.”