COMPANY REGISTRATION NUMBER: NI 060144 CHARITY REGISTRATION NUMBER: 104019 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Llmited by Guarantee Financial Statements 31 July 2022 Finegan Gibson Ltd Chartered accountants & statutory auditor Causeway Tower 9 James Street South Belfast BT2 8DN The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Financial Statements Year ended 31 July 2022 Page Trustees, annual report (incorporating the directols report) Independent auditovs report to the members 22 Statement of financial activities (including income and expenditure account) 28 Statement of financial position Notes to the financial statements 30 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) Year ended 31 July 2022 The trustees, who are also the directors for the purposes of company law, present their reF)Ort and the financial slaternent5 of the charity for the year ended 31 July 2022. Reference and admini$trative detalls Registered charity name The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Charity registratlon number 104019 Company registration number Nl 060144 Prlnclpal offlce and reglstered Belfast School of Architecture & Built Environment offlce Ulster University Jordanstown Campus Newtownabbey BT37 OQB Anlrim The trustees Ms J Pyper Mr D Mcsodey Prof G Knapp Ms M Maclrltyre Prof L MagLsire Prof B Donnellan Mr P Maguire Ms F Mccandless (Resigned 15 July 20221 (Resigned 24 February 2023} {Appoinled 7 March 20231 Company secretary Ms Caroline Creamer Auditor Finegan Gibson Ltd Chartered accounlanls & slatulory auditor Causeway Tower 9 James Street South Belfast BT2 8DN Bankers Bank of Ireland 1 Donegall Square South Belfast BTI 5LR Sollcitors Elliot Duty Garrett Royslon House 34 Upper Queen Street Belfast BT1 6FD The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) fcontinuedj Year ended 31 July 2022 Structure, governance and management Status and Administration The International Centre for Local and Regional Development IICLRD) is an incorporated charity which was incorporated on the 11 July 2006. Details of the registered office, Executive Committee members and advisers and other relevant information are given on page 1. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development is a company lirnited by guarantee and is governed by ils Memorandum and Articles of Association. The company officially registered with The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland in November 2017- Northern Ireland Charity Number NIC104019. Organlsatlon The ICLRD is a North-South-US partnership established in 2006 to explore and expand the contribution Ihat planning and the development of physical. social and economic infrastructures can make to improve Ihe lives of people on the island of Ireland and elsewhere. The partner institutions include.. the Maynooth University Social Sciences Institute (incorporating the National Institute for Regional and Spatial Analysis INIRSAII at Maynooth University., the Belfast School of Architecture and the Built Environment al Ulster University., and the National Centre for Smart Growth Research and Education, University of Maryland. Each of the current partners brings together complementary expertise and networks on both a North- South 8nd East-wesl basis- creating a unique. all-island and international cenlre. The ICLRD continues to expand its collaboration with other institutions and has established working relationships with individual faculty and researchers from universities and research institutions including.. Mary Immaculate College-university of Limerick, University College Dublin, and the University of Manchester. The ICLRD is very open to involving other academics and research institutions in ils activities. The ICLRD continues to work closely with other organisations involved in cross-border research and activities including the local authority-led cross-border networks. The current Executive Committee Members are fully briefed on the ICLRD'S mission and activities and, on joining the Committee were advised of their legal responsibilities as outlined in the current Articles and Memorandum of Association {including requirements in regard to Ihe code of conduct and conflict of interesti. The Executive Committee Members have ultimate legal and financial responsibility for the affairs of the ICLRD. although the management of the organisation is generally delegated lo the staff, through the Executive Officer. Since May 2014, this responsibility lies with the Director, Caroline Creamer. The Executive Committee meets on a quarterly basis - 01 more frequently as and when required. The Executive Committee Members are accountable for the activities of the ICLRD. They provide direction and leadership, oversee the ICLRD'S finances, and approve projects. The Executive Officer coordinates these activities. The number of Executive Committee Members currently on the Board of ICLRD is 7. but the Board may from lime to time register an increase or decrease in Executive Members. The current 7 Executive Committee Members include an independent chair. three independent Non- Executive Directors. and representatives appointedlnominated by each of the institutions that are 'core partners, of the ICLRD and who are also subscribers lo the Memorandum of Association.. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (conllnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 la} Maynooth University.. Ib) Ulster University.. and Icl University of Maryland. The post of Vice-chair is currently vacant, with the Board deciding in 2022 not to fill this position, Rather, where the Chair is unable lo attend a Board meeting, the Trustee from the host institute will sland in as 'Acting Chairf. Additional Non-Executive Committee Members from private and non-profit bodies, with an interest in the ICLRD'S activities, may be invited to join the Board in the future. The Executive Committee Members may, from time lo time and al any resolution of the Board at their absolute discretion, make such regulations as they see fit relating to the Executive Committee Membership of the ICLRD. Committee Mernbers may also, from lime lo time and at any time by like resolution at their discretion. alter such regulations to such an exlenl and in such manner as the Executive Committee Members shall see fit. The Executive Board is supported in its activities by an Independent Advisory Board. The Advisory Board will provide a link with institutions and individuals in the academic world, government. non- governmental organisations and the private sector on both sides of the Atlantic. In 2019, discussions commenced at Executive Board level on re41efining the function ofthe Advisory Board to ensure it better met the needs of the Board and Director in guiding and informing the Centre's future direction. New Terms of Reference were devised. and invitations were issued lo potential new membership from the island of Ireland, U.lQ and U.S. (identified because of their expertise in a range of spatial planning domains). The inaugural meeting of the newly constituted Board, which will be co-chaired by Mr. padraig Maguire, Senior Planner, Meath County Council (member of the Executive Board} and Prof. Peter Roberts, Chairperson of Northern Sreland Housing Executive INIHEI, took place on 2nd September 2021. Further meetings have been heKI on 14th September 2022; 4th May 2022.. 1st February 2022. In July 2017, the inaugural meeting of the ICLRD Research Forum was held in Belfast. This Fofum was independenlty chaired by Prof. Deborah Peel, Emeritus Professor, University of Dundee until July 2020. The purpose of this Forum is lo provide the research netsvork with a structure through which they can inform future work programmes and funding applications, while also Creating a Spa￿ in which they can identify common interests and opportunities for organising shared events and jointly penning research articles. In November 2022, Prof. Diana Fitzsimons was appointed as Independent Chair and the Research Forum mel on-line, for the first time since COVID pandemic, on 9th February 2023. To strengthen the relationship between the three operational levels of the ICLRD namely, Executive Board. Advisory Forum and Researeh Forum- the Executive Board has sanctioned that.. The Chair of the Research Forum will hold a seal on the Advisory Forum". A Co-chair of the Advisory Board {where not already an Executive Board member) will attend the Executive Board meetings in an 'observer' capacity. In support of the day-t(￿daY operations of the programme, the following procedureslmanuals were pul in place andlor updated during this financial year.. ICLRD Financial Adminislralion and Management {updated February 2023). ICLRD Fraud Policy (approved January 2019. and reviewed annually)., ICLRD GDPR and Privacy Statement (approved August 2019, and reviewed annually)., ICLRD Risk Register Islanding iteml-, 8nd ICLRD Register of Interests {standing item - with annual review every August., thus aligning with The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued) Year ended 31 July 2022 ICLRD'S ffnancial yearl. During the course of this financial year. the Executive Board met on five occasions.. 22 June 2022., 13 April 2022 (also the AGM).. 16 February 2022., 10 November 2021., and 8 September2021. Objectives and actlvltleg ObjgctiTV9S The ICLRD has a specific role lo play in contributing lo the social. economlc and territorial cohesion of the island of Ireland through.. Addressing information gaps and providing new insights through independent joined-up research and policy advice on cross-border and all-island spatial planning and local and regional development issues le.g. governance and cr055-border collaborations, community development. economic developmenL tourism. renewables and the green economy, the environment, service provision, etc.}', Improving the capacity of communities and local. regional and national government representatives and officials lo engage in mutually beneficial cross-border cooperation through capacity buildinglanimation programmes., Assisting local governments and comrnunities in translating policy into 'on the ground. action", Acting as a calalysl and conduit lo bring relevant public and private actors. North and South, together to work on common goals., and Promoting international coopemtion and exchanges. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (conllnu8dJ Year ended 31 July 2022 Objectives and activitie$ (¢onUnued) Mission Statement- PubliTC benefit The public benefit of the ICLRD is in the advancement of practical cooperation and mutual understanding between both jurisdictions on the island of Ireland by bridging the policy-praclilioner divide and pursuing increased cooperation and capacity among regional and local authorities in spatial planning. economic development. regeneration and eonflicl resolution and reconciliation on the island of Ireland. This is achieved through the advancement of education via action research, the provision of of training, eapacity-building and animation programmes, and the holding of consultation events on emerging policies and directives. The ICLRD researches and promotes cooperation in the areas of spatial planning, regional development, government and governance. sustainable development, community development, professional education, climate change, environmentsl management and protection. The ICLRD is focused on building the capacity of regional and local authorities lo manage spatial planning on the island of Ireland as a whole. The ICLRD provides independent, joined-up research and policy advice on cross-border and all-island spatial planning and local and regional development. The Centre plays a proactive role in peace and reconciliation on the island by bringing together policy- makers. practitioners and academics. North and South, lo work on common goals in the areas of coordinated spatial planning and social and economic development at local, regional and national levels. It does this through research. policy advi￿ and publications" professional education and capacity building programmes that assist local governments and communities to translate policy into 'on the ground, action.. and active outreach and networking that includes Conferen￿$, workshops and international cooperation and exchanges to identify best practices. stimulating economic growth and improving the living conditions lo allevi21e and prevent social conflict is al the heart of the Centre's mission. The ICLRD is focused on building the capacity of regional and local authorities, development agencies, cross-border networks and community and voluntsry organisations to identify strategic areas of cooperation. Through its research and professKinal education programmes, the ICLRD works with policy-rnakers and Ii)cal leaders to improve the environments in which people in Ireland. North and South, live and work, with particular emphasis on the needs of marginalised and divided communities. It combines the promotion of regional planning and development as a tool for competitiveness with local planning and development as a way to remedy the continuing problems of social disadvantage. The ICLRD brings together an interdisciplinary partnership of academics, practitioners and senior policy- makers in the areas of regional and community planning. cross-border cooperation, governance, community and economic development and mapping analysis.11 dows upon the expertise of Maynooth University. Ulster University, and the Univeisity of Maryland to tackle the challenges facing Ireland, North and South. It provides a model for others lo follow.. a prestigious cross-jurisdictional research and development Centre that draws upon the intellectual capital of Ihird-level institutions and research cenlres at home and abroad lo deal with key sotial. economic and environmental issues facing the island of Ireland - and countries in Europe and further afield that want to learn from Ireland. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (conllnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 ObJectlves and activities (conlinu¢d) Target Each year the ICLRD seeks lo undertake action research that eontribules to the advancement of education by fostering and building an understanding of the complex all-island and cross-border dynamics and drivers of change in cross-jurisdiclion cities. towns and rural areas Our eonferences, technical workshops and participation in netsvorks provide policy and operational linkages be￿een central and local policy-makers and among officials and practitioners. Finally, our executive training programmes help local officials acquire the skills and the cutting-edge tools for effective planning and management in a challenging context. Since ils inception, the ICLRD has organised its work around three spatial scales.. EU and all-island. sub-regional which includes cross-border,. and local. Through its activities the ICLRD is facilitabng forums to foster the exchange of experience and best practices. It is also supporting joint North-south cooperation in inler-regional, including cross-border, initiatives along the lines encouraged by the EU and ils structural fvnds. Principal actlvitles The ICLRD uses a variety of strategies to undertake ils work, including.. Engagin9 in action research with local governments. communities and central agencies that conlribules lo the practical understanding of the complex inter-jurisdict¢onal and cross-border dynamics and drivers of change., Undertaking case study research lo evaluate and develop good practice models., Publishing identified good practices and strategic policy advice., Hosting workshops and fora on key themes, as well as the development and delivery of training modules., Acting as a catalyst and facilitating community groups and local governments in the identification and roll-out of local development initiatives., and Providing sustained strategic cooperation, rather than 'one-off projects. among a¢ademic inslilulions. the private sector and public aulhorilies. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued) Year ended 31 July 2022 Achievements and performance The ICLRD partners worked on the following major projects in the period of this audit.. Applied Research Activities During this audit period, the vast majority of the Centre's work programme was dedicated to technical assistan￿ projects {as outlined below). In terms of research aclivilies, the ICLRD continued lo acb.vely promote the Centre's research findings at every available opportunity and source new funded programmes of activity. One such significant applied-research commission undertaken during this reporting period was as follows.. InPLACE.' The Changffng Spatlal Relationship between Home and Workplace In early January 2019, the ICLRD were contscled by a GP in Wicklow airing concerns around the impact of commuting on his patients. their families and the community al large. Following a number of follow- on conversations. a draft proposal was developed over 2019, and in early 2020 was further amended and revised to take account of the disruptions lo commuting patterns resulting trom COVID-19, and the potential longer-term impacts of this for commuting trends and office working. In February 2020. the ICLRD took the proposal lo the Office of the Planning Regulator for review and invited them to be a partner. In July 2020. the OPR confirmed that with furtheT amendments to the proposal they would become a partner to this proposed 24-monlh research programme and commit financial resources to the delivery of the programme. Through the National Planning Knowledge Group, contact was made with a number of other potential funders which in turn led to the Local Govemmenl Management Agency (LGMAI, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and Clare County Council agreeing to be funding partners. By end 2021, the Department for infrastructure Nl also came on board as a partner, supporting two case studies in Northern Ireland. With monies secured. Phase 1 of InPLACE launched in April 2021. Taking a case study approach, this initial phase will focus on three towns.. Ennistymon-Lahinch, Co. Clare {as a low commulinglcontrol lownl Newtownmountkenrtedy, Co. Wicklow Dundrum, Co. Down. This Phase was lo be rolled out over 12 rnonlhs (April 2021-March 20221.. and was lo include the selection of four further towns for investigation during Phase 2. However. due lo COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions on travel and numbers meeting, and also taking account of community wishes around when fieldwork lakes place, the roll-out of Phase 1 was delayed. As a result. Phase 1 did not conclude until September 2022. This led lo a delay in the start of Phase 2- and will likety lead lo a no-COSt delay to the conclusion of the projed. IAhile the Interim Report for Phase 1 was being developed over the Summer, the reseafch team worked closely with the LGMA lo identify case study areas for Phase 2. The study now includes a US dimension- with the University of Maryland securing funding from the Maryland Department of Transportation lo replicate the study in U.S. towns with less than 5,000 residents each and high levels of long dislance145+ minute} commuting. These were.. Middletown in Frederick County. and North Beach in Calvert County. The research team draws on ICLRD colleagues from Maynooth University, Ulster University. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (contlnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 University College Dublin, Mary Immaculate College, Limerick and University of Maryland. In terms of project governance. the work programme is overseen by.. Operational Partnership Group - involving the research team and funding agencies., Research Advisory Group- involving representatives from Translink. QUB, Grow Remote, Rural Residents Ne￿Ork]Rural Community Network, Vvexford Development Partnership and Western Development Commission. It is the objective of this research programme that il will provide ¥x)licy and practice recommendations to support the role of local government, amon9 Others. in place-shaping, place-making and promoting resilienl places in a post-COVlD world. The Advancement of Education.. Presenting Research Findings and Networking As opportunities arise, the ICLRD hosts its own events and encourages the ICLRD partners and affiliates to present al conferen￿$ and ¢onlribule lo articles. The ICLRD website also hosts a briefing paper series. The ICLRD sponsored Joumal - Borderlands.. The Journal for Spatial Planning in Ireland- offers an opportunity lo publish arti¢les on emerging topics in spatial planning and local and regional development that are relevant to cross-border cooperation. Conferences, Seminars & Workshops As we11 as organising and hosting conferences and seminars. the ICLRD was also invited lo make presentations at 8 number of national events in 2021 and 2022. These included- Keynote address by ICLRD Director at the CES Implementation Ne￿Ork of Ireland and Northern Ireland - based on NESC research report. Long-lerm Resilient and Sustainable Cities A Scoping Paper- on 111n November 2021. This webinar focusing on implementing resilient and sustainable places and the importance of adopting a p5ace-based approach. Presentation by ICLRD Director to the 'Talking Towns. seminar series hosted by the UCD Centre for Irish Towns- focused on The Border and Irish Towns- on 3td March 2022. conferen￿ session dedicated to the InPLACE projeel as part of the Conference for Irish Geographers ICIGI held in University of Limerick from 18-20 May 2022. Session took place on 20th May. with presentations from Dr. Karen Keaveney, Dr. Gavan Raffety and Prof. Des Mccaffety. Presentation to 'Rural Voices, webinar series on the InPLACE research programme. This was co-delivered by Ms. Caroline Creamer and Dr. Karen Keaveney on 25lh May 2022. Recording available at.. htt s-.II¥Nww. outube.comlwatch?v=VWBFrokoSw The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (contlnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 IGLRD Webinar Series 2022 As with 2021, and again in direct response to COVID-19. and on-going restrictions in gatherings, the annual conference was substiluled with a series of webinars which took place in Qlr.2 and Qtr.3 2022. The overall theme of the series was 'Posl-Pandemic Planning. and included five events. The series ran from May - November 2022., with each event lasting 75minutes. The programme was as follows.. Dat¢ Theme Wherc Land Meets Sea.. Planning Challenges and Opw)rtunities at the Coast LEAD 18111 May Dr. Comiac Walsh & Dr. Heather Ritchie (UU) Recording and copy of presentations &t'. s'.Iliclrd.or 0221051061where-land-meets-sea- lannin -challen es-and-o orthniti¢s-at-the-coasLI Thriving Places Post-Pand¢mic.' The Relationship between Spatial Planning, Health and Wellbeing 15 June Recording and copy of presentations at.. htt s://iclrd.or 20221081041thrivin laces- ost- andemic-the-relationshi etween-s atial- lannin health-and-wellbein Societal Resilience as a Strategi¢ Local Capability Ms. Caroline Creamer. MUIICLRD 21 Sept¢mb¢r Recording and copy of presentations at= s'.//iclrd .or 202210 1211societal-resilience-as- stratc ic-lo¢al-ca -how-do-we-build~itl Commuting, People and Place: Emerging Perspectives from the InPLACE Proje¢t Dr. Andrew Mcclelland, University of Manchester 19, October Prof. Gerrit Knaap, University of Maryland R¢cording and copy of pres¢nt&tions at-. htt s:Iliclrd.or 20221101191¢ommutin eo l¢-and- lace-emer in ers ¢¢tives-from-the-in lace- ro ¢ctl Commutin& People and Place.. Critical Reflections from Practice and Implications for Policy Dr. Bernie O'Donoghue- Hynes, Local Govemment Management Agency (InPLACE Partnership Board) 16 November Recording and copy of presentslions at.. s-./liclrd.or 20221111171commutin lace-criti¢al-reflections-frotn- ractice-and_ li¢ations-for- olic le-and- These events continue to Introdu￿ ICLRD to a new audience of academics, policy-makers and praclilioners. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report {Incorporating the Director's Report) (contlnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 Briefing Paper Series No papers were added to the ICLRD Briefing Paper Series during this financial year. Office of the Planning Regulator (OPRJ.. National Planning Knowledge Group Established in eady 2019, the offi￿ of the Planning Regulator IOPR) in Ireland convened a meeting of all planning schools across Higher Education on the island of Ireland on 12th May 2019. As a cross- border research centre with a strong profile in spatial planning mattels. the ICLRD were invited lo this meeting. In late 2019. the OPR established the National Planning Knowledge Group INPKGI. The ICLRD remains involved", with the Director attending meetings Iwilh substitution provided by Board members where required). During this financial year, three meetings of the NPKG took place {all on-line in response to COVID-19 and public health guidelines).. 6 October 2021.. 2 February 2022., and 4 May 2022. The Office of the Planning Regulator is a funder of the InPLACE project. An update on project activity was provided at each of these meetings. Department of Rural and CommunltyDevelopment- HigherEducation Instftutlons and Research Network In October 2021. the ICLRD Director was nominated by Maynoolh University lo sil on the newly established Higher Education Inslilulions and Research Network as part of the role-oul and policy support of the Irish Government's rural strategy, Our Rural Future. During this financial year, the Network mel on the following dates.. 6 October 2022 7 April 2022 5 October 2021 Engagement with Government Since its launch in October 2020, representatives of ICLRD have been engaging with the Shared Island Dialogue series. Events allended include.. 1 October 2022". The Future of Education on a Shared Island 20 January 2022.. Tourism on the Shared Island - Building on Past SLtccess to Create Sustainable Future 20 May 2022.. Enabling Rur81 and Community Development on a Shared Island. 10 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report {Incorporating the Director's Report) {continuedJ Year ended 31 July 2022 Ad-Hoc Group for North-south and East-west Co-operation In June 2020, ICLRD was invited lo join a 'loose' grouping of North-south l all-island bodies who have begun to meet regularly on Brexit and its implications for ongoing cooperation. The Group is being chaired by the Centre for Cross Border Studies ICCBSI. The over-arching objeclNe of the Ad-Hoc Group for North-south and Easl-west Cooperation is lo secure the continued means lo cooperate within and be￿een these islands. Through engagement with key Govemment Departments and Task forces. it aims to ensure that agreements, policies or legislation developed or enacted by relevant regionalldevolved and national governments andlor the European Union are conducive of the maintenance of the conditions necessary for cooperation - Northlsouth and Easvwest. An immediate priority for the Ad-Hoc Group has been to seek engagement with decision-makers involved in the implementation of the Protocol on IrelandlNorthern Ireland. As an ad-hoc group, members are free to engage whenmhere they feel il is relevant and take a back seat on other occasions. There are approx. 20 organisalions involved al present - from Rural Community Ne￿Ork, Northem Ireland's Womens Network, ICTU. Northern Ireland Environmental Link, Creative Spark. Irish Rural Link, and Co-operabon Ireland. Networks The ICLRD continues to expand its collaboration with other universities, research institutions and researchers from higher education bodies such as Mary Immaculate College-university of Limerick, University College Dublin. and University of Manchester. We also expanded our joint inilialives with other organisations involved in cross-border research and activities including Co-operation Ireland. The ICLRD also continues lo engage with the Europe-wide OLA {Observalory on Local Aulonomyl Network-, with both Ms. Caroline Creamer, Director, ICLRD land Maynooth University) and Dr. Brendan O'Keeffe, Senior Research Associate. ICLRD acting as joint Irish contact points. In November 2015, Ms. Creamer was appointed Irish Contact Point for the EU-Fursded ESPON 2020 Programme, and continues this role for the ESPON 2030 Programme. This programme relates quite closely to the work programme of the ICLRD., with a core aim of ESPON 2030 being lo promote and foster a European territorial dimension in regional and local development and cooperation by providing evidence, knowledge generalion and transfer and policy learning to public authorities and other policy actors al all levels. 11 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (¢onllnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 External Engagement Over this financial year. the ICLRD has been holding briefing sessions with a range of ageneiesl Govemment Departments to outline the work of ICLRD and its role in building policy-praxis divides across the island of Ireland. Engagements held include.. 17 May 2022 - Universile de Limoges on European Research Alliances 5 May 2022 - Shared Island Unil 8 November 2021- SEUPB on Smart Town5 and Villages theme of PEACE PLUS. The ICLRD was also invited to engage in a number of workshops on themes highly relevant lo spatial planning and regional development policy across the island of Ireland. These included. 23 June 2022.. Ulster University workshop on 'Transboundary Marine Spatial Planning, 7 March 2022.. Urt)an Foresight workshop {on behalf of SEUPBI om Smart Towns and Villages 4 March 2022.. ESPON Workshop on International Relations in EuroFe-with focus on the impact of Brexit on the Irish border region 14 January 2022.. ESPON-Soulhem Regional Assembly ESPON TOURISM on Demand Workshop in Inveragh Peninsula on Tourism Carrying Capacity 26 November 2021.. Maynoolh University-A9e Friendly Ireland- workshop on climate action and older adults. Peer to Peer Learning The ICLRD attends a number of conferences over the years based on relevant themes. contribub'ons to ICLRD's knowledge-base, and role in building the network. Conferen￿5 attended by representatives of the ICLRD over the current financial year included.. 26 June 2022.. Density v. Nature in Cities? No More False Choices 21-22 June 2022-. MOT lon-line} - Borders Forum 2022 31 March 2022.. Smart Growth - Effective Conservatism 29 March 2022.. ESPON Seminar lon-linel- From ESPON 2020 to ESPON 2030 23 February 2022.. Rural Voices Seminar with DRCD and NUI Galway {onlinel - Regional Vacancy and Dereliction Analysis in the Northern and Western Region 16 February 2022-. ESPON Seminar {on-line} - Challenges and Opportunities for Shrinking Areas 10 February 2022.. Nordic-lrish Partnership for Smart Cities {onlinel - Circular Economy.. How to do it Smart 1-2 December 2021.. ESPON Seminar lonlinel - Quality of Life for territorial and citizen-cenlric policies 16 November 2021.. ESRI & NIESR Initiative {onlinel - Launch of the All Island Economy Research Project 19 October 2021.. Nordic-lrish Partnership for Smart Cities lonlinel - Smart community care solutions for an aging population 7 October 2021.. Co-operation Ireland {onlinel All-lsland Local Authority Forum Climate Summit 24 September 2021.. Centre for Cross Border Studies Annual Conference lonlinel - Testing the health of conditions for post-Brexit cooperation.. The evolving political and social contexts. The ICLRD continues to explore opportunities to collaborate with other cross-borderlall-island ne￿OrkS. 12 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) {eontlnuedJ Year ended 31 July 2022 Intervlew Panels During this current financial year. the ICLRD Director was invited lo sil on the following intetview panel. Maynoolh University Interviewer for MUIBusiness Schoolllvl Post-Doctoral Position with focus on Pseudonymous Economy Interviews.. 25 and 28 Mar¢h 2022. Academic Review In November 2021, the ICLRD Director was invited lo be part of an extern81 three-member panel for the Validation and Review of the Bsc (Honsl in Spatial Planning & Environmental Management ITU8351 within the TU Dublin School of Transport Engineering Environment & Planning. The review look place in May 2022; with follow-up reporting in June 2022. External Consultations During the past twelve months. the ICLRD supported Ihe NWRDG (North West Regional Development Group) on making the following submission.. September 2021.. DAERA - Public Consultation on Rural Policy Framework for Northern Ireland. Technlcal Asslstance and Support North West Gateway Initiative Building on support services that have been in pla￿ since 2015, Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane Distriel Council - with Derry City and Slrab8ne District Council as the lead - awarded a six-month contract to the ICLRD. Covering the period July-Decembei 2021. this contract covered a package of strategic supports reflecting the evolving processes and structures now dominating the growth and development of the North Wesl, and the key role of the Councils within this. The contract largely focused on supporting the North West Strategic Growth Partnership {NWSGPI, and the wider community of stakeholders who are, over time. becoming key players in the co-design, support and delivery of the diversity of actions undei the three strategic growih pillars underpinning the North West City Region. Valued t £24.916 (excl. VATI, a particular emphasis was pla￿d on building capacity to promote regional priorities as detailed in the North West City Region IrelandlNorthern Ireland Statement of Regional Priorities (February 20211, the Green Transformation of the North West City Region of IrelandlNorth&rn Ireland Stslement of Intent (March 20211, and the emerging Issues Paper for the North Wesl City Region Spatial Strategy. associated strategic briefings. and lo support the Councils and other key NWSGP stakeholders in their implementation. The value of this contract 15 £24,916 (excl. VATI.This contract, valued al Slg£33,247 (excl. VATI cenlred on the ICLRD supporting the Councils in supporting the work programmes of the North West Strategic Growth Partnership (the llew structure established in 2016 cenlred on senior Government Department representatives working with the Councils to progress priority pr￿ra￿MeS for the North West}. Key elements of the work programme under this contract include (not exhaustive)". Provision of ongoing supports and facilitation to senior management incl. provision of continued capacity building for the regional development process, with a strong emphasis being placed on developing the City Region.. Convening and facilitsting the NW Planners Forum.. Continued advocacy for key infrastructural improvements across the North West City Region", On-going facilitation, advocacy and strategic liaison with key Governmental stakeholders relating lo the growth and development of the City Region through the NWSGP process., Identification of, and strategic advice and mentoring lo. project stakeholders lexlernal to Council) in relation lo the place-shaping agenda and the place-based leadership model.. Exploring opportunities for policy and project alignment with the principles of the EU Green Deal.. Convening and facilitation of a Green Transformation Working Group and building on existing 13 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report {Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued) Year ended 31 July 2022 green infraslruclure investments as the region positions itself as a living lab for green Iransformationlgrowlh.. Continued strategic support relating lo the securing of funds (including NWRDF) associated with the regional growih process., Convening and facilitation of a Climate Change Working Group- and Provision of capacity building and support in relation to progression of the regional climate adaptation and regional energy security strategies. In December 2021. the Councils, extended the contract with ICLRD by nine months (December 2021 August 20221. Under this programrne, the ICLRD will continue lo support Derry City and Slrabane District Council and Donegal County Council together wsth other nation21 and regional stakeholders - in advancing the new structures and processes for collaborative working around identified $hared key priority areas in the North West City Region INWCRI. Under this programme. key activities will include.. On-going engagement and support to the Green Transformation Workn'ng Group and the NW Planners Forum, with a particular emphasis on progressing their identified priorities,. Continued strategic support on the issue of Higher Education. research and innovation and the Cross-Border FE HE Cluster for the North Wesl City Region, noting the NDNA commitment to expansion of UU- Magee Campus, and the confirmation of Technological University status lor LYIT and inslilulional partners in the Wesl and North West of Ireland", Working in the context of overall support to the NWSGP and ils objectives. the identification of, and strategic advice and mentoring lo, regional stakeholders in relation lo connectivity of proposals and collaborative working approaches with Councils. Telalion5hip-building and development methodologies conslstenl with the place-shaping agenda and the place-based leadership model.. Exploring opportunities for policy and project alignmentwilh the principles of the EU Green Deal., building on the Green Transformation Statement of Intent as published by both Councils and existing g￿en infrastructure investments as the region positions itself as a living lab for green transformalionlgrowth,. and Continued strategic support relating to the securing of funds (including NWRDFI associated with the regional growth process.. considering also opportunities under the new EU Cohesion programmes ind. PEACE PLUS.. with funding calls expected in early 2022. In July 2022. the Councils invited ICLRD lo submit a further proposal of supports covering the period September 2022 to March 2023. 14 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report {Incorporating the Director's Report) (wrjlinu Year ended 31 July 2022 PALS Ireland Discussions continue in exploring options lo pilot a PALS Programme in Ireland. AILG- The 21st Century Councillor in Ireland As part of wider discussions being held with Maynoolh University. the ICLRD is part of a research funding proposal being co-designed with the Association of Irish Local Government IAILGI on the role of the councillor in the 21 st Century. This is part of a ￿0-year strategic alliance be￿een AILG and MU on the research, training and advocacy needs of the AILG members over the short lo medium term. Valued at é34,987 lexcl. VATI. this research considers a range of conlexlual issues that are reshaping local government, examines the roles that councillors are playing, or recognise that they will need lo be playing. within their oryanisations, and localities, and il explores a number of challenges, as follows, all of which are pertinent lo contemporary local government in Ireland. The research will contribute lo a better understanding of the training needs and capacity building supports required by Ireland's 949 elected officials. This project commenced in May 2021,. and is scheduled to conclude in Qlr. 1, 2023. During this financial year, an emphasis was placed on the international literature review. the design of the on-line survey {circulated lo all 949 eleGled members of local government) and commencement of one-to-one interviews. Southem RegionalAssembly- SmartRegion Definfftion and Framework to Facilitate Smart Cities Driving a Smart Region The ICLRD is part of a wider Maynooth University Team that has been commissioned by the Southern Regional Assembly in March 2021 to assist them in the development of a Smart Region Framework that capilalises on the smart city and smart townlvillage initiatives already underway. Valued al E21.576 excl. VAT, this programme Involves three work packages.. Work Package IWPI 1- Smart Region Consullalion Work Package IWPI 2 - Smart Regions Good Practice Research Work Package IWPI 3 - A Framework Report to Assist Stakeholder Initiatives in Pursuit of a Smart Region. The work programme concluded in July 2022, with the development of three reports: Report 1.. Towards a Smart Southern Region-. Smart Region Consultation Report 2.. Towards a Smart Southern Region.. Inlemalional Approaches to, and Good Practice in, the development of Smart Regions Report 3.. Towards a Smart Southern Region.. Smart Region Maturity Framework for the Southern Region It is expected that these reports will be forrnally launched in Qlr. 1, 2023 - as part of a wider initiative on the 'Smart Region, by the Southern Regional Assembly. 15 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continue Year ended 31 July 2022 Donogal County Council . Developing a Seoplng Paper for A North West Metropolitan Spatlal Strategy On behalf of both Councils in the NW. the ICLRD was commissioned by Donegal County Council in June 2021 to develop a North Wesl Metropolitan Spatial Strategy Scoping Paper. This builds on the recognition of the North Wesl City Region INWCRI in both the National Planning Framework120181 and ils interpretation in the Regional Spatial and Economic Slrategy12020}. This is seen as a precursor by both Councils to the development of a cross-border spatial strategy for the NWCR. The aim of this project is is lo scope out the strategic direction, objectives, projecl plan, slabjs, government arrangements. resources, assets and appropriate funding mechanisms required to carry out a Joint North West Metropolitan Growth Strategy. This Initial Scoping document will provide a framework for project actions to pave the way for the first Cross Border Spatial Strategy and provide a planning context for the higher value city region in the North West. A draft report was submitted to the Councils for consideration in December 2021,. with a final teport submitted in March 2022. This work programme was valued al É17,688 (excl. VATI. Financial review For the year ended 31 July 2022. income is £133.823 {2021.' £145,982) a decrease of £12,159 largely due to Commuting Study reducing. Expenditure for the year ended 31 July 2022 is £117,840 12021.. £75.3781 an increase of £42,462 largely due to research expenditure. 16 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (¢ontinued) Year ended 31 July 2022 Financial review {contlnuedJ Reserves Policy The charity's reserve policy is to retain a level of free reserves which matches the needs of the organisation both al the current b'rne and in the foreseeable future. The charity has minimal free reserves of £26,692 and the charity's reserves policy is reviewed annually. Ils reserves policy is that funds are lo be expended within 18monlhs, which the Executive Committee members Gonsider appropriate to the charity's circLJmstanees and the timing of funding and expenditure. The charity's free reserves are total funds. excluding restricted funds. The charity monitors ils income. expenditure and obligations on a quarterly basis and request5 sufFicient funds from its primary funders to cover its obligations. Activities are programmed lo rnatch expected funding levels on an annual basis. From 1 August 2020, the ICLRD moved ils accounting practices online, using Xero accounts SO￿are. Risk Man0gement The Executive Committee have assessed the major risks to which the charity is exposed, in particular those relating to the operations and finances of the charity, and are satisfied that systems are in place to mitigate any exposure to those risks. Annual Monitoring Return$ As of May 2020, the ICLRD is required to file Annual Monitoring Retums lo The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland. The ICLRD filed ils third relum in May reialin9 to the audit period 1 August 2020-31 July 2021. 17 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (conllnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 Plans for tuture periods Plans for Future Years The focus of activities for the next audit period IAugusl 2022 to July 2023} is on the sourcing of funds for the year in question as well as the period 2023-2025, nurturing new partnership arrangements with the National Centre for Smart Growth Research and Education (University of Marylandl, building on the success of the webinar series held in place of an annual conference during 2021 and 2022 in light of COVID-19 and ongoing public health restrictions as a staple of the ICLRD offering, and the continued support to the North Wesl City Region. with a key focus on facilitating the North West Strategic Growth Partnership INWSGPI and engaging with strategic regional and national stakeholders as appropriate in support of the three regional growth pillars. The Centre aims lo undertake a number of events on topical issues in order to keep ICLRD active in the policy-praxis space of spatial planning and local and regional development. The ICLRD management, including both the Executive Committee and reconstituted Advisory Board, will continue to review the Centre- in terms of ils structures, operations and funding model. The review will cover such issues as how the ICLRD canlwill respond to emerging trends, feed into policy across both jurisdictions, and strengthen the organisational structure. In funding lemis, the objective is lo diversify the Cenlre's sources of funding with particular attention to be paid lo supporting local government programmes and change management processes. This includes exploring opportunities under the EU Cohesion Programme 2021-2017 and Ireland-us funds. The impliealions of Brexit on the Cenlre's ability- or not- lo avail of opportunities under the ft)rmer will be kept under ¢onstant review by the Board. ICLRD Event Series 2023 The ICLRD will hold further events in 2023- focusing both on ICLRD research and topical policy issues. ￿￿hether these lake place in-person or online has not yet been decided. Initial discussions al Board level currently indicate a mixed approach being adopted. Networking Supporting the North West. Under the current contract with Deiry City and Strabane District Council, the ICLRD will be working with the councils and a number of key Central Government Departments in devising new operational structures for the North West under three key pillars of operation.. al Regional Economic Growth and Investment.. bl Regional Physical & Environmental Development." and cl Regional Social and Community Cohesion and Well-Being. Supports will continue lo be provided to the NW Planners Forum and ongoing collaborations with the NSMC in supporb'ng Ihemalie workshop discussions which in turn will feed into future work programmes. Ad-Hoc Group for North-south and Easl-west Co-operat￿n..The ICLRD will continue lo support the workings of the Ad-Hoc Group. engaging as relevant lo ICLRD'S core inleresls. Peace and Reconciliation Fostering Collaborative Action." The ICLRD will continue lo explore the Ilnkages between peace and reconciliation and local and regional development with a particular focus on identifying key stakeholders interested in looking at the contribution of local and regional development to the peace process. Publications Submissions are being sought for new briefing papers as part of the series. 18 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limitsd by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating tha Director's Report) (continued) Year ended 31 July 2022 Following completion of the InPLACE Phase 11Project Interim Report in September 2022, the research team are currently identifying further articles lo be published during the timeframe of this programme - including potential peer-reviewed journal articles. Mgdia The press release announcing the eommencemenl of the InPLACE study in April 2021 was picked up by a number of national and regional publications - and radio media. This included an interview on Lirnerick's Live 95FM with Prof. Des Mccaffety (Project Pl) on 2 September 2021. As the project progresses. and findings emerge, it is hoped that further media interest in this project can be secured. Maynooth UniTversity Business Plan and Ulster University Supports During the financial year 2017-2018. a proposal was developed by the ICLRD to place the Centre on a Business Plan within Maynoolh University. With the support of the then Maynooth University nominee on the Executive Board. Prof. Jim Walsh, a Business Plan was prepared for the next three years. In order to remove the uncertainty associated with funding based on small projects and lo safeguard continuity in implementation. Maynooth University was requested to undetwrile the Business Plan with a Commitment of 30k euro per annum for three years_ The Business Plan was approved in March 2018-, with agreement that it would be activated on 1 August 2018 to coincide with the ICLRD'S new financial year, Ulster University, as a core University Partner, agreed to contribute 50¥0 of the 30k pa required to underwrite the Business Plan. In return, the ICLRD Executive Board commit to securing external funding lo underpin a sustainable business model. The Business Plan concluded in July 2021. Maynoolh University, through it$ nominee on the Executive Board. Prof. Brtan Donnellan. sought and secured approval from the Maynooth University Executive for a second three-year Business Plan, operating from 1 August 202110 31 July 2024. Again, Ulster University as a core partner will contribute 500A of the 30k commitment per annum for the three-year timeframe of the renewed Business Plan. Responding to COVID-19 In May 2020, at the first ICLRD Executive Board meeting held since COVID-19 disrupted normal working practices in March, the Tnjstees deemed it necessary that the potential impacts of the global pandemic should be added to the Centre's Risk Register. This has been reviewed at every subsequent Board meeting. With ICLRD having no fixed assts. pensions assets or investments. the impact on the Centre's financial statements has been minimal. In order lo protect members of the ICLRD research community, the Trustees moved quickly to reflect the home-working policies of the core University partnets, and lo move all meetings lincl. Executive Board meetings), events and fieldwork on-line. Researchers were encouraged lo postpone foreign travel. As schools and childcare services entered phases of lockdown intemittently, the Trustees supported flexible working hours,. recognising that a number of the researchers needed lo balance work with childcare and home-schooling.The Chair scheduled bi-monthly meetings with the Director lo review projects. tender opportunities, charity financials, elc. and check-in on the welfare of the research community. These meeting5 are now a permanent feature of ICLRD'S govemance structures. 19 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Llmited by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) (continued) Year endad 31 July 2022 Plans for future periods {contlnu8d) Through the core University partners, training was provided to a number of the research community in use of online technologies and fieldwork tools. This includes Zoom and MS Teams. In addition, Maynooth University Social Sciences Institute IMUSSII committed lo providing logistical supports to ICLRD for all online events. This continued during the term of this audit period. A number of research projects needed to be reviewed in terms of fieldwork methodologies and timeframe for delivery. These reviews took place in consullalion with the relevant funders. and mutually beneficial arrangement put in pla￿. These were reviewed regularly throughout each work stream. The ICLRD is a small. niche research centre whose operating model has always been agile. adaptsble to changing circumstances and accommodating of clients changing needs. This operational model has assisted the ICLRD greatly in dealing with the disruptions- current and expected- resulting from COVID- 19. As restrictions have, and continue to, ease, the ICLRD is shilbng to a hybrid model of both in-person and on-line activities - particularly in relation to meetings and fieldwork. Fundlng The ICLRD continues to scope the potential for core funding from a range of agencies - ranging from central government departments. especially those involved in cross-border cooperation and the reform of public administration in Northern Ireland and Ireland, philanthropic bodies, and funding agencies. The ICLRD will also examine the opportunities lo develop proposals for the new round of EU funding programmes {2021-20271- PEACE PLUS, INTERREG, ESPON, elc.-and explorefunding opportunities among various Government Departments (Department of Foreign Affairs 'Reconcilialion Fund.. Shared Island Funds) and other foundations. Applications submitted over the past three months l or in train include.. Eumpean Parliament - Impact of Brexit In September 2022, the ICLRD Director was invited to develop a research paper on behalf of the REGI Committee focusing on 'The Impact of Brexit on the Development of Irish Regions and their Cross~Border Cooperation'_ This work programme is valued at 13,000 and is being offered lo the Director under a 'Conlract Offer, based on her previous research into cross-border cooperation and models of collaboration_ As the European Parliament will only enter into ¢onlracl with an EU Member Stale, this work, if contracted, will be led by Maynooth University. All Island Spatial Knowledge Hub.. Following the unsuccessful RePLAN application under the HEA North South Research Fund call Isubmilled in November 20211, the ICLRD together with AIRO have been meeting with a number of regional and national stakeholders on the possibility of pulling together a funding consortium lo support the development of the All Ireland Spatial Knowledge Hub - building on the emerging results from Census 21 INI) and Census 22 (Roll. A written proposal to share with interested parties in the hope of progressing the conversations and securing funding is currenuy being developed and will be shared before the end of 2022 with interested parties. In December 2022, the Department of An Taoiseach announced that a new call under the HEA North South Research Fund la Shared Island Unit Iniliativel will be issued in 2023. The ICLRD will pull together a working group to advance a proposal under this in Qtr 1, 2023. The ICLRD'S strong reputation in delivering its Exeeulive Training and Animation programmes offers opportunities to provide this training on a fee basis and with funding from various sources. 20 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limitsd by Guarantee Trustses. Annual Report (Incorporating the Director's Report) {GonlinuedJ Year ended 31 July 2022 Trustees. responsibllltles statement The trustees, who are also directors for the purposes of company law. are responsible for preparing the trustees, report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practs'cel. Company law requires the charity trustees to prepare financial statements for each year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and the incoming resources and application of resources. including the income and expenditure, for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required lo.. select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consislenlly.. observe the methods and principles in the applicable Charities SORP-, make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent.. stale whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have been followed. subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements., prepare the financial statements on the going con¢ern ba$1$ unless il is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in busine5S. The trustees are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are Suff￿lent to show and explain the charity's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy al any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irTegularilies. Auditor Each of the persons who is 2 trLtstee at the date of approval of this report confirms that.. so far as they a￿ awa￿, there is no relevant audit infomiation of which the charity's auditor Is unaware.. and they have taken all steps that they ought to have taken as a trLtstee to make themselves aware of any relevant audit infomiation and to establish that the charity's auditor is aware of that infomation. The trustees, annual report and the strategic report were approved on 4 April 2023 and signed on behalf of the board of trustees by.. Prof L Maguire Trustee 21 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Year ended 31 July 2022 Opinion We have audited the finanaal statements of The International Centre for Local and Regional Development (the 'charity'l for the year ended 31 July 2022 which comprise the statement of financial activities {including income and expenditure account), statement of financial position and the related note5, including a summary of significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). In our opinion the financlal statements.. glve a true and fair view of the state of the charity's affairs as at 31 July 2022 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, including its income and expenditure, for the year then ended; have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Pradice; have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audf( in accordance with International S12ndards on Auditing IUKI IISAS IUKI) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the audltovs responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, induding the FRC'S Eth￿1 Standard, and we have fijlfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidents we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. Concluslons relating to going concem In auditing the financial statements, we have con¢luded that the trustees, use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparat￿Tr of the financial $lalemenls is appropriate. Based on the work we have performed. we have not Klenlified any rnaterial uncertainties felaling to events or conditions that. individually or collectively. may cast significant doubl on the charity's ability to Continue as a going concern for a period of at least ￿e1ve months from when the financial slaternents are aulhorised for issue. Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the Iruslees with respect to going concem are described in the relevant sections of this report. 22 The Internatlonal Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The International Centre for Local and Regional Development{conllnuod) Year ended 31 July 2022 other Information The other information comprises the inforrnalion included in the annual report. other than the financial statements and our auditorfs report thereon. The Iruslees are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and. except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report. we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connectson with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsislenl with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misslatemenls. we are required lo determine whether there is a material misslatemenl in the finanual statements or a material misstalemenl of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other informal￿n. we are required to ￿port that fact. We have nothing lo report in this regard. Opinions on other matters prescribed by the Cornpanies Act 2006 In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit.. the inft)fmation given in the trustees, report for the financial year for which the financtal statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements,. and the trustees, report has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements. Matters on which we are requlred to report by gxcgplion In the light ofthe knowledge and understanding of the ¢harity and ils environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the trustees, report. We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 require5 US to report to you if, in our opinion-. adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us.. or the financial statements are not ir¢ agreement with the accounting records and retums., or certain disclosures of trustees, remuneration specrfied by law are not made,. or we have not r￿1Ved all the infomiation and explanations we require for our audit. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantse Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The Intsrnational Centre for Local and Regional Development (continued) Year ended 31 July 2022 Responsibilitigs of trustees As explained more fully in the trustees, responsibilities statement, the trustees {who are also the directors forthe purposes of company lawl are responsible for the preparation of the financial slalemenls and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. and for such internal control as the trustees detemiine is necessary lo enable the preparation of financial statements that are free trom material misstatement, whether due lo fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the tnjstees are responsible for assessing the charty's ability to continue as a going coll￿[￿, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend lo liquidate the charity or to cease operations. or have no realistic atternative bul to do so. The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The Internatlonal Centre for Local and Regional Development I¢(￿1￿￿￿e￿} Year ended 31 July 2022 Auditorfs responsibilitieg for the audlt of the flnanclal statements Our objective5 are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due lo fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAS {UK} will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstaternenls can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities. including fraud. The extent lo which our procedures are capable of deleeting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below.. In identifying and assessing risks of material misstalemenl in respect of irregularities. including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we considered the following.. the nature of the industry and sedor, control environment and business performance induding the design of the remuneration policies, key drivers for directors, remuneration, bonus levels and performance targets., results of our enquiries of management about their own identification and assessment of the risks of irregularities-, any matters we identified having obtained and reviewed documentation of their policies and procedures relating to". identifying, evaluating and complying with laws and regulations and whether management were aware of any instances of non-compliance., detecting and responding lo the risks of fraud and whether management have knowledge of any actual. suspected or alleged fraud- the internal controls established to mitigate nsks of fraud or non-complian¢e with laws and regulations. the matters discussed among the audit engagement team including signlficanl component audit teams and relevant internal specialists. including lax and valuations specialists regarding how and where fraud might occur in the financial statements and any potential indicators of fraud. As a result of these procedures, we considered the opportunities and in￿ntiveS that may exist within the organisation for fraud and identified the greatest potential for fraud. In common with all audits under ISAS {UKI, we are also required to perform specific procedures to respond lo the risk of management override. We also obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks in operation, ft)cusing on provisions of those laws and regulations that had a direct effecton the determination of material amounts and disclosures in the financial slalemenls. The key laws and regulations we considered in this context included ongoing complianee with the UK Companies Act and tax legislation. In addition, we considered provisions of other laws and regulations that do not have a direct effect on the financial statements but compliance with which may be fundamentsl for their ability lo operate or to avoid a material penalty- 25 The International Centre for Local and Reglonal Development Company Limited by Guarantee Independent Auditorfs Report to the Members of The Intsrnational Centre for Local and Regional Development (continued) Year ended 31 July 2022 As part of an audit in accordance with ISAS (UK), we exercise professional judgment and maintaln professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also.. Identify and assess the risks of malenal misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. design and perform audit prO￿dureS responsive to those risks, and obtain audit eviden￿ that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error. as fraud may involve collusion, forgery. intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Obtain an understanding of internal control relevantto the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the internal control. Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounts'ng estimates and related disclosures made by the trustees. Conclude on the appropriateness of the trustees, use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit eviden￿ obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the charity's abilty to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor's report to the ielated disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate. to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor's rewrt. However, future events or conditions may cause the charity to cease to conts'nue as a going concern. Evaluate the overall presentation, Structure and content of the financial stalemenls, including the disclosures. and whelherthe financial ststements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. 26 The International Centre for Local and Reglonal Development Company Limited by Guarantee Independent Auditor's Report to the Members of The International Centre for Local and Regional Development (eonllnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, induding any ssgnificanl deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. Use of our report This report ig made solely lo the charity's members, as a body, in accordan￿ with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might slate to the charity's members those matters we are required to state to them in an audilovs report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not a¢cept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity's members as a body. for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have fomied. Conor Dolan FCA (Senior Slatulory Auditor) For and on behalf of Finegan Gibson Ltd Chartered accountants & slatulory auditor Causeway Tower 9 James Street South Belfast BT2 8DN 4 April 2023 27 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee ststement of Financial Activities (including income and expenditure account) Year ended 31 July 2022 2022 Reslricled funds Total funds Total funds 2021 Unrestricted funds Note Incorne and endowment5 Charitable activities 133,823 133.823 133,823 145,982 145,982 Total Income 133,823 Expenditure Expenditure on charitable activities Total expenditure 8,817 8,817 109,023 109,023 117,840 117,840 75.378 75,378 Net income 8.817 24,800 15,983 70,604 Transfers be￿een funds 22,162 122,1621 Net movement In funds 13.345 2.638 15,983 70,604 Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward Total funds carried forniard 13,347 119,255 121,893 132,602 148,585 61,998 132,602 26.692 The statement of finanaal activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities. The notes on pages 30 to 37 fom) part of thosa flnancial ststements. 28 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Statement of Flnanclal Posltlon 31 July 2022 2022 2021 Current assets Debtors Cash al bank and in hand 13 38.162 172,566 32.109 133.271 210,728 165.380 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year Net Cufrent assets 14 62.143 32,778 148.585 132,602 Total assets less current liabllitles 148,585 132,802 Nel assgt$ 148.585 132,602 Funds of the charity Restricted funds Unreslricled funds 121,893 26,692 119,255 13,347 Total charity funds 15 148.585 132.602 These financi81 stslements were approved by the board of tntslees and aulhorised for issue on 4 April 2023. and are signed on behalf of the board by.- Prof L Maguire Trustee The notes on poge8 30 to 37 form part of the58 financlal statèmènts. 29 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notes to the Financial Statements Year ended 31 July 2022 General information The charity is a public benefit entity and a private company limited by guarantee, registered in Northern Ireland and a registered charity in Northern Ireland. The address of the registered office is Belfast School of Architecture & Built Enviionmenl. Ulster University. Jordanslown Campus. Newtownabbey, BT37 OQB, Antrim. Statement of cornpliance These financial statements have been prepared in compliance with FRS 102. 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland,, the Slalement of Recommended Practice applicable lo charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland {FRS 1021 (Charities SORP {FRS 1021} and the Companies Act 2006. Accounting pollcles Basls of preparation The fir¢ancial slalements have been prepared on the historical cost basis. as modified by the revaluation of certain financial assets and liabilities and investment properties measured at fair value through income or expenditure. The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the entity- Golng concem There are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue. Judgements and key sou￿¢$ of estimatlon uncertalnty The preparation of the financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported. These estimates and judgements are continually reviewed and are based on experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed lo be reasonable under the circumStan￿s. Foreign currencies Foreign currency transactions are initially recorded in the functional currency, by applying the spot exchange rale as al the date of the transacb'on. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated al the exchange rate ruling at the reporting dale, with any gains or losses being taken to the statement of financial activities. 30 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notes to the Financial Statem8nts (contlnue Year ended 31 July 2022 Accounting policies fcontlnued) Fund aecountlng Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees to fvrther any of the charity's purposes. Designated funds are unrestricted funds earmarked by the trustees for partieular future project or commitment. Restricted funds are subjected lo restrictions on their expenditure declared by the donor or through the terms of an appeal, and fall into one of two sub-classes.. restricled income funds or endoW￿￿nt funds. Incoming resources All incoming resources are included in the statement of financial activities when entillemenl has passed to the charity-, it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow lo the charity and the amount can be reliably measured. The following specific policies are applied to particular categortes of income- income from donations or grants is recognised when there is evidence of enlillemenl to the gift, receipt is probable and its amount can be measured reliably. legacy income is ￿Cognised when receipt is probable and entitlement is established. income from donated goods is measured al the fair value of the goods unless this is impractical to measure reliably. in which case the value is derived from the cost to the donor or the estimated resale value. Donated facilities and setvices are recognised in the accounts when received if the value can be reliably measured. No amounts are included for the ontribulion of general volunteeis. income from contracts for the supply of services is recognised with the delivery of the contracted service. This is classified as unrestricted funds unless there is a contractual requirement for il lo be spent on a particular purpose and returned if unspent. in which case il may be regarded as restricted. 31 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 July 2022 Accounting policies {¢onllnued) Resourcès expended Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred. Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered. and is classified under headings of the statement offin2ncial activities to which it relates.. expenditure on raising funds includes the costs of all fundraising actNities. events. non- charitable trading activities, and the sale of donated goods. expenditure on charitable activities includes all costs incurred by a charity in undertaking activities that further its charitable aims for the benefit of ils beneficiaries. including those support costs and costs relating to the governance of the charity apportioned to charitable activities. other expenditure includes all expenditure that is neither related to raising funds for the Charity nor part of ils expenditure on charitable activities. All costs are allocated to expenditure categories reflecting the use of the resource. Direct costs attributable to a single activity are allocated directly to that activity. Shared costs are apportioned belween the activities they contribute to on a reasonable, justifiable and consistent basis. Financial instruments A financial asset or a financi31 liability is recognised only when the charty becomes a paty to the contra¢lual provisions of the instrument. Basic financial instruments are initially recognised at the amount receivable or payable including any related transaction costs. Current assets and current liabilities are subsequently measured at the cash or other consideration expected to be paid or received and not discounted. Debt instruments are subsequently measured at amortised cost. Where investments in shares are publicly traded or their fair value can othetwise be measured reliably. the investment is subsequently measured al fair value with changes in fair value recognised in income and expenditure. All other such investments are subsequently measured at cost less impairment. other financial instruments. including derivatives, are initially recognised al fair value. unless payment for an asset is deferred beyond normal business terms or financed at a rate of interest that is not a market rate. in which case the asset is measured al the present value of the future payments discounted al a market rale of interest for a similar debt instrument. Other financial instruments are subsequently measured at fair value, with any changes reeognised in the statement of financial acliv"rties, with the exception of hedging instruments in a designated hedging relatsonship. 32 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notes to the Financial Ststements (conllnuedj Year ended 31 July 2022 Accounting policles (continued) Financial instruments (¢ontsnuedJ Financial assets that are measured at cost or amortised cost are reviewed for objective evidence of impairrnent at the end of each reporting date. If there is objective evidence of impairment. an impairment loss is recognised under the appropriate heading in the statement of financial activities in which the initial gain was recognised. For all equity instruments regardless of significance, and other financial assets that are individually significant, these are assessed individLJally for impairment. Other financial assets are either a55essed individually or grouped on the basis of similar credit risk characlerislic5. Any reversals of impairment are recognised immediately, lo the extent that the reversal does not result in a carrying amount of the financial asset that exceeds what the carrying amount would have been had the impaiimenl not previously been reco9nised. Limlted by guarantee The International Centre ft)r Local and Regional Development is a company limited by guarantee and does not have a share capital. The liability of each member is limited to an amount not exceeding £1. Charitable activities Restricted Total Funds Funds 2022 Restricted Total Funds Funds 2021 Donegal Council Irish Central Border Area Ne￿Ork Derry City and Slrabane Council University of Ulster Commuting Study 14.583 14,583 3.911 42.263 12,755 87,053 145,982 3.911 42,263 12,755 87,053 49,894 12,640 56,706 133,823 49,894 12.640 56.706 133.823 145,982 33 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notes to the Financial Statements Iconllnuedj Year ended 31 July 2022 Expendituro on charitable activities by fund type Unrestricted Funds Restricted Total Funds Funds 2022 Charitable Activity Support costs 2,709 6,108 97,513 11,510 109,023 100,222 17,618 117,840 8,817 Unrestricted Funds Restricted Total Funds Funds 2021 Charilable Activity Support costs 27.461 175 30,578 17.164 58,039 17,339 27,636 47.742 75,378 Expenditure on eharltable activitigs by activity typg Activities undertaken directly Support Total funds costs 2022 Total fund 2021 Charitable Activity Governance costs 100.222 100,222 17,618 58,039 17.339 17,618 17.618 100.222 117.840 75.378 Analysis of support costs Anatysis of support costs Total 2022 Total 2021 Audit Fees Accountancy Fees Professional Fees 3,990 615 13,013 17,618 3.990 615 13,013 17,618 3,833 480 13.026 17.339 Net income Net income is slated after chargingl{crediling}- 2022 2021 Foreign exchange differences 1,184 1,570 10. Auditors remuneration 2022 2021 Fees payable for the audit of the financial statements 3.990 3,833 34 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notes to the Financial Statements Icontlnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 11. Staff costs The average head count of employees during the year was Nil {2021'. Nill. No employee received employee benefits of more than £60.000 during the year12021: Nill. 12. Trustee r9muneration and expenses The organisations trustees did not receive remuneration in the year however they were reimbursed travel expenses and research project related expenses in year lotalling £NIL12021'. £427). 13. Debtors 2022 2021 Trade debtors Prepayments and accrued income Other debtors 3.739 19.628 14.795 19,686 333 12,090 32,109 38.162 14. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2022 2021 Accruals and deferred income Social security and other taxes Other creditors 29.553 8,671 23,919 62,143 19,819 12,553 406 32,778 35 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notes to the Financial Statements (r¢)nllnued) Year ended 31 July 2022 15. Analysis of charEtable funds Unrestrlcted funds At 1 August 2021 At Transfers 31 July 2022 Income Expenditure General funds 13,347 {8,817) 22,162 26,692 At 1 August 2020 At Transfers 31 July 2021 Income Expenditure General funds 40,983 {27.6361 13.347 Restricted funds At l August 2021 At Transfers 31 July 2022 Income Expenditure NW Project ICBAN Donegal Council Ulster University Community Study 27,067 49,894 131,9421 115,6181 18841 15,6601 29,401 14,583 12,640 56,706 133,823 18,9231 112,6401 155,5181 {109,0231 12,772 78,532 12.772 79.720 121.893 119.255 (22,1621 At 1 August 2020 At Transfers 31 July 2021 Income Expenditure NW Project IC8AN Donegal Council Ulster University Community Study 42.263 3,911 115.1961 {3,8731 120,1521 27,067 884 846 20,152 17 12,755 87,053 145,982 12,772 78.532 119,255 18,5211 147,7421 21,015 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notss to the Financial Statements fcontinuedj Year ended 31 July 2022 16. Analysis of net assets between funds Unrestricted Funds Restricted Total Funds Funds 2022 Current assets Creditors less than 1 year Net assets 26.692 184,036 {62,143) 121.893 210,728 162,1431 148,585 26.692 Unreslricled Funds Restricted Total Funds Funds 2021 Current assets Creditors less than 1 year Net assets 13,347 152,033 132.778} 119,255 165,380 132.778) 132,602 13,347 17. Related Partles During the year related paty transactions lotalling £19.248 were paid lo a current trustees, research institutes - Maynooth University, University of Maryland and U15tei University. Although the organisalions noted were part of a research project with ICLRD, the Iruslee did not do any ol the work and the monies were paid to the research organisalion and not to the trustee. 37 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Llmlted by Guarantee Management Information Year ended 31 July 2022 The follo1￿￿9 pag95 do not fomi part of the flnancial statsments. 38 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Detailed Statement of Financial Activities Year ended 31 July 2022 2022 2021 Income and endowments Charitable activltie$ Donegal Council Irish Central Border Area Network Dery City and Strabane Council Univ8rsty of Ulster Commuting Study 14,583 3,911 42.263 12,755 87.053 49.894 12,640 56,706 133,823 145,982 Total Incomg 133,823 145,982 39 The International Centre for Local and Regional Development Company Limited by Guarantee Notes to the Detailed Statement of Financial Activities Yoar anded 31 July 2022 2022 2021 Expendlture on charllable actlvltles A¢¢ivities undertaken directly Insurance Travel Other office costs Bank charges Fo￿l9n exchange gainrfoss Research Project Exp8nses Sundry Expenses Website Expenditure SubscTlPtion5 Conference Costs 11.5161 13.6951 14261 12091 {1.1841 190.3161 11,0221 {2021 13241 11.3281 1100.2221 11.0001 19311 15371 12291 11.5701 145,3881 13,2291 15.1551 158,0391 Governance costs Govem8nc& costs- account8ncy f8è9 Govem3nce costs- audit f8eS Govemanee costs- legal and other professional fees 16151 13.9901 113,0131 117,6181 14801 13,8331 113,0261 117,3391 Expenditure on charitsble •clivitie¥ 1117.840) 175.3781 Total expenditure 1117.8401 175.378) Net incorne 15,983 70,604