The Concept of Town Twinning

 

Town twinning is a concept whereby towns in geographically and politically different areas are paired with the goal of fostering human contact and cultural links. The idea was first mooted in Europe after World War II. Twinning provides an opportunity to find out more about the daily lives of citizens in other European countries, to exchange experiences and to develop joint projects on issues of common concern.

 

The Local Government Act 2001 permits any local authority, including Town Councils, to enter into arrangements for the twinning of its administrative area. There is a proviso, however, that the twinning arrangement must bring general, social and cultural benefits to the area and its community and that financially, the cost is not excessive.

 

Passage West/Monkstown is twinned with Chasseneuil du Poitou, France. The twinning charter was signed by the Mayor, Mr. Jim Murphy, of the then Passage West Town Commissioners and the then Mayor of Chasseneuil du Poitou, Mr. Pierre Giret, at the Town Hall in Passage West in 1997. Annual exchange visits for both members of the Town Council and local residents are organised. Generally, the duration of an exchange visit is three days and accommodation is provided in local host family homes. A programme of entertainment guarantees a superb weekend for all who travel.

 

Should anyone be interested in taking part in the annual visit to Chasseneuil du Poitou or in organising any kind of cultural, commercial, educational or other exchange, please contact Passage West Town Council.

Download the Twinning Charter .jpeg format (77.1 KB) or .pdf format (82 KB)

 

Passage West 1996 trip to Chasseneuil du Poitou

 

Passage West 2006 trip to Chasseneuil du Poitou