SOLGM launches a new member benefit!

Local Government Exchange Programme in Japan

SOLGM, in association with The Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR) is pleased to offer one lucky SOLGM full Member a cultural exchange programme in Japan to participate in the Local Government Exchange and Cooperation Seminar Programme on 16-26 November 2009 along with other local government officers from others countries.

SOLGM will award a NZ $2000 (plus GST) travel grant to the recipient. The money will go towards the travel to and from Japan.

CLAIR will cover expenses incurred during the seminar period (transportation within Japan, accommodation, meals and overseas travel insurance) and the seminar registration and materials. Participant will be responsible for his/her personal expenses (phone calls, expenses during free time, mini-bar).

About the Seminar Programme

The seminar will include the following activities:

• Tour of government facilities in Tokyo
• Introduction to the Japanese Local Government System, presentation of CLAIR activities and meeting of the Chairman of Clair
• Travel to Japanese Host Local Government at Shimane Prefecture
• Exchange events in local authorities which includes site tours, inspection, workshops and meetings at Shimane Prefecture

The theme for the 2009 Exchange Events at Shimane Prefecture is 'Regional Development Utilising Local Natural Resources'. Local government in Shimane have implemented major projects for regional development by utilising a wide variety of regional characteristics such as climate, natural resources, seniors actively involved in regional activities and some unique community organisations.

The seminar will focus on the following policies and practices:

1. Green Tourism

• Implementing activities at the community level which lead to regional vitalisation and active involvement of seniors
• Preventing a population drain by encouraging young people to live in their community and implementing migration incentive policies

2. Local Production for Local Consumption and Dietary Education

• Developing connection between consumers and farmers
• Encouraging the use of local food in school lunches
• Handing down of local food traditions

3. Signature Agricultural Product Promotion

• Promoting the Shimane brand
• Exploring new business opportunities outside Shimane

How to apply

The CLAIR Local Government Exchange Programme is open to all SOLGM Full Members. Please submit your application in letter format including a narrative of no more than 150 words to explain your objectives for participating in the programme.

Please forward all applications to

David Smith
Chief Executive
SOLGM
Email: dsmith@solgm.org.nz
Post: PO box 5538 Wellington

Applications close Friday 14 August

Read Gary Allis’ account of his experience at the 2008 Seminar in the March 2009 edition of Pulse