Volume 12 - Issue 4 - Carlow Public Participation Network Members E-Bulletin, April 2026
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Community & Voluntary ~ Social Inclusion ~ Environment
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Welcome to Carlow PPN’s April eBulletin!
As we celebrate the Easter season, we are delighted to share this month’s updates and events. On April 23rd, we will host our Networking Event, featuring a visit from Minister Buttimer, who will officially launch the new Disability Persons Organisation (DPO) in Carlow. Jerry Buttimer is the Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, as well as at the Department of Transport
This year’s theme is Social Inclusion - hear from our panel of speakers and join the celebration of the DPO launch. Book your attendance today and be part of the conversation!
Book here
The eBulletin is designed to keep you informed of relevant news, events, and opportunities at both local and national levels. It also provides an excellent platform to highlight and promote your group’s activities.
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We encourage you to get involved and share your updates. For any queries, please contact Fiona at fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie
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Membership & Governance:
In April, Carlow PPN will continue to meet with new and prospective member groups, both in person and online. These meetings gives us a chance to hear first-hand about the work happening across the county and to better understand the needs and priorities of each group.
We also shared information on how the PPN can assist, including access to supports, training, funding updates, and opportunities to have a voice in local decision-making.
These ongoing connections play an important role in strengthening collaboration and keeping the community network in Carlow active and engaged. Monthly meetings will continue on the last Wednesday of each month.
Next New Member meet up - April 29th 2026.
If you and your group would like to schedule a meeting, please email Fiona at fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie
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Communications
E-bulletins sent: 527
Special notices sent: 112
Facebook: 29 posts/ Instagram: 23 posts/ X has been deactivated
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Engagement
- Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT)
Carlow PPN recently attended a Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT) meeting, engaging with the team on initiatives to support diverse communities. The session provided an opportunity to share information, discuss local needs, and explore ways the PPN can support integration and inclusion across County Carlow.
Carlow PPN recently attended a Comhairle na nÓg meeting, engaging with young people to hear their ideas and priorities for the community. The session provided an opportunity to share information about how the PPN supports youth voices in local decision-making and community initiatives.
- The SEEA Home Energy Expo
Rising energy costs remained a key concern, with many homeowners exploring more efficient ways to heat and power their homes. The South East Energy Agency - South East Energy Agency (SEEA) Carlow Home Energy Expo provided clear, independent advice on supports such as the Windows & Doors Grant, Warmer Homes Scheme, retrofits, and green loans.
Held at the Seven Oaks Hotel, the event featured energy experts, guidance on solar PV, insulation and heating upgrades, and opportunities to connect with installers and suppliers. With our very own Trish Duffe presenting about her feature on The Great House Revival with the late Hugh Wallace. Trish showcased how modern heating solutions like air-to-water systems can make older homes more sustainable.
Representation
- Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs)
During April, we will engage with our representatives for the Planning, Economic Development, Regeneration, Finance, and ICT SPC meeting on 21st April. The Carlow Tourism meeting will take place on 22nd April, followed by the Heritage Forum on 23rd April.
- Carlow Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP)
On Thursday, 5th March, the Carlow Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP) hosted a Community Safety Day to launch consultations for the new Carlow Community Safety Strategy. The community had the opportunity to meet the LCSP Committee, bringing together community organisations, emergency services and local representatives, to discuss and collaborate, in an effort to strengthen community safety across the county.
The event also showcased the important role of Carlow PPN, whose three representatives sit on the LCSP, in promoting community safety, information sharing and active engagement with local groups.
Press Release
Carlow Local Community Safety Partnership Public Consultation on Community Safety 2026
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Carlow PPN Expo & Networking Event - April 23rd 2026
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Don’t miss the Carlow PPN Community Expo & Networking Event!
When: Thursday, 23rd April 2026, 4:00pm
Where: Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow
This year, we’re focusing on Social Inclusion! Join us to hear from an inspiring panel of speakers and celebrate the official launch of the Carlow Disability Persons Organisation (DPO).
Secure your spot today and be part of the conversation shaping our community!
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Join Carlow PPN Community!
Connect with local groups working to make a difference in 2026.
Explore hundreds of member groups in Carlow through the Members Directory on www.carlowppn.ie.
Members enjoy free training, updates on local events, funding opportunities,
and a voice in shaping County Council policy.
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Showcasing Community Groups
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(Community & Voluntary Group)
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Bethany House Carlow is a community-based residential and support service that provides care and accommodation for individuals in need, particularly those experiencing homelessness or facing social and personal challenges. It offers a safe, supportive environment focused on promoting stability, wellbeing, and pathways to independent living, often working alongside local services to support residents’ long-term development.
Website: Bethany House Day Care - Alzheimer
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The County Carlow Environmental Network (CCEN) is a local umbrella group that brings together community organisations, volunteers, and individuals across County Carlow who are committed to protecting and enhancing the environment. It supports collaboration on projects such as biodiversity, climate action, waste reduction, and environmental awareness, while also representing local environmental interests and promoting sustainable practices within the county.
Website: Welcome to County Carlow Environmental Network | CCEN.ie
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Carlow Involvement Centre
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The Involvement Centre Carlow is a community-based organisation that supports individuals experiencing mental health challenges by providing a welcoming, non-clinical space for social connection, personal development, and wellbeing activities. It offers a range of programmes, including group workshops, peer support, and skill-building opportunities, helping people to build confidence, reduce isolation, and engage more fully in community life.
Facebook: Carlow Involvement Centre Facebook
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Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) in Local Government
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Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) play a key role in local government, advising councils on policy development across various sectors. Comprising councillors, sectoral representatives, and community agencies, they help formulate, review, and monitor policies under the Local Government Act 2001. For up-to-date information on SPC meetings, agendas, and participation opportunities, visit the Carlow County Council website.
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Empowering and Networking for PPN Representatives
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Dates of Strategic Policy Committees (SPC) & other committee meetings April 2026:
If you would like to bring any issues or concerns to our PPN Representatives, that sit on these committees, please email carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie
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EOI for a Representative for the Board of Local Link Carlow/Kilkenny/Waterford (CKW)
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Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow (CKW) are seeking interest from a PPN member group to sit on the board of Local Link CKW.
Local Link CKW is a community organisation that manages all Rural Transport services in the three counties and works very closely with the National Transport Authority.
The board meets about five times per year for about 1.5 hours in their office in Cillín Hill, Kilkenny, and they provide online Teams for members unable to attend in person.
Contact Jackie Mealy for information jackie.meally@locallink.ie
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Follow us on our socials - for current, relevant local & national news @carlowppn
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Please avail of the opportunity to advertise in our monthly eBulletin.
Email/call Fiona on 087 276 0139/059 9136288
fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie
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Beyond Sustainability Workshops for Enterprises
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regening, a Kerry-rooted eco-social enterprise, is running a series of online Beyond Sustainability Workshops for Enterprises. The workshops will explore bigger questions sustainability often avoids by introducing more regenerative ways of seeing the world and exploring practical options that go beyond sustainability.
The next workshop is at 9:30am, Thursday 16th April, 2026.
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Registrations for National Spring Clean 2026 are now open!
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National Spring Clean is Ireland’s most popular, well recognized and successful anti-litter initiative. Taking place during the whole month of April and now in its 25th year, the campaign encourages every sector of society to actively participate and take responsibility for litter, by actually conducting clean ups in their own local environment. National Spring Clean traditionally takes place throughout the month of April.
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New Radon Monitor Loan Scheme
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Carlow County Council Library Service is proud to announce the launch of a new Radon Monitor Loan Scheme, enabling members of the public to borrow digital radon monitors to check radon levels in their homes. It is a Healthy Ireland at Your Library initiative, supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to raise awareness of radon and promote proactive health measures.
For any queries, call to Carlow County Council Library branch where you can pick up a leaflet or visit the E.P.A.
Website at www.epa.ie
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Invasive Species Week 2026 raises awareness of the impact invasive plants and animals have on biodiversity, highlighting the importance of protecting native habitats and encouraging communities to learn, report sightings, and take action to help prevent their spread..
If you’re planning an event, email invasives@biodiversityireland.ie with “IAS Week” in the subject line to be featured.
Join in to help protect our environment and recreational spaces for future generations.
Further details
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Sustainable Development Goals Update
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Carlow Arts Office E‑Bulletin | March 2026 – First Edition
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The Carlow County Council Arts Office is pleased to present the first edition of its e‑bulletin, providing updates on the latest news and developments from the service.
Readers are invited to stay in touch via artsservice@carlowcoco.ie
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Empowered Community Safety Day
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A fantastic turnout was seen at the highly successful Empowered: Community Safety Day, which took place at Borris House, County Carlow, on March 5th. This event brought together community organisations, emergency services, educators, local representatives and residents to discuss and strengthen community safety across the county.
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Carlow Launches Reusable Party Pack Pilot for Waste-Free Celebrations
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Carlow County Council has launched a six-month pilot of Reusable Party Packs to help communities reduce single-use plastics. Each pack serves up to 30 people and includes reusable plates, cups, cutlery, jugs, and up-cycled bunting. Borrow → Use → Wash → Return.
Packs are available from Carlow Library and selected community groups, supporting birthdays, school events, sports days, and other local gatherings. The initiative is part of a wider regional project funded by the EPA National Waste Prevention Programme.
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Irish Development Education Association (IDEA)
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The Irish Development Education Association (IDEA) has opened registration for its 2026 Webinar Series, featuring three timely and thought‑provoking sessions. It highlights three upcoming online sessions on global and social issues:
- Critical Thinking about Critical Minerals – 17 April, 12:00–13:30
- Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions – 30 April, 12:00–13:30
- Resistance to Imperialism – 14 May, 12:00–13:30
The webinars are designed to be timely and thought-provoking, and registration links are already open for the first two sessions. More information about speakers and facilitators will be shared soon.
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Carlow Garda Youth Awards 2026
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The Carlow Garda Youth Awards celebrate young people aged 13–21 who are making a positive difference in their communities. The awards recognise achievements such as leadership, community involvement, resilience, and contributions to community safety.
Individuals or groups can be nominated by schools, community organisations, or members of the public. The awards highlight the important role young people play in building stronger, safer communities and provide an opportunity to recognise their efforts.
Keep an eye out for nomination details and deadlines through local Garda channels.
Further details and to apply
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International Volunteer Year 2026
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International Volunteer Year 2026 (IVY 2026) will celebrate and promote volunteering worldwide. In Ireland, Volunteer Ireland has been appointed as the national lead and will deliver a programme of activities with sector partners.
A key campaign, “26 for ’26”, encourages people to volunteer 26 hours during 2026 and share their experiences. A national video series, A Day in the Life of a Volunteer, will also showcase real volunteer stories across the country.
Organisations are encouraged to get involved by promoting IVY 2026, recognising volunteers, sharing content, and supporting participation in the campaign.
For more information or to get involved, contact amy@volunteer.ie.
Details
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Carlow Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO) Launch
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Be part of the launch of the Carlow Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO), led by disabled people, for disabled people.
The event will be officially launched by Minister for Rural & Community Development, the Gaeltacht and Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer, underlining the importance of community participation and inclusion at all levels.
Where: Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow (part of Carlow PPN Expo & Networking Event)
When: Thursday, 23 April 2026 | 4:00pm
Why attend?
Meet others, learn about the new DPO, and help build a strong voice for disabled people in Carlow.
Free to attend – register now: Carlow PPN Expo & Networking Event
Contact: carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie | 087 195 1444
Easy Read Format
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Autism Research Webinar – Registration Open (National Disability Authority)
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Join this online session exploring findings from two new reviews on:
- Autism, life expectancy and ageing
- Healthcare experiences of Autistic LGBTQIA+ people
These reviews were commissioned by the Department for Children, Disability and Equality as part of the Autism Innovation Strategy.
Date: Friday, 17 April, 2026
Time: 2:00pm – 3:30pm
Location: Online (Zoom)
Registration: Open now – access details will be shared in advance
Irish Sign Language interpretation and live captioning will be provided.
For more information, contact: research@nda.ie or (01) 608 0400.
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Introduction to Politics 1: Active Citizenship
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This free, online, lunch time session on April 21st, from 1pm to 2pm is aimed at demystifying local politics.
Led by SHE Programme Manager Michelle Maher, it will be delivered in an informative and relaxed way.
The Introduction to Politics 1 is for anyone who wants to start to build up a bit of knowledge about what their council does.
The session will begin by having a look at the idea of active citizenship. It’s a phrase you hear all the time when people talk about ‘getting involved’. But what does it actually mean, and how can you do it in real life?
Join the SHE team, and become an active citizen.
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Connecting with Men Workshop
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This workshop supports practitioners and service providers to better engage with men around health and wellbeing. It focuses on understanding how and why to build effective relationships, rather than on specific health programmes.
Participants will explore men’s health, the influence of gender on attitudes and behaviours, and practical ways to create safe, male-friendly spaces. The session also provides guidance, reflection opportunities, and signposting to further supports.
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Lanterns on the Tullow Road
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Saturday 21st of March saw a host of creative community members join forces with Take A Part Carlow and visual artist Tom Meskell in a beautiful lantern procession through the Tullow Road area, Carlow.
This was the culmination of 6 weeks of intensive workshops where groups and community members including, the Hens Shed, Youth Reach Carlow, the New Oak Arts and Crafts groups and numerous others, worked together with Take A Part Carlow to learn the art of weaving willow to create beautiful lanterns. Supported by Carlow Arts Office.
Well done to all involved!
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Vacancies in Bagenalstown Family Resource Centre (FRC)
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Age Friendly Ireland, based on the WHO’s Global Age Friendly Framework, is a local government-led initiative preparing Ireland for a growing older population.
Coordinated by Meath County Council, it supports 35 local Age Friendly programmes nationwide. The service ensures older people’s voices are heard through regular consultation, influencing policy and service delivery at every level.
Website: Age Friendly Ireland
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TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow is dedicated to providing essential transport services to the rural areas of Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wicklow. Their reliable and efficient services aim to connect communities and ensure transportation access for all.
Website: ckwlocallink
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Health Services Executive (HSE)
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HSE Older People’s Services – Carlow & Kilkenny.
Comprehensive clinical, therapy, day services, home support, and convalescence are available.
Contact your Public Health Nurse at your local health centre.
For nursing home listings and subsidies, call (056) 778 4633.
Hospitals:
- Carlow District Hospital: (059) 913 6300
- Sacred Heart Hospital, Carlow: (059) 913 630
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2026 LGBTIQ+ Community Services Funding Call
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A total of €1.5 million is available to national, regional, and local groups to support community services and promote visibility, inclusion, and wellbeing for LGBTIQ+ people in Ireland.
The fund, announced by Minister Norma Foley, is open to existing LGBTIQ+ NGOs and community organisations and forms part of the National LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Strategy II 2024–2028. Applications are open until 30 April 2026.
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Community Centres Investment Fund
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The Community Centres Investment Fund is the largest ever capital investment in Community Centres. It provides funding for investments in Community Centres in order that these vital services remain useable, accessible, and safe and continue to meet the needs of the community into the future.
A report has been compiled on the outcomes of the 2022 Community Centre Investment fund. A copy of that can be accessed here.
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CLÁR Scheme 2026 Launched
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The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary TD, launched the CLÁR Scheme 2026 on 10th March. The scheme includes 110 additional areas across 20 counties, bringing eligibility to over 1 million people, with €12 million in funding available.
Measure 1 applications will be submitted through local authorities, while Measures 2 and 3 are open directly to community organisations.
Application deadline: 22nd May 2026
Further details, including scheme outlines and application forms, are available on the Department’s website.
For queries or to register interest in support seminars, contact CLAR@drcdg.gov.ie.
Scheme Outline
Download Application Form (Community groups are required to complete this form prior to submission to Carlow County Council)
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Cathaoirleach’s Postgraduate Bursary 2026
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Carlow County Council, in partnership with its Library Service, has launched the 2026 Cathaoirleach’s Bursary, announced by Cllr. Ken Murnane.
Five postgraduate students living in Carlow will be awarded an Apple MacBook Air to support their studies.
Deadline: Friday, 17 April 2026 at 12pm
Application forms are available on request from Carlow County Council Library Service at 059 912 9705 or by email to library@carlowcoco.ie
Applicants must live/have an address in County Carlow and be a current full-time or part-time postgraduate student or be accepted to start in a postgraduate programme in 2026.
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Funding for Training Links 2026 – 2028 are now open!
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Training Links from The Wheel, supports community and voluntary organisations to form Training Networks - a group of independently run and governed community and voluntary sector organisations who decide to come together as a group to undertake training that they may not be able to do individually.
The closing date for applications is Friday, 24 April 2026 at 5pm.
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Carlow Community Safety Survey – Extended Deadline
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The Carlow Local Community Safety Partnerships (LCSP) Safety Survey deadline has been extended, and more responses are encouraged.
The Partnership is inviting the public to share their views to help shape the future Community Safety Strategy for County Carlow.
Your feedback is vital in ensuring community voices are heard.
Participants can also enter a draw to win a €100 One4All voucher.
Please share this with your networks to help increase participation.
Closing date April 26th, 2026
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Consultation - Healthy Ireland Framework
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The purpose of the consultation is to inform the development of the next Healthy Ireland Framework, updating the current framework introduced in 2013. It takes a broad approach to health and wellbeing, including physical health, mental health, and social wellbeing, and aims to guide how government, local authorities, communities, and services work together to improve health outcomes.
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Carlow Tourism Plan – Have Your Say!
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A new five-year tourism plan for Carlow is being developed by Fáilte Ireland to attract more visitors, encourage longer stays, and spread tourism across the county in a sustainable way.
Input from the community is welcome at this early stage to help shape the future of tourism in Carlow.
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Youth & Community Work Programme Stakeholder Surveys
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Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) is developing a new QQI Level 5 Combined Youth and Community Work programme and is seeking input from those working in the sector.
Feedback is invited through two short surveys for:
The surveys take only a few minutes to complete and will help shape the content of the programme. Organisations are encouraged to share them widely across their networks.
Deadline: Friday, 17th April 2026
For further information, contact Emma at Emma.Davenport@kilkennycarlowetb.ie
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PPN Stakeholder Training – with Social Justice Ireland
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Carlow PPN invites all stakeholders to explore our self-paced, online training, developed with Social Justice Ireland and offered on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development
The programme covers:
- Introduction to PPNs (2 Modules)
- Local Government Budget
- PPNs and Local Government
- Effective Participation in Consultations
- Effective Facilitation
- Strategic Planning
- Measuring Outcomes and Impacts
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We would greatly appreciate your feedback on the recent Stakeholder Training from Social Justice Ireland (if you have participated).
Please share your thoughts and suggestions by emailing Fiona at fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie or click here to submit.
Registration is open, click below:
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Spring Summer Courses 2026 from Carmichael Ireland
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Carmichael Irelands mission is to work with nonprofits nationwide to help them to enhance their governance and operational effectiveness, through the provision of advice, impactful services and networking.
Access their Spring Summer Courses here
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Local Events & Other News
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2026 International Pan Celtic Festival
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Beidh an Fhéile Idirnáisiúnta Pan Cheilteach 2026 ar siúl ó 7-11 Aibreán 2026! Reáchtáiltear an fhéile gach bliain um Cháisc chun gach gné den chultúr agus den oidhreacht Cheilteach a cheiliúradh, chun ceangail idir na náisiúin Cheilteacha a neartú agus chun trádáil agus turasóireacht idir-Cheilteach a spreagadh idir na sé náisiún, Alba, Breizh, Cymru, Éire, Kernow agus Mannin.
The 2026 International Pan Celtic Festival will be held from 7th - 11th April 2026 in Carlow town! The festival is held annually at Easter to celebrate all aspects of Celtic culture and heritage, strengthen the bonds of kinship among the Celtic nations and encourage inter-Celtic trade and tourism between the six participating nations, Alba, Breizh, Cymru, Éire, Kernow agus Mannin.
See full festival programme here or download the full programme here!
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Registration is now open for the ‘Carlow Heritage Seminar 2026,’ with immediate effect until 14th April 2026, or until all coach seats have been allocated, on first come, first served basis.
Please email Niamh at nshannon@carlowcoco.ie to secure your place.
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Vaping and Nicotine Prevention Campaign
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The HSE has launched a new youth vaping and nicotine prevention campaign at Presentation De La Salle College in Bagenalstown, Co Carlow. This phase of the campaign focuses on young people whilst continuing to support adults to have conversations with young people about vaping and nicotine use. It has been informed by consultation and research with young people and adults.
Read the full details here
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Stay up to date with the latest developments from your local authority, including community initiatives, funding opportunities, public consultations, and upcoming projects. These updates keep you informed on decisions and actions that impact your area and provide opportunities to get involved and have your voice heard.
Local Authority News - Positive Coverage of Positive Achievements
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Visual Carlow - Open Call 2027
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VISUAL and Carlow Arts Office are pleased to announce a new open call for exhibition proposals, which will result in a new project at VISUAL in 2027.
Details
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*Please click on the posters for a fuller image...
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