Volume 12 - Issue 2 - Carlow Public Participation Network Members E-Bulletin, February 2026
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Influencing the Decisions That Shape Your Community!
Community & Voluntary ~ Social Inclusion ~ Environment
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~ Welcome to February 2026 eBulletin ~
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The eBulletin is designed to keep you informed and up to date on relevant news, events, and opportunities, locally and nationally, providing an excellent platform to highlight and promote your groups' activities!
We encourage you to get involved and share your updates ~ for queries, please contact Fiona at fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie or carlowppn@carlowcoco
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Membership & Governance:
Carlow PPN hosted its first Secretariat meeting of the year, welcoming new members and beginning a series of mandatory inductions. In line with DRCDG governance, three Secretariat subgroups were established:
- Finance,
- Support & Strategy, and
- Council Liaison.
PPN also participated in national and regional meetings to explore collaborative opportunities.
The PPN is promoting Stakeholder Training, an online, self-paced programme from Social Justice Ireland for PPN workers, Secretariat members, representatives, member groups, local authority staff, and elected councillors.
Registration and support are available here: Social Justice Ireland Training.
This training is available to the following PPN Stakeholders:
- PPN Workers
- PPN Secretariat Members
- PPN Representatives
- PPN Member Groups
- Local Authority Staff
- Elected Councillors
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Engagement
Open members meetings: The PPN has organised open meetings on the last Wednesday of each month to strengthen engagement with member groups. By coordinating these meetings across different areas of the county, the PPN aims to improve accessibility, ensure broader geographic representation, and enhance two-way communication with local communities. The meetings are particularly for member groups we haven't met yet, the meet ups are a fantastic opportunity to meet and network with other groups in the county. The next two meet ups are taking place in Tullow, followed by Bagenalstown. Watch out for an email invitation!
All are welcome.
Independent Living Movement Ireland (ILMI): A further meeting was held with Independent Living Movement Ireland (ILMI) in relation to the establishment of the Carlow Disabled Persons Organisation. This initiative strongly aligns with the theme of Social Inclusion, one of the core pillars of the Carlow Wellbeing Vision, by promoting the meaningful participation, representation, and voice of people with disabilities in local decision-making. The PPN will formally launch this new organisation at the forthcoming PPN Plenary and Community Expo on 23rd April 2026.
Representation & Engagement
• Supported new PPN reps on the Carlow Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP) through induction sessions.
• Ongoing engagement with Healthy Carlow and Integration Workers Network.
• Supported the Community Section with promotion of Pride of Place funding and workshops.
Communications (January)
• 360 e-bulletins sent
• 774 special notices
• 28 Facebook posts | 6 Instagram posts | 1,004 X followers
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Carlow PPN Expo & Networking Event - April 23rd 2026 - Save the date!!
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Carlow PPN is delighted to announce our upcoming Community Expo & Networking Event!
When: Thursday, 23rd April 2026, 4:00pm
Where: Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow
This year’s theme is Social Inclusion - an opportunity to come together, share ideas, and highlight the work being done across our communities to build a more inclusive Carlow.
We are currently inviting:
- Topic suggestions you would like to see discussed on the day
- Expressions of interest from groups or organisations who would like to host a stand at the event
If you would like to get involved, please email carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie.
We would love to hear from you and look forward to welcoming community groups, organisations, and stakeholders from across the county.
Please save the date - more details coming soon.
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Pride of Place Grant Workshop
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Carlow County Council has launched the Pride of Place Grants & Competition 2026, supporting community groups to improve towns, villages, estates, streets, and roads. Funding is open to Tidy Towns and Residents’/Environmental groups, with eligibility linked to entering the Pride of Place Competition.
To help groups apply, Carlow PPN are delivering application support workshops in partnership with Carlow County Council. These workshops will guide groups through the process and help them submit strong applications.
Full application and date details
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Application Workshop Dates:
- Wed 4th Feb – Bagenalstown Library, 2.15 - 4.15pm
- Mon 9th Feb – Online, 6 – 7pm
- Wed 11th Feb – Carlow Library, 2 - 4pm
- Tues 17th Feb – Tullow Library, 2 - 4pm
Applicants must submit a completed application form by Friday 27 February 2026.
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Showcasing Carlow Community Groups
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Become part of the community working to make a difference in Carlow. Connect with local groups who share your vision and goals for 2026. The following are just three Carlow PPN member groups among hundreds across Ireland.
Discover more on your PPN’s website: www.carlowppn.ie.
Did you know you can explore other groups in Carlow? Simply visit the Members Directory section.
Members gain access to free training, local event information, funding opportunities,
and the chance to influence policy-making within your County Council.
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Carlow Fringe Arts Festival
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(Community & Voluntary Group)
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The Carlow Fringe Arts Festival is a vibrant arts event in Carlow Town that showcases a variety of creative work including painting, photography, crafts, print, art and music. It brings together local and visiting artists to exhibit and perform across several venues, celebrates community creativity, and offers opportunities for audiences to engage with visual and performing arts. The festival typically takes place in early August, running over several days each year. Visit their FB page here
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An Gairdín Beo is a two-acre community garden in the heart of Carlow Town. It began in 2014 when the Sisters of Mercy from St Leo’s Convent invited local groups and individuals to explore the idea of developing a community garden on adjoining land. Strong local interest led to the formation of volunteer committees, and they received special recognition at the 2024 Carlow Pride of Place Awards, being named the overall County Winner for its community garden work and positive local impact. Visit their website
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Tullow Area School Completion Programme (SCP)
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Tullow SCP supports children and young people aged 5 -18 to stay in school and reach their full potential. They provide mentoring, emotional and behaviour support, workshops on mental health and cyber safety, breakfast and fruit schemes, family support, and after-school/holiday programmes. Services are offered in local schools, at their centre, and through home visits when needed. More here
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Strategic Policy Committees 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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Dates of Strategic Policy Committees (SPC) & other committee meetings February 2026:
- Carlow Tourism Meeting - 25/02/2026 4pm
- Housing & Integration SPC - 11/02/2026 3.30pm
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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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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Local Authorities Water Programme (LAWPRO)
Public Meeting - Carlow & Tullow MDs
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LAWPRO Public Meeting – Carlow & Tullow
Wednesday, 11 Feb, 7pm | Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow
Join the community to discuss local river and stream health, hear updates on the Barrow and Slaney catchments, and explore ways to protect and enhance our waterways.
All residents, landowners, anglers, farmers, and anyone who cares about rivers are welcome. There will be time for questions, discussion, and networking. Your input helps shape community-led water action.
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Reduce Your Use Poster Competition
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SEAI has launched its annual Reduce Your Use poster competition, now open to all public bodies registered for the RYU Campaign 2025–26. Each organisation may submit up to five posters.
All entries must be original and created by the participant(s).
Posters can be drawn by hand or designed digitally — creativity in any form is welcome.
This is a great opportunity to share ideas, promote energy awareness, and contribute to our collective sustainability goals.
Deadline for submission is 02 March at 5PM.
Full details
Send your posters to publicsector@seai.ie with the subject line RYU Poster Competition Submission. Deadline for submission is 02 March at 5PM.
Late entries will not be admitted.
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Saving Plants, Wildlife & Habitats
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Community Foundation Ireland and its donors share a mission to promote equality in thriving communities. Working with over 5,000 voluntary, community, and charitable partners, they act as a national philanthropic hub, providing knowledge and expertise to support effective and strategic giving.
"Our plants, wildlife and native habitats are disappearing. Nature both globally and much closer to home is in crisis. Landscapes, our coasts and our waterways are becoming stripped of life.
Birds, insects, plants and animals are either gone or becoming less frequent. The bird-calls, buzzing insects and fleeting sightings of hares, bats or butterflies which marked child-hood just a generation ago – are becoming less and less familiar".
Read full report
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Tullow Road Community Expo
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Save the Date - 26th February 2026
The first of many, Tullow Road Community Expo is scheduled for February 26th 2026.
Carlow PPN and Carlow County Council and other local agencies are working on plans for the event and are very much looking forward to connecting with the community in this area.
Details to follow!
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The Carlow Volunteer Centre Expo
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The Carlow Volunteer Expo offers organisations an excellent opportunity to recruit new volunteers, showcase the impact of their activities, and match roles with individuals’ skills and availability.
The event also enables voluntary groups to network, share ideas, and build partnerships that strengthen community services.
KCLR96FM will be broadcasting live from the Expo.
For more information, contact Natasha at natasha@volunteercarlow.ie or 059 917 3033.
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Carlow Dementia Social Club – Monthly Meet-Up
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The Community Engagement Officer (South-East), Alzheimer Society of Ireland, thanks you for your continued support in promoting community initiatives.
They are sharing details of a monthly Social Club in Carlow for people living with dementia, their families, and carers. It takes place on the last Friday of each month, 11:00am–1:00pm, in Bethany House Day Centre, Barrack Street, Carlow.
The club offers a warm, welcoming space with tea, music, and activities, supporting connection, wellbeing, and reducing isolation. Continued support in sharing this with the wider Carlow community is greatly appreciated.
Contact: Tara Rice at 087 633 8484
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Exploring Incentives for Smoking and Vaping Cessation
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Smoking and vaping are harmful and highly addictive, yet quitting can be very difficult. Evidence shows that financial incentives, such as shopping vouchers, can help more people successfully quit. This survey explores attitudes and preferences around using financial rewards to support smoking and vaping cessation.
Take the Survey here
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Arts For a Flourishing Carlow
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Carlow County Council Arts Service has launched its new Strategic Arts Development Plan, “Arts For a Flourishing Carlow”, at Carlow Town Hall. The event, hosted by the Arts Office, featured MC Cian Kinsella, performances by Music Generation Carlow, and formal launch addresses by Cllr. Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach, and Katie Lowery from the Arts Council of Ireland.
Read more here
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Launch of the Pride of Place Grant
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Despite recent floods, optimism was high in Ballymurphy on 29 January as Carlow County Council launched the new Pride of Place Grants (formerly Environmental and Amenity Grants). Ballymurphy, 2025 County Winner in the Towns and Villages category, was chosen as the launch venue.
The revamped scheme supports Residents’ Associations and Community Groups to enhance and celebrate their local environment, with streamlined applications and the opportunity to showcase achievements at county level.
More informatio
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Carlow Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO) Launch
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Calling all Disabled People and Disability Allies in Carlow.
We are launching the Carlow Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO). A DPO is run by disabled people, for disabled people.
This event takes place at Carlow PPN Expo & Networking Event.
When: Thursday, 23 April 2026 at 4:00pm
Where: The Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow
About the event: Come and meet people and learn about the new Carlow DPO. We want to build a strong voice for disabled people.
Register for this FREE event:
Email: paulasoraghan@ilmi.ie Phone: 087 163 0433 Paula Soraghan, VOICE Community Development Worker, ILMI.
or contact Carlow PPN for queries carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie tel: 087 195 1444
Easy Read Format
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Storms and emergencies can happen suddenly, and some residents, such as those living alone, with health or mobility needs, or relying on medical equipment, may need extra support.
Carlow County Council is launching a Vulnerable Person Register to help ensure timely assistance during emergencies like storms, power outages, or evacuations.
Who can register:
- People living alone
- Those with medical or mobility needs
- Residents dependent on powered medical equipment
- Anyone who may have difficulty communicating or evacuating in a crisis
How to register:
Contact the Age Friendly Office:
Email: agefriendlycarlow@carlowcoco.ie
Phone: 059 9136207 / 087 214 5262
Return completed forms to: Age Friendly Office, Community Department, Carlow County Council, R93 E7R7
Access the Registration from here
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Misconceptions and Public Attitudes on Immigration
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This study examines public perceptions of immigration in Ireland and their link to attitudes toward immigrants. Conducted amid heightened public debate, including protests at asylum seeker sites, rises in hate crimes, and online misinformation, it highlights the importance of understanding the factors shaping immigration attitudes, even as most of the public remains relatively positive.
Read report here
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HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing
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Listen to the HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing Podcast with interviews and insights on the work underway by HSE Health and Wellbeing and their partners to deliver on the Healthy Ireland ambition of supporting, protecting and empowering individuals, families and their communities to achieve their full health potential.
Access here
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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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Emergency Response Payment (formerly known as Humanitarian Assistance Scheme)
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The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is now called the Emergency Response Payment. If your home has been affected by a severe weather event such as flooding, the payment provides emergency financial help.
The payment helps you meet the cost of essential needs and repairs rather than full compensation for losses or damage. It is only open for applications when activated in response to a severe weather event.
Full details
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Pride of Place Grants and Competition 2026
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Carlow County Council has launched the Pride of Place Grants and Competition 2026, supporting community groups across the county to enhance towns, villages, estates, streets, and roads. Funding is available to Tidy Towns and Residents’ / Environmental groups for local improvement works, with eligibility linked to participation in the Pride of Place Competition.
The programme celebrates community effort in environmental enhancement, biodiversity, climate action, litter reduction, community gardens, education projects, and wildlife protection, while also recognising long-standing volunteer leadership.
To support applicants, Carlow PPN will be working in partnership with Carlow County Council to deliver application support workshops, helping groups understand the process and submit strong applications.
Application workshop dates are on the poster!
Applicants must submit a completed application form by: Friday 27 February 2026
Further details
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Local Enhancement Programme 2026
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The Local Enhancement Programme 2026 is now open for applications and the application form and guidelines are attached. A total of €156,072.58 in capital funding is available to support necessary repairs and improvements to facilities, energy-efficiency projects, the purchase of equipment, and similar works. This funding is allocated as follows:
€46,821.77 (30%) is ring‑fenced for small-scale grants of €1,000 or less.
€109,250.81 (70%) is designated as targeted funding for disadvantaged areas, as identified in the County Carlow Local Economic and Community Plan 2023–2029.
The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 27th February, 2026.
Full details & how to apply at; Local Community Development Committee | Carlow Co Co
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Carlow Beo! 2026 Open Call
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Carlow County Council Arts Office is presenting Carlow Beo, a county-wide celebration of live performance that brings people together through culture and creativity.
The programme will fund a variety of events, including music, theatre, comedy, dance, street arts, and more, in venues, parks, libraries, and community centres across Carlow. Outdoor performances are especially encouraged, from small solo shows to amplified concerts. Closing date for application 13th February 2026 at 12 noon.
Apply here
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Streetscape Enhancement Scheme
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Carlow County Council is excited to invite business owners as well as residential and commercial property owners to participate in the 2026 County Carlow Streetscape Enhancement Scheme. This initiative aims to enrich our local streetscapes, fostering more vibrant and visually appealing spaces for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.
Apply here
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Carlow Festival and Events Grant Scheme
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Carlow County Council’s Festival and Events Grant Scheme supports the creation, development, and promotion of events in County Carlow during 2026 that have a positive impact on local tourism. The fund supports Council-led events, partnership events, and externally organised events that receive funding through an application process.
Apply here
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Music Network: €300,000 funding available through the Music Capital Scheme Piano Award
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Applications are now open for the Music Capital Scheme Piano Award to support the purchase/refurbishment of concert standard grand pianos by arts venues and music presenters.
Apply here
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The Rosie & Jim Charity Fund: Supporting Projects Up to €40,000
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Rosie and Jim is a family business producing great tasting and nutritious chicken products since 1997.
This year, they want to give all registered Irish charities the opportunity to apply for one or multiple initiatives through our charity fund.
A total of up to €40,000 is available and we’re inviting charities from across the country to apply for funding that will support their cause.
Apply here
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Consultations, Surveys & Submissions
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EU Projects -Hands Across Generations - Survey
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Carlow County Council is conducting an important national assessment to understand the current state, challenges, and potential of traditional crafts in the region. The insights gathered will directly inform future training programmes, support initiatives, and policy discussions aimed at preserving heritage skills and strengthening economic opportunities for artisans.
Take the Survey here
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EU Funding with 'Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values' Programme (CERV) Projects
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Want to access EU funding for social challenges like discrimination, inclusion, human rights, or civic participation?
Join The Wheel for an online info session on the EU’s CERV Programme, which supports projects promoting equality, democracy, and fundamental rights.
Learn about funding opportunities, application tips, and hear from an Irish organisation with successful CERV projects.
Interested? Email fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie to book your spot.
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Amber Domestic Abuse CLG Workshops
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Amber Domestic Abuse CLG (trading as Amber) is hosting a Domestic Abuse and Coercive Control training workshop for frontline professionals, based on the 3 R’s:
- Recognise,
- Respond,
- Refer
The workshop will take place on Tuesday, 24th March 2026, 10am–4pm at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow. Facilitated by Amber’s experienced outreach and legal support workers, the session will build confidence in recognising abuse, responding safely, and referring to specialist services. A light lunch is provided, and a €35 contribution covers costs.
Registration details will be sent in a follow-up email
30 places are available.
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PPN Stakeholder Training – Now Open 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
Registration is now open,click be
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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.
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Upgrades to the Visual Theatre
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On 15 January, Carlow County Council signed contracts with Aramark Energy, following a competitive procurement process, as the lead design team for €1.5m energy upgrades and decarbonisation works at VISUAL Carlow Arts Centre. The project will fully decarbonise the building, including removing gas heating, upgrading insulation and ventilation systems, and installing solar PV panels, supporting sustainability and energy efficiency at the centre.
Read more
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Royal Irish Academy Archaeological funding for Research Excavation at Ballymoon Castle
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A second season of archaeological excavation will take place at Ballymoon Castle, Co. Carlow, following funding awarded to nine projects across three grant schemes by the Royal Irish Academy.
Site Director Nial O’Neil received Royal Irish Academy funding to investigate key anomalies identified in the geophysical survey. Carlow County Council, through the Heritage Office, will provide additional support for the excavation.
Videography of the excavation will be shared as the work progresses, as was done in 2024. The excavation is expected in early to mid Q2 2026.
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February Events from local County Carlow Environmental Network (CCEN) and the national Irish Environmental Network
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The County Carlow Environmental Network (CCEN) AGM will take place on the 9th at 7:30 pm in Carlow.
Thur 19th February - The CCEN are showing a number of short films on the topic of Wetlands and to collaborate with the Drummin Bog Project, St. Mullins. The Drummin Bog Project is a voluntary not-for-profit community education project to restore the only raised bog in Co. Carlow - www.drumminbog.com
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*Please click on the posters for a fuller image...
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