Volume 12 - Issue 10 - Carlow Public Participation Network Members E-Bulletin, October 2026
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Community & Voluntary ~ Social Inclusion ~ Environment
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Welcome to our October E-Bulletin!
Representatives from Carlow PPN joined delegates from all 31 Public Participation Networks at the National PPN Conference in the Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone. The two days provided an opportunity for PPNs from across the country to come together, exchange experiences, build new connections and share ideas about strengthening community participation throughout Ireland. Held under the theme “Empowering Communities Through Connection, Collaboration and Cohesion,” the conference featured inspiring speakers, engaging workshops and discussions, along with site visits showcasing some of County Roscommon’s heritage, biodiversity and community-led initiatives.
September was a busy month for Carlow PPN. Alongside welcoming new member groups to our network, we delivered practical training in Good Governance at the Seven Oaks Hotel, which was well attended.
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Looking ahead, October promises to be just as dynamic. We are kicking off the month celebrating Climate Action Week with our PPN Expo on October 7th at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel in partnership with Carlow County Council's Environment Department.
We will hear from several IPB LEAF Fund 2026 awardees as they share updates on their projects, the progress made since receiving funding, and the positive impact their initiatives are having on biodiversity, sustainability and climate action across County Carlow.
Throughout October, we will also be attending the Living Well Expo on October 21st, in the Mount Wolseley Hotel, 9.30am – 1pm, bringing together older people from across the county to learn about the supports, services, programmes and opportunities available.
Thank you for your ongoing support and active participation in strengthening our community. Read on below for full details and upcoming opportunities!
Happy reading!
The Carlow PPN Team
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FREE Training Opportunity for Carlow PPN Member Groups!
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Carlow PPN is delighted to partner with Carmichael to offer a series of free online training opportunities for member groups.
These sessions are designed to support community and voluntary organisations in developing the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to effectively manage and grow their activities.
- Explore the training brochure attached
- Attend online from the comfort of your home or office
- Free of charge for Carlow PPN member groups
If a course catches your eye, simply let us know which session you would like to attend and we'll help you get registered.
Check the courses here and contact Trish at carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie or call 087 195 1444 and we will book it for you.
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Community Networking Expo 2026 - Still Time to Book!
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Join us and be inspired by the passion, creativity and determination of communities across County Carlow!
Have you, your community group, club, organisation or neighbourhood taken steps to help the environment, improve sustainability, support biodiversity, reduce waste, save energy, or make a positive difference in your community?
If so, we want to hear about it!
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Share your story. Celebrate your impact. Inspire others.
Everyone is welcome, including community and voluntary groups, residents' associations, sports clubs, schools, environmental groups, social inclusion groups, local organisations and anyone interested in learning more about Carlow PPN
Together, let's celebrate what our communities have achieved and inspire even more action for the future.
Contact Trish at carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie for further details.
Book through the QR code on poster or link below!
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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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Meetings October 2026:
- Community Development, Recreation, Amenity, Sports, Arts, Culture, Libraries, Museum and Heritage SPC Meeting - October 7th, 3pm - 5pm, Town Hall
- LAG & LCDC Meetings - October 12th, 3pm - 5pm, Town Hall
- Planning, Economic Development, Regeneration, Finance & ICT SPC Meeting - October 20th, 3pm - 5pm, Town Hall Chamber
- Carlow Tourism Meeting - October 28th, 4pm - 6pm, Oval Room
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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Climate Action Week: 3rd - 12th October 2026
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Carlow Climate Action Week is an annual programme of events led by Carlow County Council, showcasing climate action across the county. Through workshops, talks, demonstrations and family-friendly activities, it encourages communities to take positive steps towards a more sustainable future.
Get the full list of events here
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Invitation: Energy Retrofit Workshop - FREE Event
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Carlow Town Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) invites you to an informative workshop on energy retrofit works for residential homes and community organisation facilities.
With home energy costs continuing to rise, this is an important opportunity to learn how retrofit measures can improve energy efficiency, reduce energy use and support more comfortable, sustainable buildings.
Date: Wednesday, 7 October
Time: 6.30–8.30pm
Venue: Community Hall, An Gairdín Beo Community Garden
We warmly encourage homeowners and representatives of community organisations to attend and explore practical approaches to managing energy costs through retrofit works.
Full details can be found here
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CCEN Environmental Film Series - Sunday 11th October
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The first film of CCENs' Environmental Film Series is taking place at the Visual Carlow during Carlow County Council’s Climate Action Week.
CLIMATESCAM & Food For Thought is a special double screening exploring two of the most pressing and debated environmental issues of our time.
Showing on Sunday, 11th October at 3pm.
Admission is free, but advance booking is essential.
More details here
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Could you make better use of rainwater in your garden?
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Find out how at the Rainwater Planter Workshop during Carlow Climate Action Week.
Saturday 10th October. Hosted by Tullow Men's Shed.
Come along and discover practical ways to manage rainwater while creating something useful for your garden.
Check details here
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Sustainability Plan Resource
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The Blessington Allotments Campaign and Blessington Tourist Office recently launched SustainabilityPlan.ie, which is a free online resource for schools, community groups, sports clubs and businesses to create their own bespoke sustainability plan. See below for more information.
Full details here
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Europe’s Rural Mobility Future: Setting Standards Conference
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Kilkenny Leader Partnership (KLP) in partnership with European Rural Mobility Network and Renew Europe is pleased to share an announcement about three days of discussion and exchange on the future of rural mobility in Europe, taking place in Kilkenny, Ireland, on 27–29th October 2026.
We hope to see you there!
Further details
Register here
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Save the date! - Living Well Expo 2026
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The Living Well Expo 2026 will take place on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, from 9.30am to 1.00pm at the Mount Wolseley Hotel, Tullow. The event is being hosted by the Carlow Older People's Council, with the support of the Carlow County Council Age Friendly Programme.
The Expo will bring together a wide range of organisations and service providers, offering information and advice on health and wellbeing, community supports, active ageing opportunities, housing and home supports, transport and mobility, digital skills, safety and security, recreation, and social activities.
This is a free event and provides an excellent opportunity for older people, their families, and carers to learn about the services and supports available throughout County Carlow.
To help ensure access for all, the Age Friendly Office can arrange bus transport for groups wishing to attend, subject to availability and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Groups interested in availing of transport can phone 087 2145262 or email agefriendlycarlow@carlowcoco.ie to arrange.
The Carlow PPN Team look forward to seeing you there!
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Take Back Control Campaign
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This October is Quit Month and the HSE aims to encourage smokers to take the first step towards a smoke-free life, with the HSE Stop Smoking Service offering free, personalised support including one-to-one sessions, free nicotine replacement therapy, and ongoing encouragement from trained stop smoking advisors.
Register for a call back from a friendly stop smoking advisor near you by:
Calling: 087 095 7126 or emailing: southeaststopsmokingsupport@hse.ie
You can find our closest clinic by visiting HSE Service Finder
HSE Campaign Pack
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One Stop Shop - Carlow Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT)
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Carlow’s Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT) are organising their second One Stop Shop event, taking place on Wednesday 14th October in the Seven Oaks Hotel.
The LAIT along with the Community Integration Forum have invited local and national agencies providing key supports and services to communities in Carlow to have an information stand.
With a focus on integration, they particularly wanted to welcome New Communities in Carlow to attend the One Stop Shop, to get to know the different supports and services available and find out more about the County.
The One Stop Shop will have information stands from organisations covering a range of areas including:
- Volunteering
- Health
- Housing
- Migrant Support
- Training & Education
- Employment Rights and Advice
- Childcare
Looking forward to seeing you there!
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Roadmap for Social Inclusion 2026-2030
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The Roadmap for Social Inclusion 2026-2030 sets out the government's plan to reduce poverty and improve social inclusion over the next five years. It aims to reduce consistent poverty, tackle income inequality, and make Ireland a more inclusive society. The roadmap includes 63 actions across areas such as income supports, employment, housing, education, health, transport, childcare, and community services.
Roadmap for Social Inclusion 2026-2030 can be found 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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Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS)
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The Built Heritage Investment Scheme 2027 (BHIS) is open for applications and is for the repair and conservation of structures that are protected under the Planning and Development Acts.
Full details here
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Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2027
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Community and voluntary groups can now apply for grants from €800 to €25,000 to help protect, celebrate and share Ireland’s heritage.
Funding is available for:
- Biodiversity & Nature Restoration
- Heritage at Risk
- Traditional Skills & Conservation
- Digital Heritage & Storytelling
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
A new two-stage application process means only a short Expression of Interest (EOI) is needed at this stage.
Details
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Community Sport Facilities Fund 2026
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The 2026 Community Sport Facilities Fund is now open for registration through the new SPRAOI grant system. Clubs and organisations can register now, with funding applications open from 19 October 2026 to 26 February 2027. Existing organisations have already been transferred to the new system.
Full details and application form can be found here
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The AI for Good Fund is a €1.75 million, 12-month fund supported by Google.org and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht (DRCDG) via the Dormant Accounts Fund.
The AI for Good Fund aims to support not-for-profit organisations to build pathways for responsible AI learning and adoption.
Full details here
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We want to hear from you!
Online Consultation - NTA Carlow Town Bus Service Review
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The National Transport Authority (NTA) is carrying out a review of the Carlow Town Bus Service and wants to hear from local bus users. Join us for an online Zoom session on 21st October 2026 at 3.00pm to learn more about the review and share your feedback on the service.
Registration details available below.
Please register here
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Wellbeing: Measuring What Matters
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Social Justice Ireland is conducting a survey to better understand quality of life and wellbeing in Ireland. Participation is encouraged, with insights helping to inform future research and advocacy. The survey takes approximately 20-30 minutes to complete, and most questions are optional.
Take the survey here
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National Survey on Pay and Conditions of Employment in the Community, Voluntary and Charities Sector 2026
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This survey aims to gather information on pay, benefits, and HR practices within organisations. All information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence. Participants are encouraged to read the accompanying explanatory notes before completing the questionnaire.
Take the questionnaire here
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Barriers to Accessing Bank Accounts for Small Community Groups
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Social Justice Ireland is conducting a short survey to better understand how community groups access basic financial services and identify any gaps. Feedback will help support research aimed at improving access to essential financial products for community groups. The survey is anonymous and open until 31st October 2026.
Take the Survey here
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The Irish Volunteering Index
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The Irish Volunteering Index is a national survey exploring volunteering across Ireland, helping to identify what motivates people to get involved, the challenges they face, and the supports needed to strengthen volunteering in the future. Participants are encouraged to complete the survey through their organisation, ensuring their feedback contributes to both their organisation’s results and the national picture of volunteering in Ireland.
Take the survey here
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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.
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Introduction to Politics Course from See Her Elected (SHE)
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Join a free online course to demystify politics for women and encourage engagement in electoral politics. This course is for women who want to start to build up a bit of knowledge about politics, the functions of our county council and the day-to-day job of a county councillor.
Full details can be found here
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Disability Equality Training - Carlow Disabled Person Organisation (CDPO)
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Carlow PPN is pleased to support this Disability Equality Training, delivered by the Independent Living Movement Ireland (ILMI) and the Carlow Disabled Persons Organisation (CDPO).
This training will help disabled people learn more about their rights and build confidence to speak up for themselves and others.
When & Where: Wednesday 29th October | 10am to 1pm | Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow
Register here
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Local Events & Other News
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Carlow’s Cultural Programme for Ireland’s EU Presidency announced
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Carlow County Council is pleased to announce its Cultural Programme for Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union, taking place from October to December as part of Cultúr 2026: Sharing Ireland's Culture. The programme features four flagship events across Heritage, Literature, Visual Art and Music, celebrating Carlow's rich cultural identity and its enduring connections with Europe.
Read Press Release here
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Harmonious Carlow – Etched in Stone
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Harmonious Carlow – Etched in Stone, developed by Carlow County Council Heritage Office, as part of Cultúr 2026, invites the public to an evening lecture, "Bringing Rock Art in from the Cold", by Prof. Muirís Ó Suilleabháín, taking place in the Step House Hotel, Borris, on 9 October at 6pm. Refreshments will be served from 5.30pm.
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FIRE NIGHT featuring VolkiDána
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Experience VolkiDána’s thrilling outdoor spectacle of fire, folklore and larger-than-life performance for all the family.
Date: Friday 23rd October 2026
Venue: Carlow College , College Street, Carlow
Gates Open: 7.00pm
Tickets: FREE (booking required, see below))
Contact for Queries: enterprise@carlowcoco.ie / 059/9129783
Book here
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Copyright © 2026 County Carlow PPN. All rights reserved.
Carlow Public Participation Network
Town Hall, Carlow, R93 E7R7
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