Volume 11 - Issue 4 - Carlow Public Participation Network Members E-Bulletin, April 2025
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Influencing the Decisions That Shape Your Community!
Community & Voluntary ~ Social Inclusion ~ Environment
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We hope you enjoy reading our April eBulletin.
Please share it with members of your group -
it is important that group members are kept up to date and well informed!
Please avail of the opportunity to promote your groups activities here!
Contact Fiona - fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie or carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie
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Community Engagement and Representation
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Carlow PPN continues to facilitate community engagement by providing a platform for community groups to influence local decision-making. We have been involved in re-registration processes for member groups and have conducted research on barriers to involvement in PPNs to ensure diverse participation. Additionally, we have been active in promoting representation on various boards and committees, encouraging community members to get involved in shaping policies that affect your communities.
For the most current updates and information on upcoming events, training sessions, and funding opportunities, community members are encouraged to visit Carlow PPN's official website and sign-up to our e-bulletin.
Website
eBulletin Sign-Up
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International Women's Day 2025 - Celebrating Corona North
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Carlow PPN Women’s groups were invited to a special gathering at Altamont House, the cherished home of Corona North, to celebrate International Women’s Day.
Corona North’s vision and dedication transformed the wild landscape she inherited at Altamont into one of Europe’s most breath-taking gardens. As we stroll through the stunning grounds, where snowdrops will be in full bloom, honoured her legacy and the resilience of women everywhere.
Over coffee and cake, we invited the women to share in the celebration and to bring along their favourite poem, story, or a piece of music to add to this inspiring afternoon of reflection, creativity, and connection.
This event highlighted the strength of community and the importance of recognising women’s contributions in a meaningful and lasting way.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part!
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PPN Stakeholder Training | Social Justice Ireland
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Social Justice Ireland (SJI) is an independent think tank and advocacy group dedicated to improving lives and communities. They provide unbiased social analysis and develop evidence-based policies to build a sustainable future for everyone. Their work is guided by a strong commitment to human rights and the common good.
They offer PPN Stakeholder Training to support and strengthen Public Participation Networks (PPNs). This training helps PPN members, representatives, and stakeholders engage effectively in local decision-making processes.
What the Training Covers:
- Understanding PPNs – The role, structure, and purpose of PPNs in local governance.
- Effective Representation – Skills and strategies for PPN representatives to advocate for their communities.
- Policy & Decision-Making – How local policies are developed and how PPNs can influence them.
Collaboration & Engagement – Building strong relationships with local authorities and other stakeholders.
SJI’s training ensures that PPN members have the knowledge and confidence to contribute meaningfully to social and policy change at the local level.
Register for Training here
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What is the Local Community Development Committee and How Do You Use It?
An introduction to the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC)
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An introduction for current and aspiring Public Participation Network Representatives
Join the Irish Environmental Network (IEN) and the Environmental Pillar from on April 14th at 7.30pm to hear from Kelley Bermingham, Dublin City PPN Representative on the Local Community Development Company (LCDC).
Kelley is the Community Officer at St. Patrick's Cathedral, and has served on the LCDC since 2019.
Kelley will share her knowledge and experience from her time on the LCDC. There will be lots of time for questions and discussion at this event, so it is perfect for anyone who is thinking of taking a role on the Local Community Development Committee, or who is a newly appointed PPN Representative.
All are welcome, please share this event with other PPN Members and anyone who may be interested in attending.
When: April 14th, 7.30pm
Where: Online
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/A81GCVbJRCCUyHgEv6ib1Q
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Strategic Policy Committees in Local Government
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Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) are integral to local government in Ireland, facilitating policy development across various sectors by incorporating input from elected councillors, local sectoral interests, and the broader community agencies. Their primary function is to advise and assist the Council in formulating, developing, and reviewing policies.
They operate under the framework established by the Local Government Act 2001 and subsequent amendments, which outline their composition, functions, and procedures.
For the most current and detailed information on SPCs, including meeting schedules, agendas, and policy developments, I recommend visiting the official website of your local authority or contacting them directly.
Local authorities regularly update their websites with information pertinent to SPC activities and public participation opportunities.
Carlow County Council Website
Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) are established in line with legislation to consider matters connected with the formulation, development, monitoring and review of policy which relate to the functions of the local authority and to advise the Council on those matters.
Carlow PPN have been allocated 9 seats on these SPCs:
3 Environment seats
4 Community & Voluntary seats
2 Social Inclusion seats
Making an impact in local policy creation: Introduction to Strategic Policy Committees Video
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Dates of next SPC meetings for April 2025:
- LCDC - 2.30pm, April 8th, 2025
- Carlow Heritage Forum - 11am, April 10th, 2025
- Planning, Economic Development, Regeneration, Finance & ICT SPC - 3pm, 15th April, 2025
- Carlow Tourism Meeting - 5pm, April 16th, 2025
- Transportation, Environment, Emergency Services & Capital Projects SPC - 3pm, April 30th, 2025
The current Strategic Policy Committees (SPC) in Carlow County Council are:
- Planning, Economic Development, Regeneration, Finance and ICT SPC
- Transportation, Environment, Emergency Services and Capital Projects SPC
- Housing and Integration SPC
- Community Development, Recreation, Amenity, Sports, Arts & Culture, Libraries, Museum, Heritage SPC
Carlow PPN have been allocated 9 seats on these SPCs:
- 3 Environment seats
- 4 Community & Voluntary seats
- 2 Social Inclusion seats
We wish to advise that we are currently in the process of nominating new Reps to these SPCs -
Further information to follow.
Carlow PPN made a submission to the Public Consultation on the
Carlow Local Authority Draft Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) Scheme.
You can access Carlow PPNs Submission here
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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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Booking is essential for this free workshop as places are limited, due to the hands-on nature of it with tutor and creative artist Athena Brownrigg. Simply email dsewell@carlowcoco.ie or environment@carlowcoco.ie to secure a place.
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Flip it, Fix it, Flaunt it Workshop
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Do you want your 12-16-year-olds to pick up fun, practical skills whilst learning about sustainability?
Dee from Carlow County Council Environment Team are inviting young people in Carlow to join their free 2-hour workshop where they can learn to 'Flip it, Fix it and Flaunt it!'
When they sign up to this Re-Wear Revolution they will discover how to revamp, reuse, repair & re-wear their clothes!
What’s in it for them?
~ Hands-on creativity & DIY fashion hacks
~ A fun way to learn about sustainability
~ Confidence in making and mending their own style
What’s in it for you?
~ Less waste, more wear – Fewer clothes in the bin, more money saved!
~ New skills, less screen time – A hands-on, creative activity that gets them off their devices.
~ Confidence & independence – They’ll learn to mend, upcycle, and take care of their own clothes.
~ Improved Health - 70 chemical risk alerts have been reported for textiles, with 85% of these relating to human health risks; 60% of textile alerts were chromium, which may trigger allergic reactions.
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National Biodiversity Week Ireland - 17th to 26th May 2025
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National Biodiversity Week is all about connecting you with nature. It’s about communicating the importance of biodiversity and providing motivation to play your part in protecting it.
It’s also about entertainment! Find fun and wonder outdoors with ten days of celebration!
National Biodiversity Week is organised by the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), with thanks to funding from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Events are run by IEN member groups, as well as by Heritage Officers and other local groups.
Full details
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SEAI 2025 Home Energy Upgrades deck
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The SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) 2025 Home Energy Upgrades presentation below outlines grant schemes and initiatives aimed at enhancing the energy efficiency of homes across Ireland. These programs support various upgrades, including insulation, heating system enhancements, solar panel installations, and comprehensive home retrofits. The grants are designed to assist homeowners in reducing energy consumption, lowering utility costs, and improving overall home comfort. Additionally, the SEAI offers financial incentives such as low-cost loans and fully funded energy upgrades for eligible households, including those with low incomes. The presentation emphasises the importance of these upgrades in achieving national energy efficiency and carbon reduction goals.
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Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Update
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Volunteer with the Drummin Bog on 27th April 2025
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Celebrate the beauty of Spring with a Drummin Bog Volunteer Morning in South County Carlow!
Drummin Bog invites volunteers to spend a rewarding morning helping with conservation efforts - lopping, chopping, and enjoying the fresh air. It’s a fantastic way to unwind after a busy week while supporting this precious ecosystem.
Those interested are encouraged to RSVP so organisers can plan accordingly.
The Drummin Bog Project committee extends a heartfelt thank you to all participants—everyone is welcome, even for just an hour.
Every bit of support makes a difference!
More details can be found in the poster.
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Bagenalstown in Bloom (BIB) 2025
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Exciting things are happening in Bagenalstown!
The Bagenalstown Area Community Development Group is hosting a Public BIB Planning meeting on Thursday, March 27th, at 7 pm in the Old Post Office, Bagenalstown, R31X611
Last year, 15 community groups and 8 organisations came together to create something truly special. Now, we're gearing up for an even more vibrant Bagenalstown in Bloom 2025 - but your help and ideas, energy, and enthusiasm is needed to make it happen!
Want to be part of something amazing?
Come along or send a representative to help shape this year’s festival.
Let’s grow this celebration together!
Everyone is welcome—see you there!
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Carlow County Council is delighted to announce a new ‘fit to farm’ programme beginning on 23rd April for 7 weeks.
This fitness and wellbeing programme has been developed as a follow on programme from the Carlow Wellbeing Initiative that was held in Carlow Mart last year.
Fit to Farm has been created specifically for members of the farming community and will incorporate different health and fitness elements and nutritional information and advice every week.
It is free to attend and will be held in St. Fiacc’s Hall, Carlow Town every Wednesday evening from 7-9pm.
To sign up please contact Michael on 059 9136202 or email michaelmccarthy@carlowcoco.ie
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Minister Dara Calleary Launches Station House – Connected Hub in Hacketstown, Co. Carlow
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Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary, visited County Carlow recently to officially launch the newly developed Station House – Connected Hub, followed by a series of engagements highlighting innovation, rural development, and enterprise excellence across the county.
The Minister officially launched the Station House – Connected Hub in Hacketstown, Carlow. This is a state-of-the-art enterprise space supporting entrepreneurship, remote work, and business development.
Funded under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme, the hub is part of the Rural Innovation Network, driving economic growth and innovation in rural County Carlow.
Full details
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County Carlow Heritage Seminar 2025
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An exciting semiar about the heritage of County Carlow is guaranteed. A diverse selection of presentations by professions, community groups and private individuals all of whom were involved directly in heritage projects in 2024. In addition, you'll get an insight into the new initiatives and projects for 2025.
Come along to the Woodford Dolmen Hotel - listen, chat and network, all are welcome.
FREE event.
Book here
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Join & Support - Carlow Arts Festival 2025
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Your support is essential and gives us the best chance of long-term success. Each year, Carlow Arts Festival present a kaleidoscopic programme of works by local, national and international artists, across a variety of art-forms including dance, street arts, spectacle, literature, circus, visual arts, film, music and theatre.
Info to become a Sponsor or a Volunteer for the Festival day
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National Preferential Caravan Loan Scheme for Travellers
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This scheme will allow local authorities to offer preferential, discounted loans for Travellers to purchase their own caravan/trailer/mobile home for occupation as their primary residence on official halting sites.
Following the pilot Caravan Loan Schemes which have been operating since 2021, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is introducing a National Preferential Caravan Loan Scheme for Travellers, under Section 25 of the Traveller Accommodation Act 1998.
Full details
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AsIAm Launches 2025 Report Revealing Deep Inequalities for Autistic People in Ireland
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AsIAm, Ireland’s Autism Charity – has launched its Same Chance Report 2025, revealing a concerning regression in access to vital supports and services for individuals and families. This annual report captures the experiences of over 1,400 Autistic people and their families, revealing ongoing exclusion and systemic failures across education, healthcare, and community life.
86% of respondents say they still do not have the same chance as non-Autistic people in Irish society – citing long waiting lists, discrimination, lack of support, and financial pressure as key barriers.
Full details
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Community Connect is Ireland’s first national ‘Baby Bank,’ providing essential support to pregnant mothers and vulnerable families struggling to care for their babies.
With five hubs across Ireland, Dublin, Athlone, Galway, Cork, and Kilkenny, they distribute baby essentials through referrals from social workers, health professionals, and community organisations. The Kilkenny hub serves Kilkenny, Carlow, Laois, and parts of Tipperary as part of the Child & Family Support Network.
Their website accepts referrals and donations of pre-loved baby items, helping families in need while reducing waste.
Learn more: communityconnect.ie
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The Decision Support Service
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The Decision Support Service (DSS), in collaboration with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, is celebrating the registration of over 3,000 decision support arrangements on the MyDSS online portal. These arrangements help people plan for the future, with ages of registrants ranging from 26 to 100. A major milestone has been reached, with 2,000 Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs) officially registered - out of these, 2,000 are EPAs, which allow individuals to appoint someone they trust to make decisions on their behalf if they become unable to do so.
Full report
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Involvement Centres are peer led recovery focused spaces which offer a warm welcoming place in which mental health and addiction challenges are understood to be part of life and are accepted in a non-judgemental way.
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The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) are bringing together a powerful group of people dedicated to making Carlow a dementia-inclusive county. They hope to raise awareness to challenge the stigma, myths and misconceptions around dementia by opening the channels of communication and removing the barriers to change.
The Dementia Inclusive Community are based in Bethany House, Carlow.
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TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow is a transport company and operate two different types of services RRS and Door to Door.
To make a booking or register as a passenger for our Door to Door services call 0818 42 41 41.
The TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow provide bus services in Carlow, Kilkenny, Tipperary and Wicklow, and to schools in Kilkenny.
On many of these services, passengers are booked on demand.
Local Link Website
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Below is the schedule of suicide prevention, intervention, and bereavement training, available through the HSE Regional Suicide Resource Office.
Also, see the timeline for upcoming campaigns supported by the Connecting for Life Regional Mental Health Promotion and Suicide Prevention Working Group, with details on how to get involved.
> Suicide Prevention Training Feb - July 2025
> Timeline of Events 2025
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EU Funding for International Aid & Development
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Are you a civil society organisation working in international aid and development cooperation but don’t know where to start with EU funding?
This free online event will introduce you to key EU funding programmes and outline steps to seize opportunities.
If you would like to attend please contact Fiona at fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie to book.
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Connected Communities Fund 2025-2028
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The Connected Communities Fund is a three-year fund that aims to build inclusive and resilient communities and strengthen social cohesion across Ireland.
This €1.5 million fund is created by Rethink Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development via the Dormant Accounts Fund.
The new fund is open to organisations dedicated to scaling innovations that strengthen civil society, build community cohesion and empower communities to develop solutions that work for all.
Full details
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Non-Mainstream Music Education Bursary Scheme
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The purpose of the Non-Mainstream Music Education Bursary Scheme is to provide support to established, smaller-scale, non-mainstream music education or community music initiatives with limited or no access to other forms of public funding, through a cash grant.
Grants can be used to purchase instruments, other equipment and tuition. Grants are not intended for use on capital expenditure such as structural or building costs.
Full details
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Streetscape Enhancement Scheme 2025
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Carlow County Council is delighted to invite both business owners and residential and commercial property owners to participate in the 2025 County Carlow Streetscape Enhancement Scheme. This initiative aims to support the enhancement of our local streetscapes, helping to create more vibrant and visually appealing spaces for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.
Whether you own a business or a residential property, this is your opportunity to improve the appearance of your premises with financial assistance for eligible upgrades. The scheme offers funding to support a variety of enhancements.
Closing date: Friday 11th April 2025
Full details
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Children & Young Peoples Services Carlow (CYPSC) Funding
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Young Ireland and Healthy Ireland funding is now open to applications for proposed projects for 2025.
Please send any applications for funding to aisling.dollard@tusla.ie. Aisling is available to provide information regarding any questions you may have on the application process.
For any application enquiries Carlow CYPSC Co-ordinator Aisling Dollard, aisling.dollard@tusla.ie or call 0867900165.
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Rethink Ireland: Brighter Futures Fund 2025-2028
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The Brighter Futures Fund is a three-year fund aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing for marginalised groups in Ireland. We invite applications from projects and organisations that proactively identify mental health challenges within marginalised communities, enabling early intervention that can prevent the escalation of these issues. This fund is created by Rethink Ireland in partnership with an anonymous donor and the Department of Rural and Community Development via the Dormant Accounts Fund.
Full details
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Consultations, Surveys & Submissions
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AI Use and Needs in Nonprofits
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How are nonprofits using AI? Carmichael Ireland want to hear from you!
UCD students are collaborating with Carmichael to explore how nonprofits engage with AI and what support they need to integrate it effectively.
Your responses will help to develop resources and programs to assist nonprofits in leveraging AI responsibly and efficiently.
Have your say and help us support the sector!
Find out more here.
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Public Consultation Survey for New Rural Development Policy
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The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, has launched an online survey giving the public an opportunity to have their say on the next phase of Ireland’s rural development policy, Our Rural Future.
The survey is the first step in an extensive public and stakeholder consultation process which will continue throughout 2025.
The survey is open to everyone and asks participants about the opportunities and challenges facing rural Ireland, as well as what actions they think the government should consider to secure a more resilient future for rural communities.
Take the Survey
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Electoral Postering Consultation
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An Coimisiún Toghcháin (An Coimisiún), Ireland’s independent electoral commission, was established in 2023. An Coimisiún’s powers are set out in the Electoral Reform Act 2022 and include conducting or commissioning electoral research.
This research will look at the rules and practices around postering in other countries while taking account of Ireland’s particular electoral and democratic system. It will examine the existing rules in Ireland and how they work as well as the evidence regarding posters, their objectives and any advantages and disadvantages of their use.
Make your Submission here
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Launch of Public Consultation for the AC-NIR (2025) and PRTR-NIR (2025)
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The Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications launched two public consultations in relation to the environment on Friday, 7 March, 2025.
- The first relates to the National Implementation Report 2025 pursuant to Aarhus Convention (AC-NIR);
- The second relates to the National Implementation Report 2025 under the Protocol on Pollutant Release and Transfer Registers for Ireland’s National Implementation Report (PRTR-NIR)
The aim of these reports is to reflect the national implementation of the principles enshrined in the Aarhus Convention which addresses access to environmental information, public participation in environmental decision-making and access to justice in relation to environmental matters.
Full details
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Workforce Health Study -
Study Purpose: Evaluating the Health and Economic Impact of a Digital Health Intervention Using Wearable Technology
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This study aims to determine whether real-time health information from wearable technology, combined with support from online applications and on-site health screening, can influence behavioural lifestyle changes that improve health outcomes. Additionally, it will assess the economic impact of this intervention on health management.
“The outcome and economic evaluation of a health screening and digital therapeutics
intervention in the workplace.”
PARTICIPANT INFORMATION SHEET
TAKE THE SURVEY HERE
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Traveller Culture Awareness Training (TCAT)
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The TCAT programme aims to improve Travellers’ health though the provision of education and awareness raising on Traveller culture and issues, to health service staff and other public service staff so to make their services more accessible and thus have an impact on Traveller health outcomes. There is no fee to take part in the training. Certification of Attendance, Traveller Health Sticker are provided on completion for display within services.
Full details and Application
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Free Webinar: Charities Amendment Act 2024
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As part of the National Training Fund (NTF) 2025 Programme, Carmichael is hosting a free NTF webinar on “Charities Amendment Act 2024” with Andrea Shupinski.
This 50 minute webinar will include:
- Overview of the key areas of change
- No change until Commencement orders have been rolled ouCommencement orders so far
- CRA Guidance documents
- Charities Amendment Act 2024 – An Overview of the key changes for the charity sector
- Overview of the proposed Charity Financial Accounting Regulations and SORP
Date: 10th April 2025, 1.05 pm - 1.55 pm
Register here
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PPN Stakeholder Training | Social Justice Ireland
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Social Justice Ireland (SJI) is an independent think tank and advocacy group dedicated to improving lives and communities. They provide unbiased social analysis and develop evidence-based policies to build a sustainable future for everyone. Their work is guided by a strong commitment to human rights and the common good.
They offer PPN Stakeholder Training to support and strengthen Public Participation Networks (PPNs). This training helps PPN members, representatives, and stakeholders engage effectively in local decision-making processes.
What the Training Covers:
- Understanding PPNs – The role, structure, and purpose of PPNs in local governance.
- Effective Representation – Skills and strategies for PPN representatives to advocate for their communities.
- Policy & Decision-Making – How local policies are developed and how PPNs can influence them.
Collaboration & Engagement – Building strong relationships with local authorities and other stakeholders.
SJI’s training ensures that PPN members have the knowledge and confidence to contribute meaningfully to social and policy change at the local level.
Register for Training here
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What is the Local Community Development Committee and How Do You Use It?
An introduction to the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC)
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An introduction for current and aspiring Public Participation Network Representatives
Join the Irish Environmental Network (IEN) and the Environmental Pillar from on April 14th at 7.30pm to hear from Kelley Bermingham, Dublin City PPN Representative on the Local Community Development Company (LCDC).
Kelley is the Community Officer at St. Patrick's Cathedral, and has served on the LCDC since 2019.
Kelley will share her knowledge and experience from her time on the LCDC. There will be lots of time for questions and discussion at this event, so it is perfect for anyone who is thinking of taking a role on the Local Community Development Committee, or who is a newly appointed PPN Representative.
All are welcome, please share this event with other PPN Members and anyone who may be interested in attending.
When: April 14th, 7.30pm
Where: Online
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/A81GCVbJRCCUyHgEv6ib1Q
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Applications Now Open for Pride of Place 2025
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Carlow County Council is pleased to announce the opening of applications for Pride of Place 2025. Applications are invited from Residents Associations, Tidy Towns and Village Groups and Community Projects across the County who are engaged in or intending to engage in works to that will create long lasting impact in their communities.
These applications will be judged on community inter-generational involvement, biodiversity, aesthetics of the area, use of colour and protection of wildlife and flora.
Info
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In the lead-up to the Pan Celtic Festival, a quick and easy quiz is available to get everyone in the spirit!
Participants only need to answer three simple multiple-choice questions - no pressure, just a bit of fun and a chance to win a €100 voucher to use at Lennon’s, Teach Dolmain, or Brooks/Dinn Ri. All correct entries will be entered into a draw, with the winner chosen at random - giving everyone an equal chance to win.
Festival Programmes are available at the Carlow Tourism Office on College Street.
For more details about the Pan Celtic Festival, visit www.panceltic.ie.
Entering takes just a minute, so why not give it a try? A delicious treat could be waiting!
Enter the Competition here
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*Please click on the posters for a fuller image...
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