View in Browser: Volume 11 - Issue 3- Carlow Public Participation Network Members E-Bulletin, March 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 March 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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Carlow PPN welcome new Secretariat members: Joe Butler, Jackie Meally, Ian Sewell and Caroline Dargan.
Carlow PPN Secretariat provides a coordinating and oversight function for the PPN.
PPN Secretariats in Ireland are the administrative teams that support the work of the Public Participation Networks. Every local authority (county or city council) has a PPN, which is a network that helps community groups, voluntary organisations, and social enterprises have a voice in local government decisions.
The PPN Secretariat is a group of elected volunteers from member organisations who oversee the running of the PPN and ensure the PPN operates effectively and consistently, aligning with the goals and priorities outlined in the Strategic Plan. They regularly review progress, address any gaps, and support continuous improvement.
New member induction is ongoing.
Visit our website
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Understanding the Legislative Process and Effective Communications
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Implementation Roadmap Working Group
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The Implementation Roadmap Working Group (Draft) was initially developed as a follow-up to the Public Participation Network (PPN) Structural Review that was carried out in 2021/2022, and further refined following a consultation process with PPN stakeholders.
It is to guide future development and enable PPNs to best fulfil the objectives set out for them in the 2014 Report on Citizen Engagement with Local Government.
Carlow PPN sit on this working group and endeavour to:
• Consider the operation of the PPN network to date
• Identify opportunities for further strengthening of PPNs
• Make recommendations for the future development of PPNs
• Consider the impact of the supports provided to PPNs by DRCD, Local Authorities, and other sources to enable PPNs to fulfil their purpose effectively.
Implementation Roadmap Working Group (Draft) can be viewed here
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Grow It Yourself (GIY) project at Bagenalstown Community Garden
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Carlow PPN were delighted to join the Bagenalstown Community Garden group on Monday, 24th February, for the filming of a Grow It Yourself (GIY) video, highlighting The Role of Gardening in Education and Community Building.
Tucked behind the Parochial House (opposite Bagenalstown Country Store, Eircode R21 TD61), the Bagenalstown Community Garden is a thriving hub of creativity and connection.
This special event was a true celebration of community spirit, as local primary school students enthusiastically took part in planting the garden beds. We were also treated to a tour of the garden's many fantastic developments, with thanks to Tommy for sharing his time and knowledge.
GIY Website
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Introduction to Strategic Policy Committees
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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
Dates of next SPC meetings:
- LCDC Meeting - March 11th, 2025
- Carlow Tourism Meeting - March 12th, 2025
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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We are thrilled to welcome our new representatives to Carlow Public Participation Network! Your roles as community leaders and advocates for participative democracy are vital in driving positive change. Your commitment to participation, community, and voluntary efforts will play a key role in building a more inclusive and collaborative environment for all.
We are very excited to have you on board and look forward to working together to strengthen our communities and create meaningful impact - we’re so glad to have you with us!
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Who is representing your community? Newly Elected PPN Representatives
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Introducing the new PPN Representatives:
- Jackie Meally - Community & Voluntary, Transportation, Environment, Emergency Services and Capital Projects SPC
- Trish Doyle - Social Inclusion, Community Development, Recreation, Amenity, Sports, Arts & Culture, Libraries, Museum, Heritage SPC
- Amanda Shasha - Community & Voluntary, Housing and Integration SPC,
- Aisling O’Halloran - Community & Voluntary, Community Development, Recreation, Amenity, Sports, Arts & Culture, Libraries, Museum, Heritage SPC
Visit YOUR Representatives page
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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 Programme 2025
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Climate change is a major challenge and opportunity for tourism businesses. Rising costs make reducing carbon emissions a smart way to save money and improve your reputation.
Bord Failtes Climate Action Programme helps tourism businesses cut costs, improve efficiency, and reduce environmental impact. Fully funded by Fáilte Ireland, it provides a personal Adviser to assess your business and offer tailored advice, helping you create an action plan and access funding opportunities.
Submit your interest
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Become a Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Advocate
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Are you a positive change maker contributing to a more sustainable world?
The 2025 SDG Advocate Training is a 7-month project that offers 23 Adult and Community Educators an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through Global Citizenship Education and be supported in the design and implementation of informed SDG Action Project within their practice.
Apply here
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- Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
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The new CAP supports agriculture and communities in making a much stronger contribution to the goals of the Green Deal. CAP plans will be in line with environmental and climate legislation. Each EU country will be obliged to display a higher ambition on environment and climate action and will be required to update the plan when legislation is modified.
Join here
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- Forestry Knowledge Transfer Group (KTG) Scheme 2025 Opens
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The Forestry Knowledge Transfer Group (KTG) Scheme is now open for 2025. The aim of the Forestry KTG Scheme is to increase the level of forest management activity amongst forest owners and gain additional knowledge to help them gain expertise in managing their forest over its lifetime. This will include the importance of forests for climate change mitigation and their adaptation and resilience against weather events. This is the sixth iteration of the Forestry KTG Scheme.
Full details
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An Taisce National Spring Clean Day
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Registrations for National Spring Clean 2025 are now open.
Great to see community groups coming out for An Taisce National Spring Clean. This is Ireland’s most popular, well recognised and successful anti-litter initiative. Taking place during the whole month of March and April and now going for over 25 years, 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.
Get you Litter Picking Kits from An Tasice here
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Top Ten Ways to Help Pollinators
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The All-Ireland Pollinator Plan’s top ten evidence-based actions that you can take to help our declining wild pollinators. There are simple ways everyone can help, whether you have a business, a farm, a community group, a garden, or a window box. On the All Ireland Pollinator Plan website you will find information about their work and campaigns, and free resources to help you learn more about our different pollinators and what you can do to help them.
You’ll also find links to information about how you can help pollinators every month, what plants they visit and which species you might spot.
Watch the Top Ten Actions for Pollinators video, which takes you through each of the recommendations.
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Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Update
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We all waste food for various reasons: buying too much, over-preparing, changing plans, or leftovers spoiling. While it may not seem like much day-to-day, food waste adds up, costing you money and harming the planet. No matter your situation, there are always ways to reduce waste. To help, we've gathered tips on planning, shopping, storage, cooking, and managing food waste with children or when cooking for one.
More information
Stop Food Waste Day 2025
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Over €1m in Grants Awarded for Water Quality Projects Nationwide
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The Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) is awarding €1,047,265.26 to 54 projects in 24 counties under the ‘Community Water Development Fund Open Call 2025.’ This funding supports local communities and groups in enhancing water quality and biodiversity.
Since 2018, LAWPRO has allocated over €3.7 million through this scheme on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, aiding the implementation of the Water Framework Directive. Annual funding has grown from €185,800 in 2018 to over €1 million in 2025.
Full details
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Open Call: Cruinniú 2025 – Carlow Through Our Eyes
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Are you 14-18 and curious about filmmaking or theatre?
Join Carlow Youth Theatre for Cruinniú 2025: Carlow Through Our Eyes – A Youth Film-Theatre Experience!
May 19th – June 7th (Mondays & Saturdays) - Carlow
Explore storytelling through theatre and film, capture Carlow from your perspective, and try something new, no experience needed!
Limited places, so sign up here
Email: countycarlowyouththeatre@gmail.com
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Great to see Tullow Mens Sheds on the front cover of the Irish Mens Sheds Association Newsletter!
The Irish Mens Shed Association mission is to support the development of the burgeoning men’s sheds movement in Ireland. As a grassroots organisation, they believe strongly in the autonomy of each individual shed, as they strive for a future in which all men have the opportunity to maintain and improve their well-being on their own terms and within their own communities.
News from the Men's Sheds
Tullow Mens Shed Association
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Social Prescribing Day - March 19th, 2025
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Social Prescribing is a free HSE-funded service that offers information and support to help individuals socially engage in the community.
Call/text to make an appointment with Kira today 086-4147511 or or email socialprescribing@catherines.ie
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Domestic Violence + Coercive Control Training for Professionals
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Who is this training for: Professionals from services working in Kilkenny and Carlow who want to learn more about supporting women who are or have experienced domestic violence + coercive control.
Book your spot
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Mental Health and Family Caring
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This programme is being run as a partnership with Mental Health Ireland, Family Carers Ireland, the HSE Family Peer Support Workers, and the Recovery College South East.
The AIM of the programme is to support family members in building skills to look after their own wellbeing whilst supporting someone living with a mental health challenge
To help us do this we will have an interactive five weeks together where we will share skills and experiences.
By the end of this workshop participants will have:
- Had time to reflect on and build tools and techniques for self-care
- Expanded understanding of mental health, wellbeing and recovery
- Had an opportunity to learn about and practice communication skills
- Increased awareness around their boundaries and personal wellbeing when supporting another
Bookings - mrecoverycollegesoutheast@gmail.com or 086 1746330
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Real Talk: Disabled People, By Disabled People
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Join Independent Living Movement Ireland (ILMI) for a powerful series of discussions led by disabled people, for disabled people. No jargon, no fluff, just practical, honest conversations about what matters.
These sessions are about more than just talk. They are about learning from each other, sharing experiences, and finding new ways to push for the change that are needed. Whether you are new to activism or have been fighting for disability rights for years, this space is for you.
Register now by emailing info@ilmi.ie
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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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Coca-Cola Thank You Fund 2025 Applications Now Open
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A fund of €200,000 will be available to support community-based projects and programmes across Ireland and Northern Ireland that are focused on cultivating inclusive communities by empowering young people aged 16-25 to become skilled and engaged citizens under the pillars of inclusion and inspiration.
The two categories are:
- Inclusion: Empowering young people through education and employability and
- Inspiration: Supporting young people to take positive action to create a better society.
Full details
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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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Creative Ireland Rambling House Open Call 2025
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Rambling Houses historically were popular in communities all across Ireland. They were a place where the locals would gather to be entertained, educated and informed and included evenings filled with music, songs, dancing, stories and side splitting laughs!
To this day, Rambling Houses celebrate and cherish the people of County Carlow through folklore and traditional art forms.
You are invited to submit proposals for the Creative Ireland Rambling House Grant Scheme 2025 as part of the Creative Ireland Carlow Programme.
Proposals can include any and all creative activities, performances, readings, workshops etc. taking place as part of a Rambling House.
Full details
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RTÉ Toy Show Appeal Fund Opens for Applications
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The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal is now open for its fifth year of grant making to improve the lives of children and their families by funding essential support, health, wellbeing, play, and creativity initiatives. Over €26m has been raised over the past five years.
Since the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal was first launched in 2020 it has provided 486 grants to registered children’s charities and organisations across the island of Ireland and helped an estimated 1.1 million children and family members in Ireland annually with the monies raised.
Full application details
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Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund
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The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth invites applications to an Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund call for proposals.
A maximum of €1.5m will be made available to one or more organisations to provide rehabilitative services and other supports for survivors of torture residing in Ireland.
Minimum grant amount of €495,000, over 1-2 years, under Ireland’s national programme for the EU Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (AMIF).
Full details
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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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Entrepreneurship Impact Fund – Strand 3
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The Entrepreneurship Impact Fund 2023-2026 is a three-year fund, supported by a private donor, which aims to have impact across three strands:
- Strand 1: The Social Innovation Growth and Scaling Fund (launched November 2023)
- Strand 2: Youth Entrepreneurship Incubators (launched December 2024)
- Strand 3: The Minority Entrepreneurship Fund (launched January 2025)
This open call covers Strand 3, worth a total of €900,000, and is open for applications via the online portal until the 21st March 2025.
Full details
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Consultations, Surveys & Submissions
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Submission: Further Education & Training (FET) Strategy 2025-2029
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The National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) is a registered charity and membership-based organization funded by SOLAS to support the Further Education and Training and Adult Literacy for Life strategies. They believe literacy is a human right and everyone in Ireland should have the opportunity to develop literacy, numeracy, and digital skills to fully participate in society. Their mission is to:
- Campaign for literacy as a human right
- Lead and promote best literacy practice
- Support organisations in becoming literacy-friendly
NALA welcomes the chance to contribute to the public consultation on the Further Education and Training (FET) Strategy 2025-2029.
More details
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Queen of the Universe, Safe Routes to School Scheme - Part 8 Process
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Carlow County Council plans to make safety improvements to help students walk safely to the Queen of the Universe National School on Long Range Road, Bagenalstown.
As part of the Safe Routes to School programme, they will create a "School Zone" in front of the school. This will help make drivers more aware of children and others walking in the area.
A submission or observation with respect to the proposed development can be made here
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Find information on public consultations held by government departments and local authorities. This consultations portal is in beta and not yet complete with all consultations.
Access Consultations on Gov.ie here
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Carlow win Best Community Wellbeing Initiative in Ireland
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A Carlow initiative supporting the health, safety, and wellbeing of the local farming community has been named the overall winner of an All-Ireland competition.
The Carlow Farmer Wellbeing project took the top prize at the LAMA (Local Authority Members Association) Community and Council Awards, held recently.
Nominated by Cllr Andrea Dalton, the initiative was created to address the specific health, safety, and wellbeing challenges faced by Carlow’s farming community, providing tailored services, advice, and supports to promote mental health, physical wellbeing, and self-care on farms.
Full Press Release
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Community Roots Programme a Resounding Success
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The Community Roots Programme continues to make a significant impact, equipping young people with essential leadership skills and hands-on community engagement experience. The initiative, in collaboration with Carlow County Council, Carlow Regional Youth Services, Carlow Sports Partnership, and County Carlow Development Partnership, has engaged young people across Carlow in a dynamic and interactive programme designed to shape future leaders.
Read more
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*Please click on the posters for a fuller image...
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