Volume 11 - Issue 11 - Carlow Public Participation Network Members E-Bulletin, November 2025
|
|
|
Influencing the Decisions That Shape Your Community!
Community & Voluntary ~ Social Inclusion ~ Environment
|
|
|
Welcome to our November eBulletin
We invite you to share this edition with members of your group
so everyone stays up to date and well informed.
This is also a great opportunity to highlight and promote your group’s activities -
don’t miss the chance to get involved!
For submissions or queries, please contact Fiona at fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie or carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie.
|
|
|
|
|
National PPN Report: Building Community Resilience for Times of Emergency
|
Carlow Public Participation Network (PPN) is pleased to share the newly published National PPN Report – Building Community Resilience for Times of Emergency.
Launched at the 2025 National PPN Conference (hosted by Meath PPN and Meath County Council), the report was developed through a national survey and workshop, coordinated by Laois, Leitrim, and Tipperary PPNs, and funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD).
The report highlights the vital role of PPNs in emergency response, community support, and resilience building across Ireland. It also shares key learnings and recommendations to strengthen preparedness at local and national levels.
For Carlow, the findings reinforce the PPN’s role in:
✅ Supporting emergency planning and communication
✅ Connecting community groups with statutory bodies
✅ Influencing policy on climate, wellbeing, and inclusion
✅ Strengthening local capacity to respond in times of need
Carlow PPN will continue to work closely with Carlow County Council and local stakeholders to put these recommendations into action and enhance community resilience.
Read the booklet here: Building Community Resilience for Times of Emergency
|
|
|
|
|
National PPN Conference 2025
|
The Public Participation Network (PPN) National Conference took place at the Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim, County Meath, on October 16 -17, 2025.
Day one began with registration and opening addresses from the Department of Rural and Community Development & the Gaelteacht (DRCDG), Meath Public Participation Network (MPPN), and Meath County Council (MCC). This was followed by a workshop on misinformation led by Ciaran O’Connor from the Hope and Courage Collective.
The afternoon featured the launch and discussion of the Resilient Communities report, lunch, and a series of excursions focusing on heritage, biodiversity, social inclusion, and community and voluntary engagement, alongside in-house networking and communications training.
The evening included a pre-dinner reception with entertainment, a ministerial address, a gala dinner, and after-dinner entertainment.
Day two opened with a session on collaboration between communities, Meath PPN, and Meath County Council, highlighting the Trim Tidy Towns Circular Economy Strategy. This was followed by workshops on natural habitats, community mapping, podcasting, and family support, with feedback sessions and closing remarks before lunch and departure.
The conference successfully fostered collaboration, shared learning, and strengthened networks to support resilient and inclusive communities across Ireland.
|
|
|
|
|
Manage Scams and Common Type of Fraud Awareness
|
Stay Alert. Stay Safe. Cybercrime is Real!
Join us, Carlow PPN, for an online Fraud Awareness session with the Crime Prevention Officer from An Garda Síochána. Learn about the different types of fraud and how you can protect yourself.
Date: Wednesday, 10th December 2025
Time:1 PM
Location: Zoom
Don’t miss this chance to gain practical tips, ask questions, and stay safe online!
Queries & bookings: carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie
Tel: 087 195 1444
Book here
|
|
|
|
|
Agenda and Minute Taking Workshop
|
We are please to let you know we have organised a new session for the Agenda and Minute Taking workshop which will take place on:
- Date: Tuesday 4th Nov. 2025
- Time: 2pm – 4pm
- Location: Seven Oaks Hotel
Please let us know if you would like to attend and I will reserve you a place – numbers limited to 8 per workshop.
Book here
|
|
|
Strategic Policy Committees in Local Government
|
|
|
|
|
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, we recommend visiting the official website of your local authority or contacting them directly - Carlow County Council Website
Local authorities regularly update their websites with information pertinent to SPC activities and public participation opportunities.
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
Carlow PPN made a submission to the Public Consultation on the
Carlow Local Authority Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) Scheme.
You can access Carlow PPNs Submission here
|
|
|
Dates of SPC & other committee meetings for November 2025:
- LCDC: 11 November, 2.30pm - 4.30pm
- Carlow Tourism: 12 November, 4pm - 5:30pm
- Transportation, Environment, Emergency Services & Capital Projects SPC Meeting: 26 November, 3pm - 5pm
If you would like to bring any issues or concerns to our PPN Representatives, that sit on these committees, please email carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie
|
|
|
Carlow PPN Representatives appointed to the new Carlow Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP)
|
Carlow Public Participation Network (PPN) is delighted to announce the nomination of three representatives to the newly established Carlow Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP)
The PPN representatives are:
- Caroline Dargan - Carlow Municipal District
- John Kelly - Tullow Municipal District
- Mary Redmond - Bagenalstown Municipal District
The Local Community Safety Partnership is a new structure introduced under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. The Act aims to promote a broader, more collaborative approach to community safety - recognising that safety is not solely the responsibility of An Garda Síochána, but a shared effort involving local authorities, public services, community groups, and residents.
Each LCSP brings together representatives from statutory agencies, the Gardaí, local government, and the community and voluntary sectors to identify local priorities and develop a Community Safety Plan tailored to the specific needs of the county.
Through their involvement, the PPN representatives will ensure that the voices and experiences of community groups across Carlow are heard in shaping local safety and wellbeing initiatives.
Carlow PPN warmly congratulates Caroline, John, and Mary on their appointments and thanks them for their commitment to representing the community sector in this important new partnership.
For more information on Carlow PPN and the work of the Local Community Safety Partnership, please visit www.pcsa.ie and www.carlowppn.ie
|
|
|
Follow us on our socials - for current, relevant local & national news @carlowppn
|
|
|
|
|
Please avail of the opportunity to advertise in our monthly eBulletin.
Email/call Fiona on 087 276 0139/059 9136288
fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie
|
|
|
|
|
Eco Chats Episode 3: “Sheds” is out now!
|
In this episode, host Alan Swan meets Frank Morris (Tullow Men’s Shed) and Bernie Patterson (Bosum Buddies – Carlow Women’s Shed) to explore how community sheds tackle isolation, repair what’s broken, and help people rediscover purpose. From restoring heritage pieces to making “twiddle muffs” for Alzheimer’s patients, these spaces show that sustainability is about renewal, connection, and keeping local skills alive.
Listen on:
Produced by Carlow County Council in association with Creative Ireland, Eco Chats highlights Carlow’s inspiring environmental actions and the people driving them.
|
|
|
|
|
Eco-labels” lead shoppers to choose more sustainable clothes
|
Clothing production contributes to water pollution, microplastic waste, and greenhouse gas emissions, yet consumers often lack information on these impacts. A study with 1,200 Irish adults tested whether eco-labels—simple or A–E “eco-score” labels—could encourage more sustainable shopping choices in an online store.
Download Eco-labels shift consumers to more sustainable clothing choices
|
|
|
|
|
A Decarbonising Zone (DZ) is a local, community-led approach to reducing emissions and improving quality of life. Each DZ is tailored to its area, addressing issues such as transport, energy, buildings, infrastructure, fuel poverty, skills, and the circular economy to help Ireland meet its climate goals.
We're Taking Climate Action - Innovation in Carlow Decarbonising Zone Video
|
|
|
|
|
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) & Climate Action Updates
|
|
|
|
|
Community Roots Programme
|
Community Roots is a free Youth Leadership Programme for 16–18-year-olds in Carlow and Tullow, running 29 Nov – 11 Dec. Delivered by Carlow Regional Youth Service, Carlow County Council, County Carlow Development Partnership, and Active Carlow, the six-week programme equips participants with certified training in First Aid, Manual Handling, Child Protection, Leadership, and Team Building, plus meetings with community leaders.
Young people will receive a certificate and reference on completion.
Spaces are limited—interested participants can apply via the QR code or here
|
|
|
|
|
The Empowering Entrepreneurs Initiative
|
The Empowering Entrepreneurs 50+ initiative offers people over 50 the chance to re-imagine their future, unlock their potential, and prove that starting something new later in life is not just possible but powerful. The Bootcamp is only 1.5 days and designed to support individuals aged 50 and over who are eager to transform their business idea into reality. All participants will have a chance to compete for a prize fund of €2,000.
Book here
|
|
|
|
|
Farming for a Better Climate 2025: Practical and Emerging Solutions Conference
|
Join leading experts, researchers, and farmers to explore practical solutions and new technologies for climate-smart, sustainable farming. The event will share strategies to cut emissions, boost biodiversity, and improve farm profitability through innovation and collaboration.
Key themes: Carbon farming, sustainable Irish products, AgNav digital platform, carbon footprinting of grains, methane reduction, forestry’s role in emissions targets, latest research, and an interactive workshop.
Register for Conference here
|
|
|
|
|
Nigerian Community in Carlow marks Nigeria’s Independence with Environmental Stewardship Initiative
|
Carlow, Ireland – October 4, 2025 – The Nigerian Community in Carlow celebrated Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day with a community clean-up and tree planting in partnership with the Carlow Tidy Towns Initiative.
The event brought together families, community leaders, and local partners to promote unity, sustainability, and gratitude to the wider Carlow community.
Chairperson Mr. Ismail Ayodele described the initiative as both a celebration of independence and a gesture of appreciation, reflecting shared values of cooperation and community pride.
Commemorative trees were planted at the Seven Oaks Hotel Garden, symbolising unity, sustainability, and the community’s deepening roots in Ireland.
|
|
|
|
|
National Women’s Council: Report 'Our Health, Our Voices
|
A National Women’s Council report highlights that Ireland’s healthcare system continues to leave some marginalised women behind. Migrant, Roma, Traveller, disabled, and LGBTQ+ women report barriers including lack of GP access, inaccessible facilities, and experiences of discrimination, leaving many feeling excluded despite recent improvements in women’s healthcare.
More Information
|
|
|
|
|
The National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030
|
The National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025–2030 outlines Ireland’s plan to implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It aims to promote the rights, dignity, and full inclusion of disabled people, supporting them to live empowered lives of their own choosing.
Click here for more information
|
|
|
|
|
Belong To – LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland: 2024 Annual Report
|
In 2024, Belong To faced unprecedented challenges, including coordinated campaigns targeting its services for LGBTQ+ youth. Their Annual Report details how the organisation continued supporting LGBTQ+ young people across Ireland, steadfast in its mission to provide safe, affirming spaces where they can belong and thrive.
Read the full report here
|
|
|
|
|
Saolta - Making spACE for Justice
|
Amid global challenges, Adult and Community Education in Ireland is fostering spaces of hope, solidarity, and justice.
Making spACE for Justice is an in-person national gathering for educators, activists, and community leaders to explore how learning communities can drive transformative action. Sessions will cover racism, global legal issues, and disinformation, featuring experts like Fionnuala Ní Aoláin and Aisling Meyer (AONTAS).
Participants can connect with changemakers, engage in meaningful discussions, and help shape a more just and equitable future.
Further reading and to book
|
|
|
|
|
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
|
|
|
TFI Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow is dedicated to providing essential transport services to the rural areas of Carlow, Kilkenny, and Wicklow. Our reliable and efficient services aim to connect communities and ensure transportation access for all.
Website: ckwlocallink
|
|
Health Services Executive (HSE)
|
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
|
|
|
|
|
Community Climate Action Programme
|
|
|
|
|
Music Capital Scheme 2025
|
Music Network has announced the launch of the Music Capital Scheme 2025, offering a total of €1,040,000 in funding for the purchase of musical instruments and selected equipment. The scheme is open to individual professional musicians and non-professional groups across Ireland, through three awards:
- Award 1: Non-professional performing groups
- Award 2: Established professional musicians
- Award 3: Emerging professional musicians
Applications are open until 2pm, Thursday 27 November 2025. Further details are available on the Music Network website: Music Capital Scheme.
Music Network is providing a range of free applicant supports, including online information sessions, seminars on recording, artistic planning, and application skills, as well as limited one-to-one consultations. More information can be found here: Applicant Support Sessions.
Organisations and individuals are encouraged to share this information widely. A social media pack with graphics and suggested posts is available via Dropbox; alternative access can be arranged if needed.
For further information, contact Music Network directly.
|
|
|
|
|
St Stephen’s Green Trust: Funding Opportunity
|
Open Call: Civil Society in Ireland – North and South: Rooting Active Democracy
Funding: €90,000 / £78,000 | Deadline: 18:00, 14 Nov 2025
St Stephen’s Green Trust invites expressions of interest for a major grant to lead an island-wide action-research programme aimed at strengthening shared values, solidarity, and collective power across Ireland.
Full details of the programme, including objectives and eligibility criteria, are available here: Criteria and Guidelines for Applicants. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to reach out to SSGT before submitting an Expression of Interest. To discuss your organisation’s eligibility or proposal, please contact: Sara Stokes, Grants and Development Manager sara@ssgt.ie
|
|
|
Consultations, Surveys & Submissions
|
|
|
|
|
Public Consultation on Public Community Safety Authority (PCSA) Strategy 2026-28
|
The Policing and Community Safety Authority (PCSA), established in April 2025, has published its draft Strategy Statement for 2026–2028 and is inviting feedback through a 30-day public consultation.
Deadline: Sunday, 2 November 2025
Access: Draft strategy and consultation form available on the PCSA website (in English and Irish).
This is an opportunity for community and voluntary groups to share views that will shape policing and community safety in Ireland. The PCSA oversees policing and works with the new Local Community Safety Partnerships (LCSPs) created under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024.
Carlow PPN recently elected three representatives to the LCSP to ensure local voices are heard.
For questions, contact Helen Hall (Chief Executive) or Mark Nother at mark.nother@pcsaireland.ie. Carlow PPN members can request a facilitated consultation by calling 059 91 72 495 / 087 195 1444 or emailing carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie.
|
|
|
|
|
Public Consultation on the Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2028
|
The Programme for Government commits to ending the take-make-consume-throwaway cycle, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting circular economy enterprises, including repair and refurbishment centres. Ireland is well placed to harness the transformative potential of a circular economy, future-proofing the nation environmentally, economically, and socially.
Public Consultation: Whole-of-Government Circular Economy Strategy 2026–2028
Closes: 5 Nov 2025, 5:30pm
Submit here
|
|
|
|
|
Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS).
|
RESS is the government's main mechanism to deliver new grid-scale renewable electricity generation capacity. RESS provides support to renewable electricity projects through competitive auctions, ensuring that consumers and businesses benefit from renewable generation at the lowest possible cost.
More details
|
|
|
|
|
PPN Research on Challenges experienced by community & voluntary organisations
|
This survey aims to collect the evidence needed to highlight and stress to Government the challenges faced by community groups. It also aims to demonstrate that additional
supports are needed for groups to operate successfully and thrive.
More and more is being asked of the community sector, including taking a leading role on climate action. How do we make this workable?
Take part in the Survey here or scan the QR code in poster
|
|
|
|
|
Introduction to Local Government in Ireland
|
See Her Elected (SHE) offers free online election workshops designed to make running for office practical and accessible. Participants receive a list of 50 essential steps and the foundational knowledge to build a campaign, plus early access to the See Her Elected Guide for the 2029 Local Elections (available Nov 2025).
Online November 11th - Book here
|
|
|
|
|
Manage Scams and Common Type of Fraud Awareness
|
Stay Alert. Stay Safe. Cybercrime is Real!
Join us, Carlow PPN, for an online Fraud Awareness session with the Crime Prevention Officer from An Garda Síochána. Learn about the different types of fraud and how you can protect yourself.
Date: Wednesday, 10th December 2025
Time:1 PM
Location: Zoom
Don’t miss this chance to gain practical tips, ask questions, and stay safe online!
Queries & bookings: carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie
Tel: 087 195 1444
Book here
|
|
|
|
|
Expression of Interest (EOI) : AI Workshop
|
We are exploring interest in running another in-person workshop: An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence.
This practical and accessible session is designed for beginners and anyone curious about AI. It will cover what AI is, how it’s used in everyday life, and what it means for communities, businesses, and individuals. No technical background is required — just curiosity.
Requirements:
- Basic computer skills
- Laptop for hands-on activities
If you or your group would like to attend a future session, please let us know by expressing your interest. Your feedback will help us decide whether to schedule another workshop.
Contact: carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie or call 059 91 72 495 / 087 195 1444
|
|
|
PPN Stakeholder Training | Social Justice Ireland
|
|
|
|
Carlow PPN would like to let all stakeholders about the self-paced training currently available, which may be of interest to you.
PPN Stakeholder Training
This online-only, self-paced training programme has been developed in collaboration with Social Justice Ireland and is now open for registration. The training is provided on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development.
The programme covers the following topics:
- Introduction to the PPNs (2 Modules)
- Local Government Budget
- PPNs and Local Government
- Effective Participation in Consultations
- Effective Facilitation
- Strategic Planning
- Measuring Outcomes and Impacts
|
|
This training is designed for self-directed learning at your own pace. While there are no scheduled classes, limited support is available via a webform on each module page.
Who Can Participate?
The training is open to the following PPN stakeholders:
- PPN Workers
- PPN Secretariat Members
- PPN Representatives
- PPN Member Groups
- Local Authority Staff
- Elected Councillors
To register, please complete the registration form at the following link:
|
|
|
|
|
Minister for Health welcomes publication of Guidance to Support Transparency of Medicines Pricing and Fees for Pharmacy Services
|
Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien has launched a public consultation on Ireland’s Social Climate Plan (2026–2032). The plan aims to support those most vulnerable to energy and transport poverty during the green transition and could secure up to €663 million from the EU Social Climate Fund for socially fair, long-term measures.
Read more here
|
|
|
|
|
Volunteers needed for Irish Girl Guides
|
Volunteers are needed for the Woodland Ladybird Unit of the Irish Girl Guides on the Killeshin Road in Carlow.
Volunteers must be available on Thursday evenings from 6:30pm to 8pm and be willing to commit to the role for at least nine months. Safeguarding and Garda Vetting apply.
Contact us for more information here
|
|
|
*Please click on the posters for a fuller image...
|
|
|
|
