Volume 11 - Issue 10 - Carlow Public Participation Network Members E-Bulletin, October 2025
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Influencing the Decisions That Shape Your Community!
Community & Voluntary ~ Social Inclusion ~ Environment
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Welcome to our October 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.
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Highlights from our Community Expo & Gathering
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Carlow Public Participation Network (PPN) hosted its Community Gathering & Expo on Thursday, 25th September at An Gairdín Beo, bringing together local community groups, environmental advocates, and residents for an afternoon of learning, sharing, and connection.
Themed “Environment – SDGs, Practices & Policies (Leave No One Behind)”, the event showcased inspiring initiatives across Carlow promoting sustainability and inclusivity.
Highlights included:
PPN updates and achievements over the past six months
- Presentation by Laura Kelly, Carlow County Council on the Community Gardens and Allotments Policy
- Story of An Gairdín Beo shared by John McHugh
- Updates on the Community Climate Action Fund by Áine Byrne
- A fascinating talk on Holy Wells by Dr. Eoin Sullivan, complemented by a poem from local poet Clifden Redmond
- HVO Fire Truck demonstration, showcasing innovative sustainability practices
The event concluded with networking, fostering connections and collaborations for future community action. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, praising the event as inspiring, informative, and energising.
The gathering reaffirmed the power of community collaboration in advancing environmental and social goals and highlighted Carlow’s strong commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Thanks to all attendees!
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Eight PPNs Join Forces for Representatives Forum and Networking Event in Kilkenny
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On Saturday, 27th September, eight Public Participation Networks (PPNs) – Carlow, Cork City, Cork County, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford, and Wicklow – came together at the Rivercourt Hotel, Kilkenny for the “Empowering and Networking for PPN Representatives” event.
The event brought together 50 PPN Representatives who serve on Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) and Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs), helping ensure that community, voluntary, social inclusion, and environmental voices are represented in local decision-making.
Participants connected, shared experiences, and explored practical tools to strengthen their roles.
Key speakers from Social Justice Ireland (SJI), Irish Environmental Network (IEN), and the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG) highlighted the impact of PPNs on local governance, with a strong message form Jake Ryan, Principal Officer for Community & Voluntary Supports and Programmes Unit (CVSP) in the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
A spokesperson noted: “This event demonstrated the commitment of PPN representatives to strengthening community voice and participation. The knowledge shared, combined with networking opportunities, will support meaningful contributions on LCDCs and SPCs.”
For further information, contact Carlow PPN at carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie
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PPNs have long highlighted pressures on the community and voluntary sector, but advocacy has been limited by a lack of evidence. Under the Power to Change initiative, Sligo PPN has partnered with Atlantic Technological University to research the key challenges facing the sector and their impact on grassroots community activity and volunteering. A survey is now open for community groups and volunteers to contribute their experiences and insights.
Take the Survey here
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Celebrating 20 Years of Carlow Volunteer Centre
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Carlow PPN was delighted to join the Carlow Volunteer Centre as they marked 20 incredible years of supporting and connecting volunteers across our community at the Seven Oaks Hotel.
The evening was full of warmth, kindness, and generosity, with volunteers from so many local groups coming together to celebrate. It was also a pleasure to welcome Minister of State Jerry Buttimer to the celebrations!
A huge congratulations to Helen, Natasha, and Sinéad for their outstanding dedication in making Carlow a more inclusive and caring place.
Here’s to the next 20 years of inspiring community spirit!
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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, 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
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Dates of SPC & other committee meetings for October 2025:
- LCDC: 14 October, 2.30pm - 4.30pm
- Planning, Economic Development, Regeneration, Finance & ICT SPC: 14 October, 3pm - 5pm
- Carlow Tourism: 15 October, 4pm - 5:30pm
If you would like to bring any issues or concerns to our PPN Representatives, that sit on these committees, please email carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie
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Follow us on our socials - for current, relevant local & national news @carlowppn
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Please avail of the opportunity to advertise in our monthly eBulletin.
Email/call Fiona on 087 276 0139/059 9136288
fbroadbery@carlowcoco.ie
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The County Carlow Environment Officer announced the launch of Carlow’s Eco Journey, an eight-part podcast series funded by Creative Ireland, available from Thursday, 9 October on major streaming platforms. Hosted by broadcaster Alan Swan, the series features local changemakers—community groups, educators, activists, and volunteers—working on conservation, heritage protection, and innovative green initiatives, highlighting Carlow’s collaborative approach to sustainability and climate action.
Carlow’s Eco Journey will be available to stream on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcasting platforms from 9th October.
Follow Carlow County Council or @carlowcountycouncil on social media for updates and links to listen in to.
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Climate Action Week 2025 - October 6th to 13th
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Carlow Climate Action Week 2025 runs from October 6th–13th, presented by Carlow County Council in collaboration with local community organisations. This week of free events encourages everyone to take simple, positive steps toward climate action. Some events require booking, so check ahead and follow our social media for updates.
As part of the programme, you can meet an energy adviser from the South East Energy Agency for personalised guidance on reducing energy use, home upgrades, and available grants.
Appointments:
- Mon 6 Oct – Tullow Library, 9:00am–1:00pm
- Tue 7 Oct – County Buildings, 9:30am–1:30pm
- Wed 8 Oct – Bagenalstown Civic Offices, 9:30am–1:30pm
To book: Roisin Hennessy – rhennessy@carlowcoco.ie 059-9136277
Thanks to all colleagues and elected members for supporting Carlow’s journey toward a more sustainable future.
Full details can be found here
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National Energy Research and Policy Conference 2025
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SEAI will host the National Energy Research and Policy Conference 2025 at the Royal Marine Hotel, Dún Laoghaire, on 9 October. With the theme “The Future of Integrated Energy Systems in Ireland”, the event will bring together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, utilities, and community representatives to discuss building a resilient, decarbonised energy future.
Register here
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Nature Restoration Law in Europe
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Following the adoption of the Nature Restoration Law in Europe in August 2024, all Member States must produce their own Nature Restoration Plan to show how they will achieve the targets set out in the regulation.
Read more
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Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Update
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Exhibition Opening of Emerging Irish and European Artists
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Breaking the Patterns opens on Saturday, 11 October 2025 (6–8pm) at GOMA Gallery, Waterford. Curated by Jenna Whelan, the exhibition features emerging Irish and European artists who completed residencies in Lisbon and Crete in 2025. Showcasing film, sculpture, photography, and painting, the works reflect the artists’ experiences abroad and explore the theme Breaking the Patterns. The exhibition is open daily, 11am–5pm (closed Sundays and Mondays), and is presented by Capacity Ireland in association with Creative Europe, the Arts Council, and local authority arts services of Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, and Waterford.
Full details
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Limerick Traveller Network
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Leaders and Members of the Limerick Traveller Network speak about the transformative power of education and the urgent need to address discrimination faced by Traveller children in the education system. Through personal stories and community leadership, they highlight how education empowers Travellers to become role models and changemakers. But they also shine a light on the systemic barriers in the education system. This is a call for change. The education system must evolve to be inclusive, fair, and empowering for all. Community Foundation Ireland is proud to support this work and amplify Traveller voices as part of our commitment to our mission of Equality For All.
Watch the Video here
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National Rural Youth Assembly
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On Wednesday, 24 September, Minister Dara Calleary TD opened the fifth National Rural Youth Assembly, which brought together 65 delegates aged 12–25 from across Ireland, including Gaeltacht areas and the Islands, to discuss rural challenges and opportunities and make recommendations for government policymakers.
Full details
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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. Our 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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Announcement for NDA Research Promotion Scheme 2025-26 Funding Call
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The National Disability Authority (NDA) is inviting proposals for our Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) 2025-26 from researchers, academic institutions, advocacy organisations, Disabled Persons Organisations, service providers or other relevant bodies
The RPS 2025-26 theme is Disability in Marginalised Groups and Communities with particular interest in proposals focused on disability issues in Traveller and/or Roma communities.
Closing date: October 6th, 2025
Full details
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Children’s Active Play Fund
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The Children’s Active Play Fund is a three year fund aimed at supporting children and young people across Ireland get active, stay healthy, and have fun.
This €1.5 million fund is created by Rethink Ireland in partnership with the Sunflower Charitable Foundation and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht via the Dormant Accounts Fund.
Full details
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Carlow to Host Workshop on EU Funding and International Collaboration
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On Tuesday, 7 October 2025, Carlow County Council will host “EU: A Catalyst for Change – Designing EU Projects & International Collaboration” at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel. The workshop aims to help local organisations, businesses, and community groups engage more effectively with Europe and access opportunities for projects, partnerships, and investment.
The workshop is free to attend and open to all organisations interested in exploring European project opportunities, but advance registration is encouraged as places are limited. For further information go to
www.localenterprise.ie/carlow or by calling 059/9129783
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DCEE – Circular Economy Innovation Grants Scheme
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The Circular Economy Innovation Grants Scheme 2025, a collaboration between Community Foundation Ireland and the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, is now open for applications.
The Fund aims to support regional and national projects developing or showcasing models of best practice focused on waste prevention in the areas of plastic, construction and demolition, food, as well as resources and raw materials. These models of best practice can either involve developing innovative solutions to waste prevention by incorporating features of the circular economy or scaling up an existing solution that has been successfully implemented for at least 12 months.
Grants between €40,000 to €50,000 will be available for non-profit organisations, social enterprises and small businesses working in the area of circular economy or aiming to make their existing work more circular.
The grant round is open until Wednesday, the 8th of October.
Application details
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Community Foundation Ireland’s (CFI) Biodiversity Fund is open for applications until Friday 17th October, 2025.
With the support of the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, this fund has been devised to enhance biodiversity in communities throughout the country by combining the expertise of qualified ecologists with the skills, experience, and enthusiasm of local community groups.
There are two strands to this year’s grant round:
CFI are inviting community groups to apply for a grant to engage an ecologist and develop a Community Biodiversity Action Plan (CBAP) for their local area. Please find more information in our Criteria document here.
CFI are inviting any organisation who has a CBAP to apply for funding to implement recommendations contained in it. Please find more information in their Criteria document here.
This grant round closes on Friday 17th October at 4pm. Please read the Criteria documents carefully before applying and check our Application Help Guide here for how to access the application form.
Application details
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Community Climate Action Funding Webinar
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Please join us along with Aine, Climate Officer with Carlow County Council for a Community Climate Action funding information session – online:
5.30pm Monday, 6th October 2025.
Book for a Zoom webinar – Book here
Information Clinics: Check the Carlow PPN social media channels, and Carlow County Council websites for library drop-in sessions with Áine across the county.
If you would like to know more on the drop-in clinics, contact Aine on 059 9136231
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Consultations, Surveys & Submissions
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Statement of Strategy 2025-2028 – Call for submissions
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The Department of Rural and Community Development, and the Gaeltacht is currently preparing a new Statement of Strategy to cover the period 2025-2028.
This important document will set out the strategic vision of the Department as they look to build upon the progress made since our establishment in 2017.
Commitments made in the Programme for Government – Securing Ireland’s Future, in addition to Government’s 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030; Our Rural Future; Sustainable, Inclusive and Empowered Communities and other relevant policies will inform the development of our Statement of Strategy.
Their current Statement of Strategy, can be found here
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Introduction to Local Government in Ireland
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See Her Elected (SHE) are running an Introduction to Local Government course, which aims to demystify local politics by explaining how County Councils work, the roles of elected councillors and council executives, and how the community can participate through Public Participation Networks. The course also covers the day-to-day role and remuneration of councillors, gender representation, and research on supporting more women to run for election.
Book here
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Dementia Awareness Workshop
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Friends of ASI Carlow, in partnership with Carlow PPN, invite you to a special free event to help build awareness around dementia and create more inclusive, supportive communities.
Wednesday, 15th October 2025, 11:00 AM
Seven Oaks Hotel, Athy Road, Carlow (R93 V4K5)
Why join?
Learn what dementia is and how it affects people locally (over 600 in Carlow)
- Discover supports & services available in the community
- Gain practical tips on creating dementia-friendly spaces
- Hear about the Friends of ASI Carlow initiative
Open to all Carlow PPN members, local groups & community organisations. Together, we can make Carlow a place where no one is left behind.
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Manage Scams and Common Type of Fraud Awareness
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Stay Alert. Stay Safe. Cybercrime is Real!
Join 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, 12th November 2025
Time: 5:00 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
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PPN Stakeholder Training | Social Justice Ireland
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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
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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:
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Creative Carlow's Holy Wells Project
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Carlow County Council will soon release the first video from the Creative Carlow Holy Wells Project – Life Springs Eternal on its social media, with the series archived on the Carlow County Libraries YouTube channel. The first video, St Andrew's Well, leads up to free coach trips to St. Lazerians, Old Leighlin, and Cranavane Holy Well on 11th October, exploring heritage engagement and well-being. The project is supported by Carlow Arts Office and Creative Ireland. Dr. Eoin Sullivan, Heritage Officer, can be contacted for heritage inquiries.
Email esullivan@carlowcoco.ie for further info.
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Conradh na Gaeilge’s Céad Míle Fáilte initiative for 2026–2027
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On Thursday, 18 September 2025, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, approved funding of up to €467,772 for Conradh na Gaeilge’s Céad Míle Fáilte initiative for 2026–2027. The programme highlights the benefits of the Irish language for new communities, supporting cultural integration and opportunities in Irish society.
Full details
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Community Pharmacy Agreement 2025
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Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, has published the Community Pharmacy Agreement 2025 following negotiations with the Irish Pharmacy Union. The €75 million investment (2025–2026) will strengthen community pharmacy services, support sustainable funding, and enhance their role in delivering safe, equitable, and integrated healthcare.
Full details
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Active Carlow Strategic Plan 2025–2029
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The Active Carlow Strategic Plan 2025–2029 is highlighted in the latest Carlow Active Travel E-Bulletin. Launched by Active Carlow, the rebranded Carlow Local Sports Partnership, the plan’s theme “Moving Together” sets a vision to boost participation in sport and physical activity across the county for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
Catch up with the Carlow Active Travel E-Bulletin here
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Suicide Bereavement Training - Carlow
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*Please click on the posters for a fuller image...
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