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Cavan Community ENews 14.8.26

  • 1 hour ago
  • 23 min read

With over 40 pieces of news this week (including several new funds and new community training) welcome to your weekly ENews. Our news is compiled weekly from our over 500 member groups (573 as of this week!), partner agencies and funders. The deadline for submitting to cavanppn@gmail.com is noon Wednesdays with the title 'ENEWS ITEM' and we can only take community focused news. Please try to ensure that items fit to one A4 page for ease of reading by recipients. Please note that views/items contained within our ENews may not reflect the values/policies of CavanPPN.

Many Thanks, The CavanPPN Team (Aisling & Daniel). info@cavanppn.ie, CavanPPN, CCLD, Corlurgan, Cavan. H12 X9Y1 



NOTICE: A seat on the PEACEPLUS partnership requires a social partner representing “New Communities” and nominations are now welcomed for a social partner through the PPN. An email has been sent to ALL relevant nominating group contacts but should you require the info, we can send the relevant data. Please contact cavanppn@gmail.com for more



CONTENTS (Shaded are new items this week, but all are still relevant/in date)


FUNDING

1. FUNDING: 3 Conservation Grants Open

2. FUNDING: Movement for Good Awards

3. FUNDING: Perigus Energy Community Benefit Fund

4. FUNDING: Wildlife Acoustics Grant 5. FUNDING: Artists with Disabilities Fund 6. FUNDING: Huawei Solar Sports Fund 7. FUNDING:  ESF+ Fund

8. FUNDING: Energy for Generations Grant

9. FUNDING: Glór na Gael GAA Funding


TRAINING 11. TRAINING: Free Health & Safety for Social Farming Training 12. TRAINING: CavanPPN Training to Years End 13. TRAINING: Cross Border Collaboration Training 14. TRAINING: HUGG Support After Suicide Creative Workshops 15. TRAINING: PPN Stakeholder Training


SURVEYS/CONSULTS 16.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: National Food Waist Consultation

17.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: National Folic Acid Into Flour Consultation 18. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Rising Insurance for Communities Survey 19.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: National Community Safety Strategy 20.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: LGBTQ+ Study on Rising Hate 21.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: New Euro Banknotes, Have Your Say 22.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: National Predator Survey 23.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Living As A 14-24 Year Old in Cavan 24.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: The Disability Act Consultation



EVENTS & OTHER NEWS 25. Cavan365, Faces of County Cavan Wanted 26. Ballinagh Folly Fest 27. Fields of Change in Drumlane 28. Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt 29-  Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark Turns 25! 30- The Sleeping Giant Seeks Expressions of Interest

31- NESC National Conference 32 -Leitrim Welcomes Cavan Storytelling 33 - Cavan Storyteller Trio perform on Loughcrew for Heritage Week 34- The Future is Creative Call for Presentations 35- Swanlinbar Tractor Run 36- Fire Services Blocked in Cavan 37- Mind Me, Mind You Event for Parents & Carers 38 Artists Residency Offer 39- Thrive & Shine Cavan Seeks Volunteers 40- National Hosepipe Ban in Effect 41- Council Issues Algae Bloom Warning! 42 Virginia SHow 43. Maudabawn Bicentenary Weekend 44. Castle Lake Heritage Week Event 45- Public Libraries are vital: New EU Report Calls for Stronger Recognition and Investment

Warm Dip in The Erne River
Warm Dip in The Erne River



FUNDING

1 Three Conservation Grants Open

Three key built heritage schemes are open: the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS), Historic Structures Fund (HSF) and Historic Thatch Buildings (HTB) for 2027.

 



2.    Movement for Good Awards

Benefact Group - Movement for Good Awards

The Benefact Group Movement for Good is your chance to help us give away our profits to good causes.

Deadline: 5 Oct



3.  Perigus Energy Community Benefit Fund

Perigus Energy Community Benefit Fund


Perigus Energy is dedicated to being an active partner in the communities where they develop, build, operate and own green energy assets. They have set up Community Benefit Funds in accordance with the Wind Energy Ireland (WEI) Best Practice Principles in Community Engagement & Community Commitment guidelines.


Perigus Energy operate renewable energy projects throughout Ireland. To check if any of their wind or solar farms are near you, visit the link below.


Through the Community Benefit Fund they offer support to organisations that engage in:

Community Services

Energy efficiency and sustainability

Educational Programmes

Medical and health assistance


The Community Benefit Funds are available for applications all year round. Their internal committee meet quarterly to evaluate applications as they are received.


Deadline: Open all year round



4.     Wildlife Acoustics Grants

Wildlife Acoustics Grant - 15th Aug


Wildlife Acoustics is proud to offer a quarterly grant program that supports the advancement of wildlife research, habitat monitoring, and environmental conservation. Scientists may apply for a product grant to advance the study of bats, birds, amphibians, and other terrestrial wildlife—or a travel grant to help them attend a conference with their peers.


Deadline: 15th August 2026



5.  Artists with Disabilities Fund





6.        Huawei Solar Sports Scheme

Huawei Solar Sports Scheme 

Huawei Technologies (Ireland) Co., Ltd. (“Huawei”) is pleased to announce the Huawei Solar Sports Scheme (the “Scheme”), a grant programme designed to support and invest in grassroots sports clubs across the community. 

The scheme will award five (5) cash grants of €10,000 each, totalling €50,000 in available funding, to eligible sports clubs that demonstrate a clear need for financial support and the capacity to deliver meaningful benefit to their members and the wider community. 

Deadline: 31 Aug



7.      ESF+ Fund


European Social Fund Plus (ESF+)  

The European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) aims to support member states and regions to improve employment and education opportunities, to enhance social inclusion and to tackle poverty.

Deadline: 2 Sept



8- Energy for Generations Fund


Energy for Generations Fund to Open Soon

The Energy for Generations Fund has announced the opening date for its second funding round of 2026, with applications set to open on Monday 10 August and close at 5pm on Monday 24 August.

The fund distributes €1 million annually through two funding rounds, supporting charities across Ireland that are working to tackle social exclusion. Funding is focused on initiatives that improve access to education, increase employment opportunities, and address homelessness.

close at 5pm on Monday 24 August.





9- Glór na Gael Funding

Grants for GAA clubs registered with FSMD - Glór na nGael - 1st Sept


Glór na nGael is delighted to announce that the second round of funding under the 2026 Fondúireacht Sheosaimh Mhic Dhonncha scheme is now open.


There will be a one month window until 1st September for clubs who are currently registered with the Fondúireacht to apply for a grant of up to €500 to organise Irish language projects in their clubs. Clubs are advised to consider projects that increase the regular and continual use of Irish within the club.


Priority will be given to regular family events run within GAA clubs and for a series of events to encourage the use of Irish in GAA clubhouses and amongst club memberships. Irish language classes are also very popular within the Fondúireacht. Clubs may also apply for funding for Irish language and bilingual signage to increase the visibility of the language around club pitches and clubhouses.


Deadline: 1st September 2026




10- European Heritage Awards

Are you leading or part of a heritage project that deserves recognition at the highest European level? Whether you are an individual, a team of experts, or an organisation, this is your chance to share your achievements and compete for Europe’s most prestigious heritage awards!


The European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards celebrate excellence in the protection, conservation, research, education, and promotion of cultural heritage across Europe, covering a wide range of categories and project types – from tangible to intangible heritage.


Applications can be submitted in one of the following five categories:


1) Conservation & Adaptive Reuse;

2) Research;

3) Education, Training & Skills;

4) Citizens’ Engagement & Awareness-raising; and

5) Heritage Champions.


Deadline: 7th September 2026









TRAINING

11- Free Health & Safety for Social Farming Training

Social Farming Ireland led by Leitrim Development Company have launched a National Health and Safety Project 'Health and Safety for Social Farming, Farm Open Days and Events' funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Open Call for Farmer Health, Safety and Wellbeing 2026.

Launched by Minister of State Niall Collins on the farm of Noel Murphy, Crecora Limerick last week on Monday July 27th, the project includes: 

  • 10 online Health and Safety Training days - various dates and time slots available. 

  • 6 on farm Health and Safety Training days - one in each region. 

The trainings are being facilitated by Jim Dockery of Towra Livestock and content has been informed by a steering committee group. 

With inputs from both a steering committee / project group and from farmers sharing knowledge at online and in person training sessions - ‘How to have Safe Farm Open Days and Events’ booklet will be available to the public in late October.

All farmers considering having farm open days and events, or simply that have visitors on their farm at any time would greatly benefit from access to this information and training. 

The training is free and explores general health and safety with a focus on open days and events on farms. On farm trainings include complementary lunch.

Here are the training links: Spaces are filling fast, register today! 

On farm training:

Online training here: 

We encourage you to take the time to attend one online and one in person training session, and join us in an effort to make Irish farms safer places for everyone. 

Please feel free to share with your community of farmers and farming adjacent professions. 

If you need any assistance registering, give me a call on 086 8395516. 

Thank you. 

Kind Regards, 

Eilís Cooney

Social Farming Development Manager



12- CavanPPN Training For 2026 Remaining

CavanPPN will be supporting training for its member groups in the following opportunities. We have LIMITED numbers for each module and so this is a first come, first serve basis. The training is FREE for members of CavanPPN registered groups ONLY. Email your interest to info@cavanppn.ie with your name, the name of your group and which training you are interested in. 1 training per member please!






13- Cross Border Collaboration Training This course aims to provide you with the information and tools that you need at each stage of developing your cross-border project to ensure that it is both effective and creates a sustainable partnership.

Getting Started with Cross Border Cooperation will enable you to:

  • Use evidence to effectively identify and define challenges in your community that your organisation can solve as part of fulfilling its core mission.

  • Build sustainable partnerships with organisations on the other side of the border.

  • Design and implement projects that benefit multiple jurisdictions in a way that each organisation alone could not achieve.

  • Effectively demonstrate the value and impact of your project.

The course is free of charge and is open to any and all organisations on the island of Ireland who are considering engaging in a cross-border project for the first time.

There are two course options: a guided course with Anthony Soares, Director of the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation; and a self-guided course for independent learning.



14- Hugg Support After Suicide Creative Workshop HUGG - Support After Suicide - Invitation to Free Creative Workshop, 22nd August, Cavan 

If you are over 18 years old, and bereaved by suicide, you are invited to attend a FREE creative workshop on Saturday 22nd August, 10.45am to 1pm, Hotel Kilmore,  Dublin Rd, Killygarry, Cavan, H12 F6Y7.


 We are creating a HUGG suicide memorial quilt, made up of hand-crafted individual fabric squares; each unique square honouring our loved ones who died by suicide. The finished piece will communicate to others that suicide grief doesn’t have to be faced alone.


 


 This workshop is suitable for men and women. No previous crafting or sewing experience needed!  Being in the company of others who have a shared experience of suicide loss can provide comfort, support, and hope, while needle crafting can provide inspiration. This activity may help you to explore and discover meaningful memories of your loved one. Fibre artist & expert, Marie Hopkins, will provide a demonstration on needle felting and how to get started, explaining how to use the tools, blend colours, and use the needle.  You will be provided with all you need to explore your inner creativity and intuition, and enough time to create a hand-crafted fabric square.  See attached participants' description of the workshop and answers to frequently asked questions. 



 Spaces in this workshop are limited. To avoid disappointment, you are advised to register early.  

 

Register here:  HUGG Creative Workshop Registration Form  OR call HUGG to register over the phone: 01 513 4048 OR  email info@HUGG.ie

 

Complimentary refreshments will be served on arrival, and sandwiches at the end of the workshop.



15- PPN Stakeholder Training

PPN Stakeholder Training

 

The online only self-paced training videos programme for PPN stakeholders has been developed with SJI. Registrations for the online only training is now open. Social Justice Ireland is providing this training on behalf of the Department.

 

The online only training covers the following:

-             An Introduction to the PPNs (2 Modules)

-             Local Government Budgets

-             PPNs and Local Government

-             Effective Participation in Consultations

-             Effective Facilitation

-             Strategic Planning

-             Measuring Outcomes and Impacts

 

This is online only and is intended for self-directed learning at the learner’s own pace. Social Justice Ireland will provide some support via the webform on each Module page. There are no scheduled classes as part of this training.

 

This training is available 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: : Register for Training | Social Justice Ireland

 



SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS




16-  National Food Waste Consultation

Minister Alan Dillon launches public consultation on Ireland’s next National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap (2026–2028).

The Department is inviting submissions from the public and stakeholders to help shape the actions that will reduce food waste, cut emissions and support Ireland’s transition to a more circular economy




17- Folic Acid in Wholemeal Flour Consult

Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD has today launched an online public consultation seeking the views and opinions of the public and of industry on the mandatory fortification of non wholemeal flour with folic acid, to help reduce the incidence of neural tube defects in Ireland. Neural tube defects include conditions such as spina bifida, anencephaly, encephalocele and iniencephaly.

Neural tube defects can occur when the spinal cord does not develop properly during early pregnancy. Ireland has a higher-than-average rate of occurrence of neural tube defects compared with the rest of Europe. Research has shown that sufficient folic acid intake may help reduce the incidence of neural tube defects.

This public consultation provides an important opportunity for members of the public, to provide their views on the proposed fortification of non wholemeal flour with folic acid to help reduce the incidence of neural tube defects in Ireland. We are also interested in the views of ‘food industry’ and related business operators to know how flour fortification with folic acid may affect their activities, along with input on any measures that could help businesses adapt to the new fortification requirements.

Submissions received through this process will be considered and may be used to inform future policy and legislation regarding mandatory fortification of flour with folic acid.





18-  Rising Insurance Premiums for Communities Survey

Rising insurance premiums are a major challenge for many charities and community groups. The Alliance for Insurance Reform needs your help by completing its annual insurance survey. 

It takes less than one minute, and the information gathered is shared with government ministers, national media and others to highlight the ongoing challenges that insurance costs pose to community and voluntary groups across the country.


The questions are straightforward and general, with no specific financial information required.

The Alliance has secured major reforms of the insurance and personal injury claims landscape in Ireland, with reductions in the volume of claims and the size of awards. Unfortunately, this has yet to translate into meaningful reductions in premiums for many organisations. This survey helps show what is happening on the ground and supports the case for further action.

Survey link:



19-  Feedback on National Community Safety Strategy The Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O'Callaghan TD, has now published the draft National Strategy for Improving Community Safety and is inviting feedback on the draft.

 

Read the draft strategy online: 

 

How to make a submission:

The closing date for feedback is by 5pm on the 11 September 2026 .Feedback can be submitted at this link. 

 

For more information, visit:

 

The National Office for Community Safety is managing the feedback process on behalf of the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration. Any queries in relation to the National Strategy for Improving Community Safety should be directed to: strategy@communitysafety.ie



20-  LGBTQ+ Study on Rising Hate

Hope and Courage Collective is encouraging LGBTQ+ people across Ireland to take part in CROSSROADS: Understanding Rising Hate and the Changes Needed to Support LGBTQ+ Communities in Ireland.

CROSSROADS is the first national study focused specifically on the impact of far-right hostility, organised anti-LGBTQ+ activity, misinformation and rising hate on LGBTQ+ communities in Ireland. Crucially, it also asks LGBTQ+ people what responses and changes they want to see. 



The study is exploring experiences of:

  • Safety and belonging

  • Discrimination and hostility

  • Far-right and organised anti-LGBTQ+ activity

  • Online hate and misinformation

  • Housing, workplaces and services

  • Community support

  • Public life in Ireland

  • The changes needed from government, public bodies and civil society


The researchers are especially encouraging participation from trans and gender-diverse people, LGBTQ+ migrants, people from minority ethnic communities, people living outside the larger cities and others whose experiences may be underrepresented.

The study is led by the Sexual Health Centre, in partnership with NB Social Justice Studio, and funded by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. Its circulation has been supported by organisations across the LGBTQ+ and wider civil society sectors.


Who can take part?

  • LGBTQ+ adults aged 18 or over

  • Living in the Republic of Ireland

  • Anonymous and confidential

  • Approximately 15 minutes to complete

Participants may skip any question or leave the survey at any time. Please consider taking part and sharing the survey with LGBTQ+ people in your networks.





21-  Have Your Say On New Euro Banknote Designs


Our euro banknotes are getting a new look! Designers from all over Europe have reimagined how they may look like, and one of their proposals is to become the next design of the euro banknotes.

Want to have a say on which designs are your favourites? Future euro banknote design proposals



22- National Predator Survey

The survey takes approximately five minutes to complete and is completely anonymous. It explores people's encounters with, and perceptions of, some predators across the island of Ireland.

As the research aims to engage a broad range of people from a range of backgrounds across the island of Ireland, I am contacting biodiversity officers across the Republic of Ireland to ask for your support in sharing the survey through your local networks. Your connections with local communities provide an amazing opportunity to reach people who we may not otherwise be able to engage directly, and I would really appreciate your help in extending the reach of the research within your region.

If possible, I'd like to ask if it's possible to do any of the following:

  • Sharing it through staff communications

  • Sharing to community organisations 

  • Including the survey in email lists and/or newsletters

  • Sharing it via social media channels

  • Passing it on to wider networks that may be interested

  • Informally sharing it with friends and family

  • Completing the survey yourself

I would also be very interested to hear about any upcoming community events where myself or volunteers may be able to attend or engage directly with participants to help increase awareness and participation.

You can access the survey here UUPredatorSurvey.com, with further information available in the banner below and the attached poster.



Thank you very much for your time and support. Every response helps improve the reach and quality of the research.

If you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you for your time, 




  1. What's It Like Being 14-24 Years Old In Cavan



24- Disability Act Consult

The purpose of this consultation process is to inform the review of the Disability Act in its entirety.

Recent reforms have focused on Part 2 of the Disability Act because of the urgent need to make the Assessment of Need (AON) process more effective and efficient for children and families. Further information on these targeted reforms can be found here. The review of the Disability Act in its entirety will involve a detailed consideration of Part 2 and other reforms that may be needed to advance the implementation of the UNCRPD.

The review will also include examination of the Programme for Government commitment to place an autism strategy on a legislative footing.





EVENTS & OTHER NEWS


25- Cavan 365, Faces of Our County Wanted

CAVAN 365 – FACES OF OUR COUNTY WANTED

Cavan photographer Lorraine Teevan is inviting people from across County Cavan to become part of Cavan 365, a new photographic project celebrating the people who make up the county today.

Cavan 365 is supported by Cavan Arts Office, Cavan Townhall Arts Space and Cavan County Council.

The aim is to create 365 portraits representing the diversity of Cavan – people of every age, race, nationality, background and ability, from every community across the county.

Lorraine will be photographing participants at Cavan Townhall Arts Space on Sunday 30th and Monday 31st August 2026, from 11am to 6pm each day.

Everyone is welcome – babies and children, teenagers, adults and older people; people born and raised in Cavan and those who have made Cavan their home. People from minority communities, different cultures and nationalities, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from all walks of life are encouraged to take part.

No modelling experience is needed – just come as you are.

The portraits will form part of Lorraine Teevan's Cavan 365 exhibition, opening at Cavan Townhall Arts Space on 7th November 2026.

The project will create a unique photographic record of the people of Cavan in 2026 – 365 people, 365 faces, one county.

For further information email 365cavanphotos@gmail.com or check out social media pages

Instagram @Cavan.365

Facebook @ Cavan 365



26- Ballinagh Folly Fest

BALLINAGH FOLLY FEST IS BACK! For one day only! Full details still to be announced, so make sure you keep an eye on our socials  Instagram: @ballinaghcommunityenterprise


27-  Fields of Change At Drumlane

Drumlane History & Heritage Group

Saturday 15th August   - 2pm - 4pm

Drumlane abbey Car Park

A free tour of the historic Drumlane abbey church and graveyard, followed by an optional short walk along part of an ancient roadway exploring the evolving landscapes with views over the lakes, crannogs and an ancient ringfort.




Event Type

Suitable for walkers and families, strong footwear is recommended.                        Free Car parking available.

 

Sunday 23rd August -   2pm – 4.30 pm

Milltown Community Resource Centre Car Park   H14 K224

Celebrate and promote the rich history and heritage of Milltown Village. A free guided walk and talk highlighting local places, people and stories.

Following this event refreshment will be served in the Milltown Community Resource Centre, providing an opportunity for attendees to share memories, stories and local knowledge in a welcoming community setting.

 

Further Information

Suzanne Gunn: 087 6467619

Facebook: Drumlane  History & Heritage Group

Email: gunnsusie@ gmail.com

Everyone Welcome 






28- Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt in Hotel Kilmore

Say Their Name: Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt – Creative Workshop

 

HUGG is the national suicide bereavement support charity, providing free peer support to adults who have been bereaved by suicide across Ireland. Through support groups, a telephone support line, grief cafés, walks and community events, HUGG provides safe, compassionate spaces where people bereaved by suicide can connect with others who truly understand their experience.

 

As part of this mission, HUGG is inviting adults bereaved by suicide to attend its "Say Their Name" Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt – Creative Workshop on Saturday, 22 August, from 10.45am–1.00pm at Hotel Kilmore, Cavan.

 

This free workshop offers a safe and compassionate space to remember and honour a loved one who has died by suicide. Participants will create an individual fabric square in their loved one's memory, which will become part of HUGG's Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt—a tangible symbol of remembrance, connection and hope.

 

No sewing or crafting experience is needed, and both men and women are welcome. The workshop offers a gentle opportunity to reflect, express memories through creativity, and connect with others who understand the impact of suicide bereavement.

 

Places are limited, so advance registration is essential.

 

To register or find out more, visit our website HUGG.ie, email info@HUGG.ie or call 01 513 4048.


29- Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark turns 25!


Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark is proud to celebrate 25 years of Geopark recognition in the region.

 

To mark this significant milestone, we will be hosting a programme of events from Saturday 24 October - Friday 13 November 2026, culminating in a special closing event on Saturday 14 November 2026.

 

These celebrations will showcase the Geopark's outstanding geological, natural and cultural heritage, celebrate the communities, businesses and stakeholders that have shaped its success, and reflect on 25 years of conservation, community, education and sustainable tourism across the region.

 

We invite community groups, businesses, schools, organisations and individuals to get involved by hosting an event as part of the Geopark25 Celebrations. If you are interested in participating, please complete this form as an expression of interest: https://form.jotform.com/262174521755357

 

What are we looking for?


We welcome a wide range of event proposals that celebrate the Geopark's geological, natural, cultural and community heritage. Events can include guided walks, talks, workshops, exhibitions, performances, educational activities, conservation projects, community gatherings and other innovative initiatives that align with the spirit of the Geopark25 celebrations and your connection to the Geopark.

 

A limited amount of funding is available to support selected events. If funding is required, please indicate the level of support needed and provide a detailed breakdown of anticipated costs.

 

Successful events will be included in the official Geopark25 Celebrations Programme and promoted through the Geopark's marketing and communications channels.

 

Geopark25 Event Application deadline: Tuesday 25th August 2026 at 5pm.

 

We hope to respond to submitted Expression of Interests by early September 2026.

Kind regards,

Ashley Robinson

Geopark Community Officer

Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global GeoparkMacNean Resource Centre, Blacklion, Co. Cavan F91 NWV7



30-  The Sleeping Giant Seeks Your Interest

CMETB are currently seeking three youth groups, services, or community groups from each of Cavan’s three Municipal Districts – Cavan-Belturbet MD (West Cavan), Cootehill-Bailieborough MD, and Ballyjamesduff MD – to take part in The Sleeping Giant, an exciting countywide community arts project led by artist Tom Meskell.

 

The Sleeping Giant brings young people together to create, imagine, and celebrate local stories through the arts. Participants will work alongside three trained artists in a fun, supportive environment, exploring themes of creativity, community, heritage, collective imagination, and environmental awareness.

 

Workshops can be delivered between August and early October and are open to youth groups, youth services, community organisations, and local groups working with young people from ages 6+. Participants will have the opportunity to develop new artistic skills while contributing to a large collaborative exhibition installation.

 

All artwork created through the project will form part of a countywide exhibition at Urney Church of Ireland, Farnham Street, Cavan Town, on Saturday 24 October and Sunday 25 October, culminating in a Lantern Parade through Cavan Town on the Sunday evening. All participating groups will be invited to attend the exhibition opening and parade celebrations.

 

This project is part of a wider Gulliver's Travels Celebration Project for October 2026. It is widely acknowledged and recorded in history that Swift was in Co. Cavan in 1726 during the writing of Gulliver’s Travels, inspired by the landscape, people and lakes of the area. He also had strong links to Quilca House in Mullagh, where he stayed and where it’s believed he finished writing the international best-selling book. He also had family connections to Swanlinbar where his uncle, Godwin Swift, had an Ironworks. Local oral folklore there has it for generations, that a famous childhood prank by two little boys in Swanlinbar directly led to the iconic Lilliput scene of Gulliver being tied down.

 

Places will be offered on a first come first served basis in each district so if your group would like to be part of this unique creative adventure and help bring local stories to life, we would love to hear from you.

 

 

Regards

 

Alan Ryan 

Comhordaitheoir Óige Cruthaitheach Aitiúil, Seirbhísí Óige | Local Creative Youth Co-ordinator, Youth Services 

 

Bord Oideachais agus Oiliúna an Chabháin agus Mhuineacháin

Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board  

 

Sráid an Mhargaidh, Muineachán H18 W449  

Market Street, Monaghan, H18 W449 

 

W: www.cmetb.ie  |   M: 087 4884017   |  T: 047 30888 ext. 143  









31- NESC National Conference

Date & time: Tuesday, 24th November 2026 | 8.30am – 4.45pm

Venue: Printworks, Dublin Castle

Hosted by: National Economic and Social Council (NESC) & European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) At the end of May, we were pleased to send you a Save the Date for the NESC & EESC Conference, Building and Protecting Social Cohesion: A National, European and International Perspective, taking place in Dublin Castle on 24 November.

 

We are now inviting expressions of interest from those who would like to attend. The link below will take you to our Eventbrite page, where you can complete Stage One of the attendance process and confirm your interest in attending the conference.

 

Please note that attendance at this event involves a two-stage attendance process, outlined below.

 

Stage One – Expression of Interest

Click the 'Reserve a Spot' button on this Eventbrite page to confirm that you would like to attend the conference by providing your details.

 

Stage Two – Official EU Presidency Registration

As this event forms part of the official programme of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, all participants must complete a second stage of registration through the official EU Presidency registration platform. We will use the details you provide during Stage One to send you your personal registration link early in September.

 

You must complete this second stage to obtain the security accreditation required to access Dublin Castle. Admission will not be possible on the day without having completed Stage Two in advance.

 

An outline of the conference programme is available on the  Eventbrite page. Confirmed speaker details will be announced in the coming weeks.

 

If you are unable to attend and would like to nominate an alternative attendee, please forward them this email so that they can complete Stage One and express their interest in attending.




32- Leitrim Welcomes Cavan Storytelling

Organisers in Carrigallen, County leitrim, warmly welcomed Cavan Storyteller Daniel Downey last week to perform the life story of the amazing Margaret of New Orleans. This amazing woman, who was born in this very cottage, was instrumental in saving countless orphans and widows on the streets of 19th century New Orleans. Attended by both locals and visitors from Mullingar, Dublin and Donegal, the event was an intimate retelling of her story and local folklore. Joined by Joeri, a local wood carver, the two demonstrated both ancient crafts of hand and word for the visitors to Margaret's Cottage.


More info on Margaret can be found here: www.margaretsbirthplace.ie




33-  Cavan Storytellers Perform Heritage Week in Loughcrew

Join three professional storytelling members of the Bréifne Yarnspinners on a walk up Loughcrew which blends storytelling with the natural beauty and ancient history of the landscape. As you ascend, you will not only enjoy stunning views, but also hear tales tied to the land. Stories of placenames, legendary heroes, and infamous villains. Some older than the Cairns themselves.

Please note that this is a guided walk starting in Loughcrew Cairns car park and finishing at the summit of Carnbane East.The climb to the summit is steep and visitors are asked to wear suitable footwear

Further Information

Loughcrew Cairns, Office of Public Works



34- The Future is Creative Call For Presentations/Workshops I am getting in touch about our callout for the Arts in Education National Day taking place at TU Dublin on Saturday 7 November.



Call for Presentations and Workshops


Deadline: Wednesday 16 September 2026

This year's theme: The Future is Creative: Why arts and creativity in education matter more than ever. 


⠀


As we navigate a world shaped by rapid technological change, climate challenges, evolving communities, and new ways of learning and connecting, human creativity has never been more important.

We invite artists, creative practitioners, teachers, educators, academics and arts in education professionals to share presentations or workshops. We are particularly interested in projects and practices that explore:


 - Arts in education in the age of AI and emerging technologies


-  Arts based approaches to connect with nature, climate action and sustainability

We would really appreciate it if you could share this with your networks. 

Please share our social post from Arts in Education Portal Instagram or Facebook




35- Swanlinbar Tractor Run







36- Fire Services Blocked in Cavan


Fire engines were unable to access Fleming's Folly at Cashel Cross entrance this week due to parked vehicles partially blocking the entrance. Please leave room for emergency service access when parking at public amenities - it could be your loved ones that need assistance!




37- Mind Me, Mind You Event for Parents & Carers








38- Artists Residency Offer





39- Thrive & Shine Cavan Needs Volunteers



40- Hosepipe Ban For All Ireland July 24th to August 26th


Uisce Éireann has confirmed that a Water Conservation Order will be extended to all counties including Cavan from 00:01 on Friday 24 July until Wednesday 26 August 2026


The prohibited uses are as follows:

  • Use of water drawn through a hosepipe or similar apparatus for watering a garden.

  • Cleaning a private motor vehicle using a domestic hosepipe.

  • Cleaning a private leisure boat.

  • Filling or maintaining a domestic swimming or paddling pool, except when using hand-held containers filled directly from a tap.

  • Filling or maintaining a domestic pond, excluding fish ponds.

  • Filling or maintaining an ornamental fountain, except for commercial purposes.

  • Filling or replenishing an artificial pond, lake or similar application.


Key tips to help conserve water

  • Drop the hose: Use a watering can instead of a hose or sprinkler.

  • Leak free: Check that your home is leak free. Check for running overflows and fix any dripping taps, cisterns or pipes.

  • Don’t let the tap run: Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can save up to six litres of water per minute.

  • Choose showers over baths: A seven-minute shower uses significantly less water than the average bath.

  • Run full loads: Only use washing machines and dishwashers when fully loaded.

  • Save on flushing: Consider using a cistern displacement device to reduce water use.



41- Council Issues Algae Bloom Warning

Due to prevailing conditions and nutrient enrichment, algal blooms, which appear as a green scum, may appear on lakes throughout the county at this time of year. Avoid contact with algal blooms as they may cause skin irritation or be toxic if ingested. Dogs are particularly sensitive to these blooms




42 Virginia Agricultural Show




43 Maudabawn Bicentenary Weekend

Bicentenary Weekend - 200 Years of faith, heritage and culture. You, and all your family are cordially invited to join us celebrating 200 Years of the faith and heritage of St. Patrick's Church Maudabawn on its Bicentenary Weekend from the 21st -23rdAugust 2026.

Friday 21st August 9.00 pm in Gallonray House - Book Launch: 'From Bridge to Spire'   Two Centuries of Maudabawn Chapel and its People, by author Aogán O'Fearghaill.  Also, reminiscence with a Photographic Exhibition celebrating the rich history of our Church and parish.  Saturday 22nd August - 8.30pm in Gallonray House, join us for a great night of Music, Storytelling and Songs.

All are welcome. No cover charge - Photographic display from 7pm.  

Sunday 23rd August at 2.00pm in St. Patrick's Church Maudabawn, Bishop Martin Hayes will concelebrate the Bicentennial Mass, followed by refreshments in Gallonray House and a chance to meet-up with old friends. A wonderful weekend of faith, history, friendship and celebration awaits and not to be missed. 




44 Castle Lake Heritage Week Event




45- Public Libraries are vital: New EU Report Calls for Stronger Recognition and Investment



Public libraries are generally seen as simply a place for borrowing books and a quiet place to read the newspapers. A new report, 'Strengthening Europe through public libraries', published by the European Commission argues that their role has expanded far beyond these traditional library services. Public libraries are now essential institutions that support education, digital inclusion, community resilience, democratic participation, cultural engagement, and social wellbeing.




 
 
 

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