Cavan Community ENews 17.4.26
- 21 hours ago
- 24 min read
Updated: 11 minutes ago
Welcome to your weekly ENews. Our news is compiled weekly from our over 500 member groups (569 as of this week!), partner agencies and funders. The deadline for submitting to cavanppn@gmail.com is noon Wednesdays 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, Finian & Daniel). info@cavanppn.ie, CavanPPN, CCLD, Corlurgan, Cavan. H12 X9Y1
CONTENTS (Shaded are new items this week, but all are still relevant/in date)
FUNDING
1. FUNDING: Lidl Green Fund
2. FUNDING: The Community Safety Fund
3. FUNDING: Six Open Calls & Opportunities Locally
4. FUNDING: PeacePlus Funding 5. FUNDING: Working with Nature Awards
6. FUNDING: LEADER Programme Open 7. FUNDING: Outdoor Swimming Funds
8. FUNDING: LGBTIQ+ Fund
9. FUNDING: Animal Welfare Fund
TRAINING
10. TRAINING: CLAR Information Workshop
11. TRAINING: Active Citizenship
12. TRAINING: New Community Training Courses for PPN Groups
13. TRAINING: Cross-Border Funding Application Training
14. TRAINING: Invasive Species Training
15. TRAINING: How To Be Literacy Friendly Info Hour Webinar
SURVEYS/CONSULTS 16.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: New Government Digital Wallet Consultation
17.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Squirrel & Pine Marten All Ireland Survey 18. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Community Skills & Training Needs 19.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Hedgehog Hibernation Survey 20.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: 7 Minutes to Change Social Innovation in Ireland 21.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Healthy Ireland Framework
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
22. ALONE Newsletter 23. DFI Newsletter 24. Autism Awareness Coffee Morning 25. Maximize Community Space Along Our Border 26. StreetFeast 2026 27. National Voter Registration Day 28. Discuss Rural Isolation in Swanlinbar 29- SunSmart 2026 Campaign 30- The Irish Family History Society
31- AKIDWA Men's Workshops for IPA's 32 Improved Care for Older LGBTQIA+ People 33 Women in Nature Nominations Open 34- Virginia Wins Nationally At AVIVA Stadium 35- An evening with The Cottage Market Cavan
36- Hands Off Nature Campaign 37- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th 38- Cavan's Best Kept Estate... Who Will It Be?
39 Cavan's Old Cures Event 40 Free Electric Recycling Day 41 Save the Date for Belturbet Spring Festival!
FUNDING
The Lidl Green Fund
The Lidl Green Fund Now Inviting Applications
Lidl's Ireland is giving away €100,000 in funding to community sustainability projects - APPLY NOW!
The Lidl Green Fund is designed to promote, support, and empower local sustainability community projects across Ireland to help communities actively champion sustainable living and protect the planet.
Charities, primary and secondary schools, and community groups from every county can now apply with top award of €25,000 up for grabs and a further €75,000 allocated to a number of smaller projects.
The application deadline is 18 May 2026.
2. The Community Safety Fund
Applications Now Open for 2026 Community Safety Fund
Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan, has opened this year’s nationwide funding call for applications to the 2026 Community Safety Fund (CSF).
First opened in 2022, this annual fund allows for the proceeds of crime, seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and An Garda Síochána, to be redirected into local projects that support and enhance community safety. This year’s fund, totalling €4.75 million, is a significant increase since the initial allocation of €2 million in 2022.
Applications will be open until 5pm on 18 May 2026.
3. Six Open Calls & Opportunities Locally
OPEN CALLS & OPPORTUNITIES 2026–2027
Six opportunities are now open for artists, youth groups, drama practitioners and creative communities across County Cavan.
Please share widely!
Townhall Arts Centre Gallery – Exhibition Proposals
Open to emerging, mid‑career & established artists in all visual artforms. Includes a €1,000 bursary.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Townhall Arts Centre & Cavan Arts Studio Awards 2026–2027
3‑month studio residencies with a €6,000 bursary for professional artists.
Seeking work exploring contemporary culture, Cavan themes, or interdisciplinary practice.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Ramor Arts Centre Gallery – Exhibition Proposals 2026–2027
Open to artists at all stages; selected on artistic merit, clarity and feasibility.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Cavan & Monaghan Youth Arts Bursary 2026 – €1,600 Awards
Six bursaries (3 per county) for youth arts projects with a professional artist.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Apply:https://www.youth.ie/.../cavan-monaghan-youth-arts... applications/
Cavan Co. Co. DLI Summer School Scholarships 2026
Two full residential scholarships for the DLI Summer School, UL (1–8 Aug 2026).
Includes tuition, accommodation & meals. Must already be booked on a course.
Deadline: 24 April, 5pm
Info: Drama League of Ireland – Summer School
Arts & Disability Connect – Round Two
Awards for artists with disabilities: New Work, Mentoring, Training & Research.
Deadline: 12 May, 4pm
4. PeacePlus Funding
PEACEPLUS Funding Calls Now Open Under Investment Area 1.2 – Empowering Communities
Two funding calls are now open under the PEACEPLUS Programme’s Investment Area 1.2 – Empowering Communities. This investment area is designed to help organisations across the region strengthen peacebuilding, deepen cross‑community collaboration, and contribute to a more cohesive and prosperous society.
Strand 2: Institutional Capacity Development (Second Call)
This call is open to statutory bodies, local authorities, NGOs and civic organisations that wish to enhance their organisational capacity, improve cross‑community engagement, and play a stronger role in delivering sustainable peacebuilding outcomes. Projects supported under this Strand will focus on strengthening institutions so they can better respond to the needs of diverse communities.
Strand 3: Community‑Based Safety Interventions (Second Call)
This Strand welcomes applications from community and voluntary groups working to improve safety, cohesion and trust at a local level. The focus is on practical initiatives that address community tensions, reduce harm, and create safer, more resilient neighbourhoods.
Both calls aim to support initiatives that build positive relations, promote respect for cultural diversity, and help create a society where people can live, learn and socialise together free from prejudice and intolerance
5. Working with Nature Awards
The Working with Nature Awards recognise individuals, community groups and organisations across Ireland who are actively protecting, restoring and reconnecting people with nature.
Now in its second year, the Awards celebrate impactful work across three categories:1. Biodiversity & Rewilding, 2.Nature Media, and 3.Nature Education & Wellbeing.
Open to projects of all sizes, the Awards aim to highlight real, on-the-ground action while providing a platform to share stories that inspire wider change.
Nominations are now open until 25 May, with the Awards Ceremony taking place on 2 July at Powerscourt Estate.
More information and entry details:
6. LEADER Programme OPEN
Cavan LEADER Programme 2023 - 2027 is OPEN and
accepting ‘Expressions of Interest’.
Unlock Funding Opportunities for Your
Community, Youth or Environmental
Project Today!
Cavan LEADER funding is available locally for community and other
voluntary groups to apply for support for a range of possible projects to a
maximum of €200,000 on an ongoing basis until the budget is exhausted.
In order to decipher if your project is eligible to progress to application
stage, FULLY complete an ‘expression of interest’ form and send to CCLD.
Submit your ‘expression of interest’ form now for funding to support your
community initiatives and make a difference. Full details on Cavan LEADER
23-27 and ‘expression of interest’ form is available from this link
https://www.ccld.ie/apply-for-leader-funding or the QR code below.
7. Outdoor Swimming Funds Announced
Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy announces €400,000 funding for outdoor swimming initiatives
The Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD has today announced €400,000 in funding to support participation in outdoor swimming across Ireland.
This is the third year of the Healthy Ireland initiative, which aims to support the growing popularity of outdoor swimming. Funding will be allocated to swimming projects nationwide to make them more accessible so that more people can enjoy the many health benefits of outdoor swimming. Applications for funding will be considered for designated swimming sites that wish to improve access, develop or improve changing facilities or purchase equipment to assist people with disabilities.
Minister Murnane O’Connor said:
“This scheme will enable more people to enjoy swimming at Ireland’s many designated outdoor swimming locations.
“Open water swimming has many benefits for our physical and mental health and wellbeing and provides an opportunity for people to connect with others.
“By again improving the accessibility of our range of swimming locations at rivers, lakes and coastal spots, we can continue to build on its growth in popularity and support as many people as possible, across all ages, to participate.”
The funding will be administered by Sport Ireland on behalf of the Department of Health.
CEO of Sport Ireland Dr Úna May said:
“We're delighted to be working with the Minister and the Department of Health again following the 2026 funding allocation. Together with the National Swimming Strategy, these initiatives will help more people swim outdoors - including those who live far from a pool or face economic barriers to swimming.
"Our Local Sports Partnerships have already made real progress with local authorities on access, and we look forward to building on that with Healthy Ireland and Swim Ireland in the year ahead.”
Data from the Irish Sport Monitor 2024 confirms that swimming is the second most popular participation sport in Ireland, offering a unique opportunity for inclusivity across all of society. Sport and physical activity are hugely important for our population’s physical and mental wellbeing. The administration of this fund though Ireland’s network of Local Sports Partnerships ensures that local needs and challenges are to the forefront of ensuring that the maximum return from this investment is achieved.
Following the receipt of applications, a determination of the allocation of funding will be made jointly by the Department of Health, the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, Sport Ireland, and Swim Ireland.
Applications for Healthy Ireland’s Outdoor Swimming Infrastructure Fund can be made to Sport Ireland via Sport Ireland’s network of Local Sports Partnerships.
In 2025, Healthy Ireland funding was allocated to 17 projects around Ireland, enabling broader participation by improving access, developing and enhancing changing facilities and procuring equipment to assist people with disabilities.
8- LGBTIQ+ Fund
2026 LGBTIQ+ Community Services Funding Call
There are two streams of funding under the LGBTIQ+ Community Services Fund:
Scheme A is open to applications from existing LGBTIQ+ NGOs and community organisations working with the LGBTIQ+ community to support new initiatives and to maintain and enhance existing services and initiatives.
Scheme B will provide small grants to organisations for projects that promote visibility and inclusion of LGBTIQ+ persons.
Deadline: 30 Apr
9- Animal Welfare Fund
The amounts given to charities ranged from €4,000 to €2,606,825, with the average payment being €67,735. This funding recognises the importance of the role such charities play in caring for vulnerable animals, in education and awareness-raising to improve animal welfare, which is particularly relevant, for example, in encouraging responsible pet ownership.
TRAINING
10- CLAR Information Workshop
Cavan County Council will hold a CLÁR 2026 information workshop in the Council Chamber, Courthouse, Cavan on Monday 20th April from 4pm to 6pm.Members of staff will be on-hand to give a presentation on the scheme and answer any questions potential applicants may have.
See CLÁR - Cavan County Council for more information.
11- Active Citizenship
This free, online, lunch time session on April 21, from 1pm to 2pm is aimed at demystifying local politics.
Led by SHE Programme Manager Michelle Maher, it will be delivered in an informative and relaxed way.
The Introduction to Politics 1 is for anyone who wants to start to build up a bit of knowledge about what their council does.
We begin by having a look at the idea of active citizenship. It’s a phrase you hear all the time when people talk about ‘getting involved’. But what does it actually mean, and how can you do it in real life? Join us, and become an active citizen.
12- Free Community Training For CavanPPN members Cavan PPN currently has a number of training courses available to our member groups.
They are available FREE OF CHARGE for member groups.
All the courses are online and places are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Your Move: A Women's Leadership Framework for Today
Upcoming Training:
A-Z of Data Protection – Becoming & Remaining Compliant with GDPR
Cavan PPN provides access to a number of other training opportunities, all focused on community & voluntary groups/organisations. For more information, please click here.
(Please note: you must be part of a member group of Cavan PPN to avail of these training courses).
For more information, and to register, please click on the link below: Events | Cavan PPN | Public Participation Network
13- Fund Application Training
Grants are open for applications to groups in Cavan of between €10,000 and €100,000 through the PEACEPLUS Change Maker Funding Programme.
The programme is making funding available to support grassroots community groups and organisations to deliver cross community and/or cross border activity programmes.
Representatives of the programme will be in Cavan on Wednesday 22nd April and are facilitating one-to-one meetings with groups interested to apply.
If you would like to book a one-to-one meeting, to talk about a project idea, get advice on how to apply, or access support with a current application you can book a meeting by emailing changemakers@cooperationireland.org or phoning 02890 321462
The one to one meetings will take place at the following venue:
April | 22nd | Wed | 9am to 5pm | Cavan | Cavan County Local Development, Unit 6A, Corlurgan Business Park, Ballinagh Road, Cavan, H12 DP86 |
e
M: 07526 563124 (you can reach me by call, text or WhatsApp)
14 Invasive Species Training
Cavan communities training for the prevention and management of invasive species.
Cavan County Local Development is in the process of creating plans to offer community training on invasive species. This initiative aims to equip community groups, environmental organisations, landowners, and businesses in Cavan with essential skills and knowledge to:
• confidently identify invasive species, record & report species on invasives.ie (National Biodiversity Data Centre – NBDC) website.
• acquire eradication and disposal techniques for most common invasive species in County Cavan.
• establish/adopt a biosecurity policy for their community group & ensure biosecurity measures are followed.
• implement prevention and biosecurity measures to ensure that natural environment or water bodies are free of alien species, with measures in place to minimise risk or prevent unintentional introductions (public awareness campaigns).
• participate in a Training Meitheal. Hands on training at 3 different locations in Cavan to remove, eradiate & disposal of a commonly found local invasive species.
Three separate training programs will be held in County Cavan, featuring classroom sessions (May 26), hands-on workshops at demonstration sites, and a follow-up biosecurity care workshop. Each community group will receive materials to support their efforts, aiming to create a lasting legacy for ongoing biosecurity advocacy.
Further details regarding this free training opportunity will be updated to www.ccld.ie as soon as information is available about dates, times and venues.
If you live in County Cavan and want to receive more information about this training, please add your email address to our INVASIVES mailing list here. We will contact you as soon as details of the course are ready to share with you.
15 How To Be Literacy Friendly Info Hour Webinar
free lunchtime webinar called "How to be literacy friendly" on Thursday April 23 from 12.30 to 1.30 pm. Please see and share the poster attached. You can click here to join on the day
For the hour, we will discuss some simple changes to make all your communications more accessible. You will gain practical tips to make services more literacy friendly, including for people with dyslexia. You will also receive information about the many supports available for adult learners who would like to improve their reading skills. Finally, find out about free training available for any organisation who would like to become more literacy friendly.
SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS
16- New Government Digital Wallet Consult
We want to build a Government Digital Wallet that people trust and value. To support the development of the Government Digital Wallet programme, including drafting legislation and its rollout, we want to hear from you. To do that, we need to understand what you expect, what worries you may have, and how we can communicate about it in a way that is easy to understand. See full details at: Welcome to the Government Digital Wallet
17- Squirrel & Pine Marten Survey
We invite members of the public to assist with a new survey throughout 2026, to investigate the distribution of squirrels and the pine marten in Ireland. The National Biodiversity Data Centre has teamed up with University of Galway, Ulster Wildlife and Vincent Wildlife Trust in this research, which follows similar surveys conducted in 2007, 2012 and 2019. Since their introduction in 1911, the grey squirrel has spread throughout a large area of the island of Ireland. The red squirrel, impacted by competition and disease spread by the greys, has previously struggled and retracted in range as a result. In the most recent surveys in 2012 and 2019, however, the grey squirrel had been knocked back in certain areas, and this has been attributed to the recovery of another native species, the pine marten. In 2019, the red squirrel had recovered in some areas in the midlands, however, the grey squirrel continued to spread in the southwest and northwest.
Please submit sightings of red squirrels, grey squirrels and pine martens via the online record form, and include a photograph, if you have one.
18- Community, Enterprise & Volunteering Survey
The Wheel is carrying out research into skills and training needs in the community and voluntary sector workforce. The survey aims to get a clear and up-to-date picture of the experience and impact of accessing skills and training, throughout the sector. This will support the development of relevant trainings and advocacy on behalf of the 281,000 strong workforce delivering for Ireland’s communities every day.
The survey asks you to take 10 minutes to answer 25 short questions.
If you're a decision maker (i.e. CEO, General Manager, Learning and Development or Human Resources), it will take a little more time, around 25 minutes.
As a token of appreciation, The Wheel will be giving away three free places on half-day workshops. To be in with a chance of winning one of these places, please complete the survey and submit your email address by 5pm on Tuesday, 05 May 2026.
19- Hedgehog Hibernation Survey
With April in full swing and all hedgehogs now likely out of hibernation, it's time to roll up our sleeves and gather some important information needed for ourHedgehog Research & Monitoring Programme. We'd love your help to gather data for Ireland - please fill in our questionnaire!
20- 7 Minutes To Change Social Innovation in Ireland
If you’ve seen a problem, a need, or an opportunity to make a change for the better in your community, at any level, we want to make sure you get the support you need.
Whether you’re an established social innovator, supporting others within the ecosystem, or just starting down your path, your insights will help shape:
The supports we offer
How we deliver them
Who we reach
The impact we can make.
Your answers will shape and inform the tools we build and the priorities we adopt.
At the link above you'll find our brief survey which should take you roughly 7 minutes to complete and can be taken in English or as Gaeilge.
All responses are confidential and all responses are welcome!
Thank you for helping the New Solutions team in our mission to support and develop the Social Innovation Ecosystem in Ireland and beyond.
Rob
Rob Brown, Social Innovation Manager, New Solutions Social Innovation Hub
21- Healthy Ireland Framework
The Department of Health is currently undertaking a public consultation on the new Healthy Ireland Framework. They are inviting organisations and their networks to share their views and help shape the future direction of health and wellbeing policy in Ireland. The consultation is open until 22nd of April and submissions can be made online via the following link:
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
22- Age Friendly & AI
Alone Newsletter: ALONE Network News Issue 1
23- Disability Federation Ireland Newsletter
Click here to view this newsletter
24- Fairgreen Autism Awareness Day
You’re Invited: Coffee, Scones & Community
Cavan Tidy Towns is hosting a special morning to support and celebrate our local autism community.
We’re gathering at the Fairgreen Community Garden. Whether you want to share your own experiences.
It’s also a great chance to chat directly with local council staff, Cllrs, and TDs. If you've been looking for info on available grants or community support, they’ll be right there to help.
Cavan Autism Parents Support (C.A.P.S.), an incredible group doing vital work for families in our county.
Bring the kids, bring a friend, and let’s make Cavan a little more inclusive together. See you there!
25- Maximising Community Space Event for Border Communities
Rural Action and partners, Irish Rural Link (IRL) and NIRWN (NI Rural Women’s Network) are delighted to invite you to the official launch of the Maximising Community Space (MCS) Programme. A project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
This event will introduce a major new initiative, investing €2,753,293, in rural communities and in the people that manage the halls, facilities and community spaces that bring people together.
Supported by PEACEPLUS and delivered by Rural Action and partners, this regional programme will work with 40 community groups across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Cavan, Monaghan, Leitrim, Donegal, Sligo and Louth.
MCS is designed to help community organisations unlock the full potential of their spaces, making them more inclusive, more welcoming and better equipped to meet local needs. Through leadership development, practical support, new activity planning and cross‑border networking, the programme aims to strengthen shared rural spaces and build long‑term community connections.
We’d love you to join us at the launch event to hear more about the programme, meet the partners and explore how rural communities & the groups you work with could benefit.
The itinerary on the day is as follows -
1.00pm Arrival, Registration and Photos Lunch 2.05pm Welcome & Housekeeping 2.10pm The Executive Office 2.20pm Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht 2.30pm Special EU Programmes Body 2.40pm MCS Programme Overview 3.00pm Where Communuity Happens: Why Rural Spaces Still Matter 3.40pm Closing Remarks
Please register through this Eventbrite link by 12 noon on Friday 24th April.
Tel. 087 49 55 809
26- Street Feast 2026
We have so much to tell you about Street Feast 2026 on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th May! We'd love you to join us and over 1,200 Street Feast hosts for Ireland friendliest neighbourly gathering.
First up: We've been working with our partners at Tesco to upgrade our Street Feast packs with a few surprises, including vouchers (you know - every little helps ;)).
AND... we're planning some great competitions with prizes to add a little magic to your Feast. We'll be announcing them on our socials and in our newsletters, so keep your eyes peeled.
It is truly going to be the best year yet and we'd love you to be part of it!
Now the days are getting longer and brighter, its time to seize the moment and celebrate the people who live around us.
Ready to host?
Register for your free party pack with all the essentials - bunting, invitations, posters and more - just go to www.streetfeast.ie
Hosting a Street Feast is easy, all you need to do is:
Pick a place – your street, local carpark, garden or community hall - anywhere will do!
Get inviting – use our party pack essentials to help get the word out!
Bring some food – ask people to rustle up their favourite dish and best baked goods to make a great picnic - or stick on the BBQ!
Enjoy the magic – connect with your neighbours, new and old!
27- National Voter Registration Day
National Voter Registration Day is around the corner on 30th April and we wanted to share some materials with you in case you’re planning to mark the day.
Attached are materials to support your preparation, including a concept note that explains the purpose of this campaign. Please feel free to use these as convenient and add your organisation's logo if necessary (if you are here in your own capacity, that's all great). We have attached:
A Toolkit with information that may guide you (in case you’re planning to host a registration drive)
A couple of flyers for social media. If you are planning to organise a registration drive, the flyer with the white box may be useful for inserting details such as the location and time of your activity (please use font verdana)
Backslides in green and orange in case you want to create your own content related to this year’s theme, “Have Your Say: Engaging with Public Representatives.” (use font verdana)
NVRD Logo
SAVE THE DAY: Online Launch NVRD
We are organising an online launch of NVRD on 29th April from 1–2pm, where members of the Electoral Commission will give a few inputs about the initiative, and a number of public representatives will discuss Why and How our communities can engage with them. We are co-hosting this launch with SeeHerElected. Please save the day, eventbrite link to follow.
If you’re hosting a Reg Drive, we will need from you:
Time and location of your registration drive
Contact details of the person coordinating NVRD at your centre (name, email, and phone number)
Your organisation’s logo (high-resolution PNG with transparent background or EPS format)
We will send you a printable poster for your table – this will need to be printed in A3
(Optional for everyone) A short video from you as a community leader or on behalf of your organisation speaking about the importance of registering (and voting) and engaging with public representatives— see the Concept notes for ideas on the four phases campaign. Please send this in vertical format and no longer than 1 minute or upload and tag us on our social media!
Disseminate info about online session on 29th April from 1-2pm to our target groups (ISL will be available)
Encourage as many people as possible to register or update their details on the day or before (especially recently naturalised citizens!)
We look forward to engaging with you on this occasion and in the future. Supporting and educating our communities is an ongoing commitment.
28- Discuss Rural Isolation in Swanlinbar
29- SunSmart Campaign
The annual SunSmart campaign is run by the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), in collaboration with Healthy Ireland and cross-sectoral partners. We are working together to support people to reduce their risk of skin cancer by protecting their skin from the sun.
The aim of the campaign is to reduce your risk of skin cancer by increasing awareness and engagement with the steps you, your family, friends and colleagues can take to protect your skin from the sun
This partner pack contains information, video links and image links for your use and to share with your own networks to support the 2026 SunSmart campaign.
30- The Irish Family History Society Calls You
I'm writing to you on behalf of The Irish Family History Society. We are a not for profit organisation promoting Irish family history and genealogy worldwide. While the majority of our activities are on Zoom, we do hold occasional In-Person activities. Our Annual one day Conference is both In-Person and on Zoom. While we don't do actual research we aim to teach and help our members how to do their own research. I'd like to inform you of some upcoming events we are running , which may be of interest or benefit to any of your members trying to trace their Irish ancestry and heritage.
Last autumn we ran a course over 5 weeks showing how to navigate online, mostly free, records and also the benefits of some paid sites and how to get the best for your investment. These courses were recorded and remain on our website (www.ifhs.ie) for members only free access. We have many other resources available free to members via our website.
In April we are running a 3 week course, which will follow on from the autumn series. We are focusing on the 'what next' and taking case studies to show where you go when you have exhausted the obvious and the free sites. The keynote study will be given by the inimitable John Grenham, Mr Irish Genealogy, an unmissable opportunity to get to ask questions of the expert! His book "Tracing Your Irish Ancestors" is the standard guide to Irish family history.
We will be running a further short course in September focussing on the content and context of the different timeframes in which we are searching for records. The whys and wherefores of finding records in Ireland and additional knowledge that will aid you in your searches. Courses are free to members.
We also run monthly talks, free to members on Zoom, on the 3rd Tuesday of the month @ 7.30 pm local Irish time on subjects of interest to those searching for Irish Ancestors. When the presenters are agreeable we record & make these talks available for a period of time for members only.
Our Annual Conference is a 1 day event in Dublin each year held both In-Person and on Zoom We have great speakers, spot prizes and lunch. The Theme this year is The Irish Diaspora ; Emigration & Immigration and Early-Bird booking is now open. All details www.ifhs.ie
Membership of The Irish Family History Society is €25 per year and runs from January to December. We also run members-only informal Zoom 'Meet-Ups' several times a year where you can get help with questions, conundrums and brick walls.
31- AKIDWA Men's Workshops for IPA's
32- Outcomers Louth, Meath, Cavan & Monaghan
Outcomers provides supports across Louth, Meath, Cavan and Monaghan for LGBT+ People and their families, and would love to ensure that while this meeting takes place in our community centre in Dundalk that services from Cavan have the equal opportunity to attend.
On Tuesday, April 14th, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, Outcomers and LGBT Ireland are hosting an Information and Networking Event focused on supporting and caring for older LGBTQIA+ people in our community.
The evening will include:
- An introduction to the LGBT Champions Programme and what inclusive practice looks like in real settings
- A panel discussion featuring health professionals, community advocates, and an older LGBTQIA+ community member sharing lived experience
- Opportunities to learn about local supports, referral pathways, and capacity‑building resources
- Time to connect with others committed to inclusive, affirming care
This event is open to health and social care professionals, LGBTQIA+ community members, and anyone interested in strengthening inclusive practice for older people. You can find full details and register through Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/outcomers-caring-for-older-lgbtqia-people-in-the-community-tickets-1984043671029?aff=oddtdtcreator
33- Women In Nature Nominations Open
Across the country, women are playing a vital role in nature restoration. They are rewetting peatlands, regenerating farms, protecting rivers, building local initiatives, shaping policy, educating communities, and reimagining what stewardship can look like in a changing Ireland.
Many do this work without public recognition. They are quietly fighting for their environment and community, leading the way to a brighter, wilder future.
34- Viginia Wins Nationally At Aviva
Virginia College Student crowned National Winner of Intro to Ag at the Aviva
Stadium
Agri Aware and Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board (LOETB) are delighted to announce that Sean Duffy from Virginia College has been crowned the national winner of the Intro to Ag Transition Year programme.
Farmer and entrepreneur Kaleb Cooper was one of the special guests at the Intro to Ag Fair
yesterday, Monday, 13 April at the Aviva Stadium.
Sean Duffy’s project on vacuum silage making was one of 14 projects presented across six schools and was chosen as the National Winner of the programme by judges who were impressed by the project’s innovation, the model developed to demonstrate the idea, and the strong delivery of the overall presentation.
The Intro to Ag Transition Year (TY) programme is designed to encourage students to take
Agricultural Science for Senior Cycle, while also introducing them to Further Education and Training (FET) pathways, and career opportunities within the agri sector.
This unique event showcased the learnings from the programme, while also demonstrating to
stakeholders in the agri-food sector the work Agri Aware and LOETB are actively implementing in this area of second level education.
As part of his guest appearance, Kaleb sat down and spoke about his journey to date from becoming a farmer and contractor in the Cotswolds, to appearing on the hit Prime Video series ‘Clarkson’s Farm’ and to travelling to the other side of the world sharing his story from humble beginnings to worldwide fame which has helped to shine a light on the agricultural sector in the UK and further afield. Kaleb was joined by beef and tillage farmer and YouTube sensation Philip Stewart, otherwise known as ‘Farmer Phil’, while Katie Gleeson also known as ‘Katie in the Country’ chaired the insightful panel.
Speaking after the conclusion of the Intro to Ag Fair, Agri Aware Chair Shay Galvin said:
“Congratulations to Sean Duffy from Virginia College on being crowned National Winner of the Intro to Ag programme. The winning project showed significant thought and effort in addressing an issue that many farmers face. It clearly reflected the core aim of the Intro to Ag programme which is to encourage students to explore and develop an interest in agriculture”
Also commenting at the Intro to Ag Fair event was LOETB’s FET Director Tony Dalton who said, ‘The standard of projects presented on the day was exceptional, with some really innovative ideas in the room. Huge congratulations to Sean from Virginia College. What’s particularly encouraging is that a large proportion of participants came from non-farming backgrounds. The sector needs this level of innovation and diversity of people. The aim is for this programme to serve as a catalyst in increasing interest in Agricultural Science at senior cycle, and ultimately encourage progression into further and higher-level agricultural education programmes- helping to build a strong and sustainable pipeline of talent in agriculture”
Above: Sean Duffy from Virginia College was crowned national winner at the Intro to Ag Fair, held at the Aviva Stadium
35- An Evening with The Cottage Market Cavan
Theatre | Community | Food
Join The Cottage Market Cavan for a unique evening of theatre, conversation and local food.
The night begins with What Are We Eatin’ Anyways? A 40-minute comedy-drama following Jimmy and Bernie as they navigate modern food choices and discover a local food initiative right on their doorstep. Funny, heartfelt and relatable, the performance explores the realities of our food system and the power of choosing local.
Following the performance, audiences are invited to continue the conversation in a relaxed, informal setting, alongside a dining experience featuring the Local Green Bowl – a simple, seasonal dish made with Green Box ingredients and prepared by Shercock-based chef Elizabeth Harpur Quinones.
Food pre-booking will be available shortly after ticket purchase.
SAVE THE DATE:
Ramor Arts Theatre, Virginia: Saturday 2nd May | 8pm
Cavan Arts Centre, Cavan Town: Saturday 23rd May | 8pm
TICKETS: Available now via the Ramor and Cavan Arts Centre websites.
(Note: Food pre-booking will be available to ticket holders shortly after purchase - watch your inbox!)
36- Hands Off Nature Campaign
Tell your decision makers to keep their #HandsOffNature!
The Irish Wildlife Trust stands with our fellow members of the Irish Environmental Network and environmental NGOs across the EU to say Hands Off Nature. Now is the time to raise our voices louder, stand together, and tell polluters and lawmakers: our health, our nature, our future are not up for grabs. 100 trees are lost every minute due to EU consumption. The EU can still turn it around.If policymakers finally enforce the EU Deforestation Regulation, we could save up to 50 million trees annually and keep our air clean by preventing millions of tonnes of CO₂ emissions.Right now, destructive industries are pushing hard to dismantle the law. We can’t let them win. Sign the EU-wide petition to protect forests now.
37- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th
38- Cavan Best Kept Estate
Calling all Cavan estates, we have seen and heard about great work being done in estate by their residents and have been decided to look for Cavan Best Kept Estate.
Send us photos, summary or any information you have on work that has been done in your estate since last summer by May 1st
We will be naming the winning estate and providing them with an award.
39- Cavan's Cures Event
Join us as Sarah McKenna Dunne launches her powerful new book exploring the people of Cavan and surrounding counties who hold “the cure” — an ancient tradition still alive in modern Ireland.
For two years, Sarah travelled the region meeting healers, collecting stories, and asking:
Who are the people with cures?
How did they get them?
Why do they continue the practice?
Can these traditions be passed on?
Featuring artwork by Margaret McKenna and photography by Lorraine Teevan, this book offers a rare insight into a disappearing tradition.
Cavan County Museum
8 May 2026
7:30pm
Suitable for all ages — especially those who love storytelling, heritage, and local history.
Booking advised - contact Cavan County Museum
049 854 4070
This project is funded by CreativeIrl and Cavan County Council through Creative Cavan Open Call Grants.
40- Free Electrical Recycling Drop Offs in Cavan
ERP Free Electrical Recycling Drop Off Events 2026
Ballyjamesduff – The Mart
Thursday, 9 May 2026
10am to 4pm
Virginia – Lidl Car Park
Saturday, 20 June 2026
10am to 4pm
You can drop off any household item with a plug, cable or battery — big or small — including TVs, washing machines, IT equipment, power tools, mobile phones, battery‑operated toys, wireless earbuds and even used vapes!
41 Save the Date for Belturbet Spring Festival!
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