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Cavan Community ENews 17.7.26

  • Jul 14
  • 24 min read

Updated: Jul 16

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 (569 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: CavanPPN's Meitheal Workshop scheduled for July will NOT now take place. We will notify community members of the September and November events in the coming weeks. Many Thanks, Daniel


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


FUNDING

1. FUNDING: Full Circle Sustainability Awards

2. FUNDING: Movement for Good Awards

3. FUNDING: Perigus Energy Community Benefit Fund

4. FUNDING: Wildlife Acoustics Grant 5. FUNDING: Participation Arts Award

6. FUNDING: Culture Ireland Grant 7. FUNDING:  ORIS Scheme

8. FUNDING: Water Heritage Grant

9. FUNDING: SIOL Funding Program 2026 10. FUNDING: Arts Council Awards 2027


TRAINING 11. TRAINING: Women in Leadership, Advocacy & Engagement 12. TRAINING: Social Innovation Lab Workshops 13. TRAINING: CMETB Autumn Courses 14. TRAINING: Tackle Disinformation Cap Building For 18-30 Year Olds 15. Peace of Mind Youth 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: Cavan Bus Service Survey 20.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Shape Europe's Digital Future 21.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Traveller Mental Health Consultation 22.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: National Hydrogen Strategy 23.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Identify Cavan Bathing Sites Near You NOW! 24.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: The Disability Act Consultation 25. Sunbed Public Consultation Findings



EVENTS & OTHER NEWS 26. Ballinagh Folly Fest 27. Wiki Loves Earth Ireland 28. Cavan Community Connectors 29-  Bruse Hill Steps & Stories Event 30- Rural Revive To Assist Employers & Employees

31- Malin to Corlough Fundraising Cycle 32 -Join the Border Region Community Water Team 33 - Three Provinces Festival in Arva 34- '74 Summers' Exhibit in Cavan Town 35- More Support for Direct Community Democracy At Local Level Needed 36- Summer Cottage Market 37- Swanlinbar Tractor Run 38- Games & Chess Club In Ballyconnell 39- Ambient Festival in Killykeen Forest!!! 40 Protecting Minority Communities Against Online Disinformation 41- CavanSPCA Dog Show 42- Cuilcagh Camino Coming Up! 43- Bilberry Fun Run At Loughanleagh 44- Status Orange Fire Warning In Effect! 45- Council Issues Algae Bloom Warning! 46 Tullacmongan Family Fun Day 47. Farewell to Finian McNamara




CavanPPN Bids Farewell to Administrator Finian McNamara (see last item)
CavanPPN Bids Farewell to Administrator Finian McNamara (see last item)



FUNDING

  1. Full Circle Sustainability Awards

Hi there,

I hope you are well. I am delighted to announce the launch of the Full Circle Awards 2026, Circular.ie's celebration of Circular Champions! These awards recognise outstanding individuals and groups who are making reuse, repair, repurposing, sharing and upcycling part of everyday life across the country.


The winners will receive:


  • €2,000 prize to support their circular work

  • Unique handcrafted trophy made from upcycled materials

  • Media exposure through Circular.ie and associated press

Award categories include:



  • Repair and Reuse Champion

  • Community Circular Champion

  • Creative Circular Design

  • Circular Living Advocate

  • Best Community Campaign

  • Circular Sports Champion


We're looking for people who are genuinely making a difference through their circular practices and inspiring others to follow suit.



We would be grateful if you could help us reach more potential nominees by sharing this announcement with your networks and colleagues who might be connected to circular economy initiatives.  Here is a Google Drive folder that includes a press release with details of the awards, a social media carousel, launch photos and A4 poster PDF's.



Photo caption for launch images: "Eibhlin Fitzpatrick, Community Manager, Circular.ie, launching the Full Circle Awards 2026 at The Rediscovery Centre, Ballymun, Dublin" Photo Credit: Mark Stedman



Nominate your Circular Champion here:   Full Circle Awards 2026



The nomination deadline is July 24th, so we encourage submissions to be made as soon as possible.



Thank you for helping us celebrate and support Ireland's Circular Champions!

 



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.   Participatory Arts Award

Participatory Arts Project Award 2027 - 23rd July


The Participatory Arts Project Award is an Arts Council award that supports proposals from professional artists or arts organisations with a track record in Participatory Arts to collaborate artistically with non-arts professionals (people that do not work professionally in the arts) in the development, creation and/or presentation of artistic work.


Individuals and groups (communities of place or interest) are an integral part of the artistic process, contributing to and influencing artistic content, outcomes and outputs. 


Deadline: 5.30pm Thursday 23rd July 2026




6.        Culture Ireland Grant

Culture Ireland Grants

Culture Ireland offers support to Irish professional artists, arts organisations and international presenters to present work by Irish artists at significant international venues and festivals.

In supporting an event, Culture Ireland traditionally offers grant funding towards costs which relate directly to the international presentation of the event, i.e. travel and travel related costs such as transport, freight, accommodation and subsistence. 

Deadline: 5 August



7.      ORIS Fund


Cavan County Council and Cavan County Local Development are inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) for project proposals under Measure 1, Measure 2, and Project Development Measure of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme.


The scheme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the Gaeltacht, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland.




8- Water Heritage Grant


Water Heritage Grants Scheme 2026 - 20th July


Community groups are invited to host an event to celebrate Water Heritage Day

The Local Authority Waters Programme and Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, are inviting community groups to apply for funding to mark Water Heritage Day on Sunday 23rd August.


€30,000 in grant funding is available through the Water Heritage Grants Scheme 2026 for community-led events and initiatives that celebrate local water heritage and promote awareness of water quality. Events will be held during Heritage Week 2026.


Deadline: 5.30pm 20th July 2026






9- SIOL Funding Programme 2026

 

Expressions of Interest for project proposals under the SÍOL programme 2026.  

 

Please note that the eligible areas in County Cavan are the DEDs of Cavan Urban, Cavan Rural, Moynehall, Clonervy and Ballyhaise

The scheme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development & the Gaeltacht .

Terms & conditions including documentation are available via this link : http://www.cavancoco.ie/siol

 

Closing date for receipt of Expression of Interest is 27th July at 5pm




10- Arts Council Project Awards 2027

Project Award 2027 - Arts Council - 23rd July


The Project Award supports specific projects across various artforms.


It focuses on enabling individual artists and organisations to bring their ideas to fruition and create excellent artistic work. 


There are a number of artforms or arts practices to choose from:

Architecture Project Award 2027

Children and Young People's Award 2027

Circus Project Award 2027

Dance Projects Award 2027

Film Project Award 2027

Literature Project Award 2027

Music Project Award 2027

Participatory Arts Project Award 2027

Street Performance and Spectacle Project Award 2027

Theatre Project Award 2027 - Round 1

Traditional Arts Project Award 2027

Visual Arts Project Award 2027


Deadline: 5.30pm Thursday 23rd July 2026







TRAINING

11- Women in Leadership, Advocacy & Engagement

BRAVE project launched to empower women with leadership, advocacy, and community engagement skills


The Training for Women Network (TWN) and project partners The Bloody Sunday Trust and Glencree Centre for Peace and Reconciliation, have launched the innovative, cross-community/cross-border BRAVE Project (Building Resilience and Advancing Violence-free Environments). The partners will bring women together in a cross-border / cross-community learning environment and support them to become active citizens in advancing meaningful social change and long-term peace and reconciliation throughout the island of Ireland.‘BRAVE’s’ primary objective is to empower women with leadership, advocacy, and community engagement skills, BRAVE aims to dismantle coercive structures, counter radicalisation, and build safer, more resilient communities.Expected changes include improved networks, an increase of women leaders driving systemic change and a reduction of coercive paramilitary control, far-right extremism, gender-based violence, and drug-related crime.A series of information roadshows will run across Northern Ireland and the border counties to inform women of the project and begin the recruitment process.




12- Social Innovation Lab Workshop


What is the New Solutions Social Innovation Lab?  

Launching its first series of workshops in October 2026, the New Solutions Social Innovation Lab is a practical, step-by-step programme designed to help people turn ideas for social change into real, testable solutions.  

Made up of 8 workshops, combining online sessions with in-person events, delivered by experienced practitioners and subject experts, The Lab is a structured development programme where participants will: 

  • Explore and define a social problem  

  • Develop and shape an idea in response  

  • Test and refine that idea in practice  

  • Build the skills needed to progress beyond the Lab.

Who is it for?  

The Lab is designed specifically for early-stage or prospective social innovators: 

  • People with an idea (or the beginning of one)  

  • People who are passionate about a social issue they want to address  

  • Community activists, volunteers, or those involved in local initiatives  

  • Students or graduates interested in social innovation  

  • Anyone with lived experience of a social challenge.

The Lab is a project of the wider New Solutions Social Innovation Fund, which aims to strengthen the social innovation ecosystem in Ireland and support new ideas to emerge and grow. 

To find out more and learn how to apply for your FREE place, visit www.new-solutions.ie/social-innovation-lab before 5PM on 31 July 2026.  





13- CMETB Autumn Classes The new CMETB Adult Education course timetables for Autumn 2026 are available on:

Bookings can be made through fetchcourses.ie or by ringing or emailing one of our centres.


(Please note: you must be part of a member group of Cavan PPN to avail of these training courses).



14- Tackle Disinformation Cap Building for 18-30 Year Olds ChangingTIDE is an EU-funded project that aims to counter disinformation by building capacity for grassroots action. As part of the project, DCU FuJo is seeking young adults (18–30 years) to join a Media Literacy Incubator on 30 July at the DCU St Pat’s Campus. Participation is free of charge. Those interested can use this online form to apply. 





15- Peace of Mind Programme


I hope you’re keeping well and thankyou for taking my call, I must of got the wrong email adress - apologies!

My name is Roma McCusker and I’m the PEACE of Mind project Youth facilitator at Inspire.  

I’m reaching out because at Inspire we know how much pressure young people are under at the moment and how important it is that they have spaces where they feel heard, supported and understood. 

For more than six decades, Inspire has supported people across our communities with person-centred mental health services. That experience sits at the core of PEACE of Mind, shaping a programme designed to meet young people where they are and respond to the challenges they face today. 

While working closely with young people across Northern Ireland and the border counties, many are telling us the same things:  

·         They’re overwhelmed 

·         They’re trying to cope with a lot 

·         They value having somewhere safe to talk and learn skills that help them feel more grounded.  

 

Peace of Mind is a fully funded programme for young people aged 11–25, offering practical wellbeing sessions led by trained Youth Facilitators. Our focus is simple:  

·         Create supportive environments  

·         Assist young people to make sense of what they’re feeling  

·         Help young people develop tools they can use in everyday life. 



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-  Cavan Bus Service Survey

Cavan Comhairle na nÓg is undertaking a survey on bus infrastructure in the county and members of the public are invited to share their thoughts and experiences. Complete the survey by visiting https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/V38BQK6 



20-  Shape Europe's Digital Future

Have your say in shaping the digital future of Europe's social economy!

As part of this study, Eurofound is conducting an online survey addressed to social economy organisations throughout the European Union. 

By taking part, your organisation helps increase the visibility of the social economy within Europe’s digital transformation and ensures that its specific characteristics and needs are adequately reflected in EU-level analysis and policymaking.




21-  Traveller Mental Health Consult


Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler announces a new consultation process to inform the development of the Traveller Mental Health Action Plan

Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler TD today announced a series of consultation sessions with the Traveller community which will be hosted by Traveller organisations, including Exchange House Ireland, Pavee Point, the Traveller Counselling Service and the National Traveller Mental Health Network, to inform the development of a new Traveller Mental Health Action Plan.

In addition, an online survey has been opened for anyone who is interested in contributing to the consultation. The consultation process – including consultation sessions and online survey – will be open between now and the end of July 2026.

The Traveller Mental Health Action Plan is co-developed by the Traveller Mental Health Specialist Group, which was formed by the Department of Health under the structures of the National Implementation and Monitoring Committee (NIMC) for Sharing the Vision, Ireland’s national mental health policy, at the request of Minister Butler, in January 2026. The Specialist Group aims to deliver the Action Plan by the end of the year.

The Specialist Group is chaired by Dr Fiona Keogh and membership is drawn from the NIMC, Government Departments, the Health Service Executive (HSE), Traveller organisations, and members of the Traveller community with lived and living experience of mental health difficulties. The Specialist Group is also supported by a Lived Experience Reference Group which is facilitated by Exchange House Ireland and the National Suicide Research Foundation (NSRF).

The consultation process will ensure that the lived and living experience of Travellers continues to play a central role in delivering a new Traveller Mental Health Action Plan.

Minister Butler said:

“Publishing the Traveller Mental Health Action Plan is a priority for me. I have listened to and engaged with Travellers from across the country and the message I heard was clear. We need a cross-government and culturally appropriate plan to address the disproportionate rate of suicide in the Traveller Community. The voices of Travellers must inform the plan to ensure it delivers meaningful change. I want to encourage members of the Traveller Community to take part in the consultation and have your voices heard.”

If you are a member of the Traveller community and would like to participate in a consultation session to help develop the Traveller Mental Health Action Plan, you can register your interest at the following link: Traveller Mental Health Action Plan Consultation Sessions – Fill in form.

If you would like to take part in an online survey, which is open to anyone, and to inform the development of the Traveller Mental Health Action Plan, you can do so at the following link: Traveller Mental Health Action Plan Online Survey.

In recent Budgets, Minister Butler has prioritised Traveller mental health and funded a number of dedicated initiatives, with combined additional funding of €780,000 over the past two years. The additional funding has been used to expand counselling service capacity and develop more culturally appropriate mental health supports with the Traveller community. As a result, the number of clients supported by the Traveller Counselling Service increased by 50% towards the end of 2025 compared with the previous year.



22- National Hydrogen Strategy

The aim of this consultation is to gather evidence to gather information from parties considering, planning, or actively developing geological hydrogen storage projects in Ireland. This call for evidence supports the implementation of Ireland's National Hydrogen Strategy (Actions 9 and 10), particularly the strategic objectives relating to energy system flexibility, security of supply, long-duration energy storage, and the integration of renewable electricity.

The information gathered will help inform future policy development, regulatory design, spatial planning, and infrastructure coordination to support the emergence of a safe, secure, and commercially viable hydrogen economy in line with Ireland’s climate and energy targets.




23.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Identify Cavan Bathing Sites Near You NOW!

Local authorities must identify official bathing areas in their area every year so that they can be monitored for safety, water quality and their level of use.  To help with this process, Cavan County Council is asking people who swim at beaches, lakes and rivers to tell them if they think they should maintain existing designated bathing waters designations or give a new official bathing area designation to areas that are commonly used for swimming, but not identified at the moment.


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.




25- Sunbed Public Consult Findings

Minister Murnane O’Connor publishes Sunbeds Public Consultation Report

The Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD, has today published the Sunbeds Public Consultation Report. The Report sets out the views received from members of the public, health workers, industry, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other stakeholders on a proposed ban on commercial sunbed use. 

The public consultation was launched on 25 July 2025 and ran until 3 October 2025. It was undertaken as part of the Government’s work to progress the Programme for Government commitment to explore ways to ban commercial sunbed use in Ireland.

The public consultation received 9,320 survey responses from residents in Ireland. The majority of respondents self-assigned as members of the public, while responses were also received from health workers, industry representatives, NGOs and others. Eleven written submissions were also received from organisations through the dedicated consultation mailbox. 

The Report provides important insights into the views and opinions on a proposed ban on commercial sunbed use.  

Speaking today, Minister Murnane O’Connor said:

“I welcome the publication of the Sunbeds Public Consultation Report, which provides valuable insight into the views of people and organisations on commercial sunbed use in Ireland. The consultation shows that this is a complex policy issue, with strongly held views across the public, health, industry and stakeholder groups.

The Government is committed to progressing this work in an evidence-based and proportionate way. This Report will inform the next phase of policy development, alongside legal, economic, EU and public health considerations.”

The Sunbeds Public Consultation identified divergence in attitudes towards a potential ban on commercial sunbed use. Many respondents did not support a ban on commercial sunbed use, citing personal choice, confidence, appearance, mental health, perceived benefits for skin conditions, and concerns that a ban could lead to sunbed use into unregulated settings. 

At the same time, the Sunbeds Public Consultation identified support from public health, NGOs, patient advocacy and environmental health stakeholders for enhanced public health measures, including a ban, on the basis of cancer prevention, child protection and reducing exposure to a known carcinogen. 

Minister Murnane O’Connor added:

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the Sunbeds Public Consultation, including members of the public, health professionals, advocacy organisations, community representatives and industry stakeholders. Their contributions will help ensure that future policy decisions are transparent and informed.

Policy options will be brought to Government for decision following completion of further policy analysis and EU engagement.”  


  • The Public Consultation on a potential ban on commercial sunbed use in Ireland was launched on 25 July 2025 and closed on 3 October 2025. 

  • The consultation received 9,320 survey responses from residents in Ireland and 11 written submissions from organisations. 

  • The Programme for Government includes a commitment to explore ways to ban commercial sunbed use in Ireland. 

  • The Department’s next phase of work includes legal, economic, EU and public health considerations before policy options are brought to Government for decision. 


EVENTS & OTHER NEWS



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-  Wiki Loves Earth

Wiki Loves Earth Ireland 2026 - 31st July


This is not a funding stream, but is an opportunity to showcase Irish natural heritage, which in turn can help play a part in ensuring its protection.

Wiki Loves Earth Ireland 2026 is the 7th edition of Wiki Loves Earth in Ireland.

Participants will take pictures of local natural protected areas, and upload them to Wikimedia Commons. The aim of the contest is to highlight the Irish natural heritage across the island of Ireland to encourage people to capture pictures and to put them under a free licence which can be re-used not only in Wikipedia but everywhere by everyone.


Deadline; 31st July 2026






28- Cavan Community Connectors Program with the HSE

Cavan Monaghan Community Connectors


“Building Community Connections and Support Networks”


HSE Connecting for Life Cavan Monaghan in partnership with Cavan Monaghan Connects,

Mental Health Ireland, Monaghan CYPSC and Cavan Monaghan ETB, is seeking to identify

volunteers who live or work in the area and want to make a positive difference to the health

and wellbeing of people in their community.

This initiative seeks to develop a Network of ‘Community Connectors’ – representatives of local

community/voluntary groups who are passionate about supporting mental health and

wellbeing in the community. Volunteers will be trusted, active members of their community.

Volunteers will be expected to already be connected to a local well-established community/

voluntary group with good governance procedures in place.

Role of a Community Connector – what will you be asked to do:

 To act as a channel for information flow between statutory services and your local

community, sharing reliable health and wellbeing information with friends, family, and

your wider community networks.

 In doing so, Community Connectors would empower people to make their own

informed decisions about health and wellbeing, promote help-seeking behaviour and

improve access to services.

Volunteers selected to undertake training to fulfil the role of Community Connector will be

connected to an existing local community/voluntary group. As a result, the Community

Connector volunteer will be guided by and adhere to the policies and procedures in place

through their local community/voluntary group.

Your background/qualities – what are we looking for in a Community Connector:

 While no previous experience of working in the mental health and wellbeing sector is

required, it will be important that the volunteers have a particular interest in this area,

have good listening skills and can support and signpost with empathy and compassion.

 It is important to highlight that the role of Community Connector is purely an

information sharing, supportive role being undertaken on a voluntary basis within the

respective community.


 The role does not entail any form of crisis support or counselling. Details on where to

signpost someone who may be in crisis will be included as part of the training sessions.

Please note that more than one volunteer is welcomed from the voluntary/community group so

that the role is shared and for peer support.

What will we provide to support you in this voluntary role:

 Information on local, national and online wellbeing supports in order to help signpost

people to relevant support and health services.

 Information and training on key wellbeing initiatives available locally and online aimed

at supporting people’s mental health and wellbeing.

 Opportunity to become part of a trusted network. Meetings for the Network will be

facilitated for Community Connectors to meet and share experiences and receive on-

going support. Information on local and national health and wellbeing news will be

shared with members of the Community Connectors Network.

 A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to all volunteers who complete the training

sessions for Community Connectors.


Please note this is an initial Expression of Interest (EOI) process with no commitment expected

at this stage. Further details will be provided at an information evening to explore the role and

clarify any queries. More details on the type of training and the timeframe involved will also be

discussed at the information evening. All EOI’s will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Please complete the EOI form attached and return by the deadline noted – Friday 10 th July 2026.





29- Bruse Hill Steps & Stories


Discover the stories behind Bruse Hill…



Join us for a guided evening walk through one of our area’s most scenic trails. Take in the beautiful surroundings, hear the local stories and enjoy great company along the way.



Whether you’re a keen walker, a local history enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing summer evening, we’d love to see you there!



Tuesday, 28th July


6:30pm


Meet at Coronea Church (H12 HN53)





30-  Rural Revive Supporting Cavan Jobseekers & Employers

Rural Revive – Supporting Employers and Jobseekers in Rural Communities

Rural Revive is a new EU Lead programme that helps people aged 45+ return to employment while supporting local employers to address recruitment challenges. The programme connects employers with motivated candidates in counties Cavan & Monaghan who bring valuable skills, experience, and life knowledge to the workplace.

Employers receive financial support, including a wage subsidy and mentoring assistance, while participants benefit from meaningful employment opportunities and ongoing support throughout their placement.

Rural Revive is helping to create more age-inclusive workplaces, strengthen local businesses, and support thriving rural communities.

For more information, contact Cavan ESO officer Laura Brady on 087 6574675.





31- Malin to Corlough Fundraising Cycle

Malin to Corlough Fundraising Cycle – In Aid of Corlough First Responders



On 18th July, a dedicated group of local cyclists will take on the incredible challenge of cycling from Malin Head to Corlough to raise much-needed funds for Corlough First Responders.



Corlough First Responders is a voluntary group of trained local people who provide vital emergency care in our community while an ambulance is on its way. Working in conjunction with the National Ambulance Service, they respond to emergencies including:



Heart Attacks


Cardiac Arrests


Strokes


Choking Incidents


The group provides an essential service across Corlough, Templeport and Swanlinbar, helping to deliver potentially life-saving care in those critical first minutes before professional medical assistance arrives.



None of us ever know when we or a loved one might need this service. Having trained responders living within our communities can make a real difference when every second counts.



This fundraising cycle aims to help ensure that Corlough First Responders can continue their vital work and maintain the equipment and training needed to serve our area.



We are asking everyone to get behind the cyclists and support this fantastic cause. Every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a difference and help keep this invaluable community service available for the people who need it most.





Thank you to everyone who donates, shares the fundraiser, and supports the cyclists taking on this challenge for our community.


32- Join the Border Region Community Water Team

Join our Communities team in the Border region! We are hiring two Community Water Officers, one covering Louth and north Monaghan, and one covering Cavan and south Monaghan.



Closing date: 23rd July at 4pm.



Help us work with communities to protect and restore their local water bodies.



Learn more at lawaters.ie/careers



33-  Arva 3 Province Festival






34- 74 Summers Exhibition in Cavan You are warmly invited to attend the opening of ‘74 Summers’, a solo exhibition by visual artist Brigid Mulligan on Saturday 25 July, Townhall Arts Centre Cavan at 5:00 p.m.

 

Through film, installation, cyanotype print, photography and neon work, 74 Summers explores themes of family, memory, loss and resilience. Drawing on personal experiences and family history, the exhibition creates space for reflection on grief, remembrance and the enduring power of community.

 

Brigid Mulligan's work has been exhibited nationally and is recognised for its sensitive exploration of personal and collective memory through contemporary visual art practice.


35- More Support For Community Voices Needed


More support and REAL collaboration (not tokenism) needed for PPNs:

How do we tackle the ever growing topic of topic of democratic disaffection and disengagement in communities?

Séamus Boland, President of the European Economic and Social Committee, the EU body representing civil society, writes:

"This is about more than building trust. Giving communities a say in the decisions that affect them leads not only to greater buy-in but also to better outcomes... Not consultation as a box-ticking exercise, but sustained, two-way dialogue as participatory democracy."





36- Summer Cottage Market

THE SUMMER COTTAGE MARKET RETURNS TO CAVAN WITH STREET FOOD, LIVE ART, AND SUSTAINABILITY

The highly anticipated Summer Cottage Market Event 2026 is officially back. Taking place on Saturday, July 18th and Sunday, July 19th from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm, this fully outdoor, free summer celebration will transform the beautiful grounds of Con Smith Park, Cathedral Rd, Cavan (H12 E426) into a vibrant showcase of local artisan talent, food, and culture.

This year’s market features over 40+ proud Cavan-based vendors across food, arts, crafts, and community.


Con Smith Park, Cavan H12 E426


Sat 18th – Sun 19th July 2026


12pm – 6pm



37- Swanlinbar Tractor Run







38- Games & Chess Club In Ballyconnell


 FAMILY GAMES & CHESS CLUB

Every second Tuesday over the summer were hosting a Games & Chess Club for all ages - young, old and everyone in-between. The aim of the club is to socialise, make friends and learn new skills.

We will provide a selection of games for people to learn and play, but feel free to bring your own games too! We hope to be able to offer classes in chess in the winter.

This is a family-friendly club and all national school children need to be accompanied by an adult at all times. All secondary school children need to give details of a parent/guardian.

Please fill out the form below to register your interest and get more info:






39- Ambient Festival in Killykeen Forest!!!

You’re invited to Ambient Music Festival in Killykeen Forest!!! Join us for a full day of homegrown original music on Bank Holiday Monday, 03/08/26. Tickets are limited for this first-time event, so be sure to grab yours early. Click the link below, and see you there!




40 Protect Minority Communities Against Online Disinformation

MinDiShield supports minority communities against online disinformation

Across Europe, misleading narratives, hate speech, conspiracy theories and extremist messaging increasingly target ethnic and religious minority communities, shaping perceptions, deepening divisions and undermining trust. In response to this urgent challenge, the new EU-funded project MinDiShield – Combating Online Minority-Related Disinformation has been launched to strengthen resilience, promote media literacy and support communities in navigating the digital information landscape safely and confidently.More





41- CavanSPCA Dog Show

Starts at 2pm




42- Cuilcagh Camino






43- Bilberry Fun Run at Loughanleagh


Bilberry Fun Run at Loughanleagh - Where Heritage Meets the Trail

The sunshine has done its job, and the bilberries are beginning to appear across Loughanleagh ahead of our inaugural Bilberry Fun Run on Friday, 31 July. 

Did you know that bilberries are one of nature's original superfoods? Packed with antioxidants and growing wild among the heather at this time of year. In times gone by, they were the inspiration for local festivals celebrating Summer - so we thought we'd bring some of that spirit back with a community event that celebrates the landscape we all love.

Whether you're aiming for a personal best, enjoying a leisurely walk with family and friends, or simply coming along to support the community, we'd love to see you there.

Friday, 31 July 2026 at Loughanleagh Picnic Area (A82 YFY6) Registration opens at 6pm (closes 15 minutes before each event) Family-Friendly 3km Run/Walk – 7pm Bilberry Run (5km Trail Run) – 8pm Medals for top finishers Refreshments afterwards

All proceeds from the evening will support future development projects at Loughanleagh.

For more info email: pro.loughanleagh@gmail.com




44- Status Orange Fire Warning In Effect!

Due to ongoing dry conditions the risk of forest & wild land fires is significantly elevated



Please be Aware & act responsiblyeveryone's caution helps prevent wildfires & protects forests, wildlife & nearby communities



Be Prepared, Be Vigilant, Stamp Out Forest Fires





45- 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




46 Tullacmongan Family Fun Day





47.CavanPPN Bids Farewell to Administrator Finian McNamara

Today we bid a sad farewell to our Administrator Finian McNamara who, after over 5 and a half years, moves on to a new career. Finian was bid a fond farewell by his colleagues and friends in Cavan County Local Development last week.


Here we share some of the photos of Finian from his work over the 5 years. His work was ever meticulously, supportive, kind and patient. He brought so much information to community volunteers in the hundreds of groups he engaged with and provided training to hundreds of community leaders in those groups across the years.


His work was always amazing, jovial and lovely and the community sector is sad to lose a person as fantastic and brilliant as himself, but it has been very lucky to have had him and all he brought to the role.

Thank you Finian McNamara!


 
 
 

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