Cavan Community ENews 2.10.26
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
CONTENTS (Shaded are new items this week, but all are still relevant/in date)
FUNDING
1-FUNDING: Community Climate & Biodiversity Fund 2-FUNDING: Town & Village Renewal Scheme
3-FUNDING: Community & Visibility Cohesion Funding
4-FUNDING: LEAF Environmental Fund
5-FUNDING: Heritage Grant Scheme 2027 Opening 6-FUNDING: Media Literacy Counter Disinformation Fund 7-FUNDING: GAA Walking Track Update Grant TRAINING 8-TRAINING: Free TrustBuild Residency Training Course For Cavan Community Leaders 9-TRAINING: CavanPPN Training to Years End 10-TRAINING: SAOR Training 11-TRAINING: Equality and Human Rights Training 12-TRAINING: Free Autumn Winter Growing & Gardening Workshops in West Cavan 13-TRAINING: Community Leaders Workshop 14-TRAINING: Free Samba Drumming Workshops 15-TRAINING: Governance for a Resilient Future
SURVEYS/CONSULTS 16.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Shape the Future of Irish Inclusive Tourism 17.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Banking Survey For Smaller Communities 18.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: The New Irish Volunteer Index Seeks Cavan Voices 19. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Cavan Community Consultation Panel Sought EVENTS & OTHER NEWS 20- Eco Feile Festival Comes to Cavan 21-Europe's Rural Mobility Conference 22- Healthy Cavan Committees Sought for County 23- PhotoVoice Study Seeks People Living with Life Limiting Conditions 24- Cloth Nappy Scheme 25- Making Space for Communities 26- Cavan Older Person's AGM 27- Shrek in Tullyvin 28- Children's Chess Lessons in Cavan 29- Gulliver at 300 in Cavan 30- Cavan County Local Development Turns 30! 31- Cavan Plein Air Event 32- Ballyjamesduff Christmas Market News 33- CavanPPN, A European Perspective 34- Native Woodlands Schemes Event 35- The PPN National Conference in County Roscommon Feedback 36- Peace Plus Partnership Seeks Cavan Voices!
37- Swanlinbar Community AGM 38- Failte Chorus Singing Group 39- Ballinagh Christmas Markets! 40- Cavan GeoPark25 Events Coming Soon! 41- Last Chance to Input into the CavanPPN 2027 Workplan!
FUNDING 1 Community Climate & Biodiversity Fund
Meitheal Makers Opens Applications for Community Climate and Biodiversity Projects
Community groups with ideas for local climate or biodiversity action are being invited to apply for Meitheal Makers, a new pilot programme supporting communities to turn environmental ideas into practical projects. The programme will support participating communities to develop a clear and realistic project plan and raise €500 locally. Each group will then receive €500 in match-funding from Common Knowledge to help get its project underway.
Deadline: 5 Oct
2 Town & Village Renewal Scheme
The Town & Village Renewal Scheme is open. It will focus on town centre regeneration and enhancing economic and social vibrancy in line with Town Centre First Policy.
Types of projects sought:
-Drive town centre regeneration.
-Support town/village centre plaza development.
-Develop green spaces/recreational amenities in town/village centres.
-Include an emphasis on climate action elements.
-Enhance streetscapes.
-Support the provision of infrastructure (e.g. public realm works, service provisions, canopies etc.) to facilitate town or village centre markets (e.g. farmers markets, open-air markets, local trader markets, artisan markets or similar);
-Upgrade/refurbish community centres.
-Bring vacant and derelict buildings and sites back into use as multi-purpose community spaces.
Grant funding for Main Scheme projects will range from €50,000 to €500,000.
Full details available at: https://www.cavancoco.ie/services/community/town-village-renewal-and-revitalisation/town-and-village-renewal-scheme-2026/
3 Communication & Visibility of Cohesion Funds
Please see opportunity for “Communication and Visibility of Cohesion Funds”. There is a maximum of €2500 available to community groups and local organisations for any individual proposal that aligns with one or more of the policy objectives of Cohesion Policy 2021 to 2027:
A more competitive and smarter Europe
A greener, low carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy
A more connected Europe
A more social and inclusive Europe
Europe closer to citizens by fostering the sustainable and integrated development of all types of territories
Consideration will also be informed by the regional spread of applications.
Some activities that are eligible for support could be:
Engagement activities such as events / conferences
Capacity Building & infrastructure development, such as website enhancement / development
Provision of promotional merchandise
Could you circulate this to some of your organisations which might be interested in applying. They can check their eligibility on the link below and send their completed application to cohesionpolicydialogue@per.gov.ie .
The closing date for applications is 9 October next.
4 LEAF Local Env Action Fund, Opening Soon
Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) 2026
Communities Working Together for Climate
The Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) supports community groups to deliver projects that enhance the environment, promote biodiversity, and take meaningful climate action.
Funded in partnership with IPB Insurance and Cavan County Council, LEAF provides grants to Tidy Towns and voluntary groups working together with local partners to improve their communities.
Purpose & Funding
Established to mark IPB Insurance’s 100th anniversary.
Marks the first anniversary of the Tidy Towns Insurance Scheme partnership, which has removed insurance barriers for eligible groups.
Providing €50,000 per local authority, funded by IPB.
Supports Tidy Towns and similar voluntary community groups delivering environmental and climate-focused projects.
Objectives
The fund aims to:
• Support sustainable, climate-focused projects
• Strengthen community collaboration
• Enhance local biodiversity and green infrastructure
• Increase public awareness of environmental issues
What’s Available
Grants from €1,000 to €25,000
Funding for environmental and climate action projects
Support for collaborative, community-led initiatives
Who Can Apply
Applications are open to community-based voluntary groups involved in environmental improvement and sustainability initiatives, including:
Tidy Towns groups
Residents’ Associations
Other voluntary community groups undertaking similar environmental or community enhancement activities.
• Be registered with their local Public Participation Network (PPN)
• Demonstrate collaboration with at least one other community stakeholder (e.g. schools, sports clubs, youth groups, Men’s Sheds, etc.), or clearly explain why this is not possible
Application Timeline will open shortly.
Projects must focus on climate action, biodiversity and/or environmental enhancement. Examples include but not limited to:
Biodiversity conservation (e.g., creating pollinator-friendly spaces).
Tree planting and urban greening initiatives.
Waste reduction and recycling initiatives.
Water conservation projects.
Public education campaigns on sustainability.
Climate Awareness Campaigns.
Application Requirements
Applications are administered by Cavan County Council. To apply, groups must submit a completed application form to include:
• Project proposal (500–1500 words)
• Budget breakdown
• Proof of PPN registration
• Environmental impact statement
Applications should clearly outline:
• Project objectives and delivery plan
• Community involvement
• Expected environmental outcomes
Monitoring & Reporting
Grant recipients should provide the following:
1. Final Impact Report: Provide a brief summary of activities, outcomes, and expenditure report (including receipts).
2. Before and After Photos where relevant: To visually demonstrate the impact of the project.
3. Community Feedback: Consideration of request to include feedback from community group members involved or affected by the project.
5 Heritage Grant Scheme 2027 Open The Heritage Council is pleased to announce that Expressions of Interest for the Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2027 are now open.
The scheme supports community and voluntary groups and non-governmental organisations undertaking projects that protect, conserve, celebrate, understand and share Ireland's heritage.
New for 2027, the scheme introduces a two-stage application process designed to make it easier for groups to apply. At Stage 1, applicants submit a short Expression of Interest outlining their project idea. Shortlisted projects will then be invited to submit a full application.
The Expression of Interest stage allows applicants to submit an outline of their project idea without the need to prepare detailed budgets, quotations or supporting documentation at the outset. This helps groups explore project ideas and receive feedback before investing time in a full application.
Funding is available for projects under five themes:
Heritage at Risk
Biodiversity & Nature Restoration
Traditional Skills & Conservation
Digital Heritage, Access & Storytelling
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Funding available:
Minimum grant: €800
Maximum grant: €25,000
Key Dates
Expression of Interest Deadline: 16 October 2026 at 5.00pm
Stage 1 Results: Early November 2026
Full Application Deadline (shortlisted applicants only): 15 January 2027 at 5.00pm
An online information webinar will take place on 28 September 2026 at 12 noon.
For full details, guidance documents and application information, visit the Community Heritage Grant Scheme webpage.
For further information, contact grants@heritagecouncil.ie.
6 Media Literacy Countering Disinformation Fund
Media Literacy Countering Disinformation Micro Fund & Innovation Fund - 9th Oct
Coimisiún na Meán are seeking applications for grant funding for media literacy initiatives under our Media Literacy Countering Disinformation Micro Fund and Media Literacy Countering Disinformation Innovation Fund.
This is the second of two calls issued in 2026. This call for submissions consists of Strand A and Strand B.
Strand A: Media Literacy Countering Disinformation Micro Fund
Strand A will seek to provide micro-grants for community-based media literacy activities, with grants ranging from €500 up to a maximum of €3,000 per application.
Strand A welcomes applications from organisations and bodies embedded within communities (community and voluntary groups, including Broadband Coordinators in Local Authorities, Local Action Groups and community training programmes). Funding received should be used to develop, facilitate, enhance or deliver media literacy activities at a local level.
Strand B: Media Literacy Countering Disinformation Innovation Fund
Strand B will seek to provide grants to collaborative innovation projects up to a maximum of €25,000 per application.
Strand B is intended for applications from any consortium of two or more bodies. Funding received should be used to counter disinformation through media literacy activities at regional or national level.
Deadline: 12 noon 9th October 2026
7 GAA Walking Track Upgrade Grant
GAA Walking Track Upgrade Grant - 19th Oct
The Healthy Ireland and GAA Walking Track Upgrade Grant programme makes Government of Ireland funding available to support clubs to improve their existing walking tracks and expand opportunities for community participation in physical activity.
Since 2022, Healthy Ireland have invested funding of €1.6 million in supporting GAA Clubs walking track upgrade projects. Demand for the initiative has been exceptionally strong, with over 300 clubs across phases one and two seeking funding of almost €9 million in support, highlighting the significant need for safe, accessible, community walking facilities in local communities.
Building on the success to date, Healthy Ireland have provided an additional €500,000 to support more GAA clubs to provide local walking facilities that offers members and the wider community the opportunity to engage in everyday physical activity in a safer environment to walking on busy or dangerous roads.
Deadline: 19th October 2026
TRAINING
8 FREE TrustBuilding Residential & Course For Cavan's Community Leaders
A project supported by PEACEPLUS; a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)
BUILDING TRUST in COMMUNITIES
A Courage & Renewal® programme to support a sense of belonging and engagement in community.
BUILDING TRUST in COMMUNITIES is funded by Cavan Co. Council PEACEPLUS programme 2024 - 2027, and available at no cost to participants.
Date: Residential Gathering/Retreat from November 13th to 15th 2026
Venue: An Tobar Retreat Centre, Navan, Co Meath. C15 XD6H
THEMES A range of themes will be explored that underpin personal and community connections and resilience. These include:
· Individual and community courage, hope, and resilience.
· Exploring the gap between the way things are and the way we would like them to be.
· Appreciating the value of the ‘stranger’ or the ‘other.’
· Building trust in communities.
This programme offers participants the opportunity to explore their individual and collective wisdom and strength. It will also help us to gain insights into new ways of being in relationship with others and in community. The Programme is a resource that will support participants’ sense of belonging and engagement in community as well as their leadership and inclusion capacity.
Registration To register for a place on this programme, please email Noreen Sudbury at nsudbury@cavancoco.ie
For more information on the content of the residential please contact
Rita McNulty at ritamcnulty0@gmail.com Tel. 087 6295453 or
Mary Manning at suaimhneasmary@gmail.com Tel. 087 2421330
Meet your Facilitators:
Rita McNulty. Rita’s career spanned education, youth work, the Peace 1 Programme, the public and civil service. Her varied roles at grassroots and senior management levels all had a community focus. Since retiring in 2013 she completed a four-year Programme The Sacred art of Living and Dying as well as three years training to be a Courage and Renewal facilitator. She currently offers Circle of TrustⓇ programmes and retreats. Her commitments include human rights and diversity. She loves the sea, the hills and a moving meditation practice called the 5 Rhythms.
Mary Manning. Mary has had a rich and varied career as a teacher in Special Education, a businesswoman, a complementary medicine practitioner, and more recently as a facilitator with the Center for Courage & Renewal. She has completed a four-year programme in both the Sacred Art of Living and Dying and the Anamcara Apprenticeship. Facilitator preparation took place over a three-year course. Mary is passionate about how we care for our earth, and all things ecological.
The Center for Courage & Renewal is a not-for-profit organisation based in the U.S. It exists to nurture deep integrity and trust between people, building the foundation for a more loving, equitable, and healthy world. Its programmes are delivered by trained facilitators in different countries around the world. In Ireland there are currently four trained Courage & Renewal facilitators, two of whom are facilitating this programme. Further information on the Centre and its work can be accessed on the website https://couragerenewal.org/
9 Free Community 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!
Email info@cavanppn.ie to secure your place now. Places are limited
10 SAOR Training
SAOR Screening and Brief Intervention Problem Alcohol and Substance Use
Training day – October 29th(10am – 3:30, on Zoom)
SAOR Screening and Brief Intervention for Problem Alcohol and Substance Use (2017) 1
is a step-by-step guide for practice developed in response to problem alcohol and
other drug use. The model can be used in a wide variety of settings, including
community, statutory, voluntary, justice and education services. By following this
model, many professionals and volunteers have been given the confidence and
competence to screen for problem alcohol and drug use and either engage in a brief
intervention or refer to specialist services if necessary.
SAOR training is delivered in a 90-minute eLearning module followed by a 1-day
skills-based workshop delivered on Zoom. SAOR training is FREE.
YOU MUST REGISTER TO ATTEND.
To express your interest in the one-day, skills-based training, delivered online, please
email your name, role, organisation, email address & possible dates to the address
below. You will receive information on how to access the SAOR II eLearning element.
Upon completion of the eLearning, please email your certificate to
Once we receive your certificate, you will be registered for the 1-day practical skills
training day.
On completion of this workshop, participants should be able to:
• Apply the theory from the SAOR online module to their practice
• Identify opportunities to conduct a brief intervention
• Demonstrate appropriate brief intervention skills using the SAOR model
• Identify appropriate alcohol and other drugs care pathways
For more details please email stephaniekane@nedrugtaskforce.ie
11 Equality & Human Rights Training
I want to introduce Equal by Design, a practical two-part Equality and Human Rights training programme that may be of interest to the P.P.N, community groups, voluntary organisations, public bodies, and others engaged in social inclusion and community development work.
The programme has been developed and is delivered by Robert Carey, an equality and social inclusion practitioner with extensive experience in community development and inclusion initiatives, including leadership roles within the community sector such as SICAP management.
The workshops provide a foundation in equality and human rights principles, Irish equality legislation, the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty, and practical approaches to applying these concepts in day-to-day organisational practice. Participants gain useful tools to support inclusive service delivery, policy development, and community engagement.
The programme is suitable for NGOs, community organisations, public sector staff, and anyone seeking to strengthen their understanding and application of equality and human rights principles.
Please find attached an information flyer. I would be grateful if you could circulate these through your networks and share them with any organisations that may benefit.
If you would like further information or would like to discuss delivering the training in your area, please feel free to contact me.
Kind regards,
Robert Carey Carey Inclusion [0872887824] [careyinclusion@gmail.com ]
12 Autumn/Winter Garden/Growing Workshops
Keep Growing Through Autumn & Winter!
Want to grow more of your own food, save money and make the most of your garden or growing space? Join us for a practical workshop series exploring autumn and winter gardening, sustainable growing and preserving the harvest.
Across the sessions, you’ll learn simple, affordable techniques for growing fresh food through the colder months, preparing and maintaining your growing spaces, making the most of small areas, and preserving your harvest to reduce food waste.
What we’ll cover includes:
Autumn & winter sowing and planting
Garlic and overwintering crops
Growing in containers and small spaces
Preparing and replenishing garden beds
Extending the growing season
Freezing, pickling, fermentation and preserving
Growing sustainably and on a budget
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or have never grown your own food before, this series is designed to be practical, accessible and hands-on.
Places are limited; early registration is advised. Contact Annette Leonard @ Fermanagh Trust Tel: (+44) 7944284496 Email: annette@fermanaghtrust.org
13 Community Leaders Workshop
This workshop supports leaders to reset how they lead, building steady confidence, sustainable energy, and clear direction. It uses evidence-based practices that help regulate the nervous system, prevent burnout, and strengthen communication.
Led by Gillian O’Gorman, a former CEO with 17 years’ experience in senior leadership, the workshop draws on real-world experience of leading in complex, under-resourced settings. Gillian will explore the pressures of governance and funding, as well as the personal and emotional demands of leadership.
Participants will leave with practical resources, including reflection tools, simple regulation techniques to reduce overwhelm, and a carefully selected resource guide to support ongoing resilience. There will also be an exclusive option to take part in follow-up coaching or group leadership development sessions.
Workshop highlights
Self-mastery in leadership – practical tools to support emotional regulation and focus
Boundaries that build resilience – boundary-mapping and clear communication exercises
Leadership clarity and alignment – values-based frameworks for resilient leadership
Integration and reflection – personal action planning and guided reflection tools.
Who should attend
The Aligned Leader is designed for leaders and managers in the community and voluntary sector who are under increasing pressure to balance people, purpose, and performance.
How to register: If you are a member of a PPN group you can register for free with us by emailing cavanppnsw@gmail.com with the title 'training request'. For our members we will cover the cost of training and travel.
14 FREE Samba Drumming Workshops
15 Governance for Resilient Future Training
The CORE Project has some free training coming up, aimed at environmental groups and NGOs. Governance for a Resilient Environment, on Wednesday 4th November in Belfast, will equip groups to build the structures and systems that help organisations grow sustainably, whether they are volunteer-led, staffed, or a mix of both.
More information is below. Please forward to any environmental groups or NGOs who may be interested.
Wednesday November 4th, 10-3.30, Belfast (venue TBC)
Governance for a Resilient Environment
This free training day is the first in a series, aimed at environmental NGOs across the island of Ireland.
We will look practically at:
Building and recruiting an effective board
Developing the policies that keep an organisation accountable
Building the structures and systems that help organisations grow sustainably, whether they are volunteer-led, staffed, or a mix of both
Takeaways will include:
A board skills audit and recruitment plan that you can use straight away
Knowledge sharing with environmental groups, North and South
Discuss challenges and solutions with a network of peers
Organic opportunities to forge relationships with other organisations
This training is being offered by the CORE Project, which is funded by PEACEPLUS.
Many thanks,
Sarah
Sarah Bradley-Adam
Network Communications and Monitoring Officer, CORE project
07383 801288
CORE Project: Cross-border Opportunities for a Resilient Environment
PEACEPLUS funded
SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS
16 Shape the Future of Irish Inclusive Tourism
Help shape the future of accessible and inclusive tourism in Ireland.
Fáilte Ireland's Your Voice, Your Journey Visitor Consultation aims to understand visitors' experiences and expectations of accessible and inclusive tourism when travelling in Ireland.
People across Ireland are invited to share their experiences of accessible and inclusive tourism and help inform the future development of tourism across the country.
The consultation will gather insights across areas including trip planning, transport, accommodation, attractions and visitor experiences. It will help identify barriers, opportunities and priorities for the future development of tourism, providing an important evidence base to support future planning.
The Your Voice, Your Journey Visitor Consultation has been co-designed with national advocacy organisations representing disability, sensory impairment, age friendly and access and inclusion interests.
The survey is open from 4th of September and will remain open for eight weeks until 29th of October.
Further information and guidance on how to participate is available on the Your Voice, Your Journey webpage Fáilte Ireland Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Survey
Please help spread the word by sharing the survey with colleagues, members, friends and family and encouraging as many people as possible to take part. Attached is a suggested social media post and you can find more social media assets for download. You can also repost Fáilte Ireland's LinkedIn survey launch post. Please consider posting on your website, newsletter or social media channels to help raise awareness of the consultation.
Thank you for your participation and support in sharing the survey.
Erin Bottomley
Officer, Inclusive Tourism
Beech Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry
17 Banking Survey for Smaller Community Groups
Survey on Barriers to Accessing Bank Accounts for Small Community Groups
We are interested in learning more about any barriers that small community groups faced when trying to open bank accounts. They usually need them in order to apply for and receive small grants and funds. The survey is short and not too onerous. We would appreciate if you could share with your relevant networks please.
The survey is here - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FVCFB9S
18 The Irish Volunteering Index
Dear Cavan PPN Members,
My name is Helena, and I'm reaching out from Bpact (an independent citizen panel giving people a voice on social issues) about the Irish Volunteering Index, run in partnership with Volunteer Ireland.
What it's about
We're asking volunteers and community members across Ireland what motivates them, what frustrates them, and what support they need. The result is a clear national and local picture of volunteering and community engagement that Cavan PPN can put to direct use.
Why it's worth your time
We'll share Cavan's own results back with you, so you can benchmark them against the national picture. The more responses from your area, the stronger that local picture becomes, and once you reach 200+, we'll also put together a free, visual report built specifically for Cavan.
We'll help you get there
You'll have a full communication toolkit: ready-made posts, banners, and text, so sharing it with your network is quick and straightforward.
How to join
Free, easy and secure: register here. It takes two minutes. We go live Monday, but you're welcome to join anytime after that.
19 Cavan Community Consultation Panel Sought
CavanPPN is seeking to develop a COMMUNITY CONSULTATION PANEL that can help input into the various consultations which are advertised both locally and nationally. The Panel will consist of voices from a wide array of our member groups and help to ensure that each consultation submission includes as wide a demographic voice as possible from the PPN.
Key members will be asked to meet 4-6 times per year to input into a variety of strategically important consultations to the community sector for a period of no more than 2 hours arranged to suit their times at a central location in the county (refreshments served). Some consultations between meetings may require them to email their feed-back but we aim to make this as inclusive as possible without being too onerous to you.
If you are interested in being a voice for your community in influencing decisions through consultation then email us at cavanppn@gmail.com with the title CONSULT and we will be in touch. Numbers are limited and capped at 20 to ensure the panel can hear ALL voices at the table. No more than one voice per demographic can be included so more voices can add to the consultations.
Examples of demographics include: Disabilities, New Communities, Youth, Women's Interests, Older Persons, the 3 Areas of Cavan (Municipal Districts), LGBT+, Sports, Arts and so on.
Deadline for expressing interest is Friday October 30th at midday.
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
20 Eco Féile Festival Comes To Cavan
Cavan’s flagship sustainability and innovation festival, Cavan Eco Féile, will take place from 23rd – 25th October with free live concerts from acts like The Tumbling Paddies, The Highstool Prophets, Groev, and Spirit of Smokie, a climate expo featuring 13 floors of exhibits, local food and drink offerings, sustainability talks and workshops with leading business figures, and much more.
See: https://ecofeile.ie for further details!
21 Europe's Rural Mobility Future Conference
Europe’s Rural Mobility Future: Setting Standards
The ERMN team is pleased to announce the upcoming conference Europe’s Rural Mobility Future:Setting Standards, taking place in Kilkenny, Ireland, on 27–29th October 2026. e programme will begin on Tuesday, 27th October 2026, with a dedicated half-day ERMN side event, taking place from 14:00 to 17:30. The event will feature a short welcoming plenary followed by interactive parallel workshops, giving participants the opportunity to explore practical experiences and exchange on different themes related to rural mobility.
The main event is held on Wednesday, 28th October 2026, the programme will continue with the European Conference “Europe’s Rural Mobility Future: Setting Standards”, promoted by MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú (Renew Europe) in association with Kilkenny LEADER Partnership (KLP) and the European Rural Mobility Network (ERMN).
This year’s core theme is “Setting Service Standards for Rural Mobility to achieve greater Equity and Cohesion and to contribute to Europe’s Climate goals”.
The conference will focus on policy and standards for rural mobility, which significantly impact on achievement of European goals on environment, society and rural development, while also impacting at local level in many thousands of rural communities throughout Europe. It will explore the growing concept of “service standards” for mobility in rural areas.
This pan-European Conference brings together ministries, local governments, mobility agencies, rural development stakeholders and research institutes, among others. Through highly interactive sessions, this one-day event will examine current challenges, solutions and ways forward. Throughout the Conference, there will be focus on diversity of people and places – their characteristics and their needs, which change over their lifecycles – with special attention to women and young people. The Conference will produce a synthesis of key messages for policy-makers to consider.
Event Details:
Date: 27-29th October 2026Location: Ormonde Hotel, Kilkenny, Ireland
Participation: Free of charge
If you like to take part at the in person event Save the Date in your calendar and please express your interest with just a click. All selected participants will receive a confirmation email with the registration form, so please do not make any travel and accommodation arrangements until your participation has been confirmed.
22 Healthy Community Committees Sought For Cavan
23 Photovoice Study of Those Living with Life Limiting Conditions
24 Cloth Nappy Incentive Scheme
Through the Cloth Nappy Incentive Scheme we aim to reduce use of single use disposable nappies by providing families with a starter bundle of reusable nappies and information on their use. The scheme is funded by local authorities and promoted through maternity hospitals. We recently sent out a survey to families participating in the scheme and found it is getting great results!
We found that 56% of families who received the bundle are currently using the nappies and on average, participants actively using the scheme are replacing around 3 disposable nappies a day, halving their reliance on disposables.
The scheme also aimed to encourage a long term change in behaviour, prompting an ongoing shift from use of single use disposable nappies to reusable nappies. The scheme has succeeded in this aim with 100% of participants currently using the nappies stating that they are likely to continue using cloth nappies.
Additionally by providing reusable nappies to families the use of reusables in place of disposables becomes known within a pilot area, with users recommending them to friends and family, and ultimately prompting the beginning of normalisation. In the Munster scheme 97% of participants that are currently using the nappies stated that they would recommend reusable nappies to other parents.
25 National Pubic Libraries Open Day
Hello all,
I am reaching out to invite you and your colleagues to Saolta's annual conference on November 4th. Saolta is a Global Citizenship Education strategic partnership programme for the Adult and Community Education (ACE) sector in Ireland between Irish Aid and a consortium of organisations. We explore a variety of global issues with stakeholders in the ACE sector and encourage informed action across Irish society. Issues such as poverty, inequality and climate change
This November we are bringing together people and experts across the sector to talk about the future of community education and what community development looks like in a changing political and ecological landscape. With tickets closing in a little less than a month, don't miss out!
I've included our invitation below. We do have a deal where you can buy three tickets for the price of two which we are encouraging organisations to take advantage of. I hope you can join us on the day.
Many thanks,
26 Cavan Older Person's Council AGM
27 Shrek in Tullyvin
28 Children's Chess Lessons in Cavan
priority booking.
29 Gulliver At 300 Event
30 Cavan County Local Development Turns 30!
Celebrating 30 Years of CCLD
As part of Local Development Week, CCLD marked 30 years of local development, inclusion and community partnership.
Their celebration showcased work spanning social inclusion, rural development, employment, LEADER, community health and wellbeing across County Cavan.
31 Cavan Plein Air Event.
We are pleased to announce that we have launched our Eventbrite for Cavan Plein Air and are now taking bookings. We look forward to another creative event brought to you by Bailieborough Creative Hub supported by Cavan Arts.
Please feel free to forward this email to anyone that you think may be interested.
32 Ballyjamesduff Christmas Market News
33 CavanPPN Reminds Europe of Rural Irish Feelings During Presidency
As Ireland celebrates its Presidency of the EU, it's worth noting that networks like CavanPPN have been listening to grass roots members in rural Ireland on their feelings of the European project and how it has been, is and where it's going. Here are just some snippets from our Department of Finance funded report from last year.
34 Native Woodland Schemes Event
Woodlands of Ireland is a not-for-profit charity dedicated to the conservation and expansion of native and semi-natural woodlands in Ireland since 1998. We are a member of the Irish Environmental Network, and our office is located in County Leitrim. We have an event coming up in October at the stunning Oak Barn in Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway, Leitrim Village, Co. Leitrim, celebrating 25 years of the Native Woodland Schemes. The event might interest environmental community groups and the wider community interested in native woodlands and the nature restoration regulation relating to woodlands within your networks. We would appreciate it if possible and of relevance, of its inclusion in upcoming PPN newsletters and/or a share on social media.
Registration is now open. Please see information for potential inclusion below and posters attached in PNG and PDF formats as well as the draft schedule. Thank you in advance
START
𝐖𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝟐𝟓 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬.
You are invited to a gathering for talks, walks, discussions and networking, at Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway, Leitrim Village, Co. Leitrim on Thursday 8th & Friday 9th October 2026.
Registration:
The Native Woodland Scheme (NWS) began as a Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine forestry support scheme designed to protect, restore and create native woodlands using Ireland’s native tree species. The scheme has provided financial support to landowners and other eligible applicants for establishing or managing existing native woodland, in various forms since its introduction in November 2001. It represented an important change in Irish forestry policy by providing specific support for native semi-natural woodland rather than focusing primarily on commercial plantation forestry. Woodlands of Ireland's Technical Advisory Group drew up the initial guidelines for a native woodland scheme, working with foresters, ecologists, academics, environmental NGOs and other stakeholders. At the request of its Steering Committee, the proposal was submitted to the Forest Service in 1999 and received favourably. The existence of the Native Woodland Schemes since 2001 has to some degree acted as a catalyst in encouraging a greater landscape restoration and expansion of semi-natural woodland habitats in addition to measures funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The late Freda Rountree, as Chair of the Heritage Council, convened the initial meeting of stakeholders in July 1997,which opened the path that led to the development of the native woodland scheme, which we now celebrate 25 years after their launch.
The existence of the Native Woodland Schemes since 2001 has to some degree acted as a catalyst in encouraging a greater landscape restoration and expansion of semi-natural woodland habitats in addition to measures funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
The gathering for talks, walks, discussions and networking will commence on Thursday 8th October 2026 at the Oak Barn, Drumhierney Woodland Hideaway in Co. Leitrim, focussing on:
(a) A retrospective of how and why the Native Woodland Schemes came into being
(b) An insight into the experience of foresters and ecologists employing the scheme measures.
(c) Future prospects for semi-natural woodland conservation and management
- followed by a field trip on Friday 9th October, visiting a site where Native Woodland Scheme measures have been applied.
This event is part-funded by the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine under the Forestry Promotions Projects Open Call 2026. Other Woodlands of Ireland funders include the National Parks and Wildlife Service, The Heritage Council and the Irish Environmental Network.
35 PPN National Conference CavanPPN delegates were proud to join our colleagues from around the country in Roscommon to celebrate the National PPN conference. Attended by Minister Jerry Buttimer and European Social and Economic Committee President Seamus Boland, the event brought together the voices of over 23,000 communities nationwide.
In a time when the fabric of democracy is becoming ever more fragile it is amazing to see proactive and collaborative voices standing up for community interests, values and visions for a resilient and beautiful future.
Bairbre Nic Aongusa (Asst Secretary DRCDG) spoke of the ongoing supports PPNs need on the ground at a Local Authority level and the continued desire both at community and national level for their growth for the future of active participation. Seamus Boland (President of the European Economic & Social Committee) said that 'Into the second decade of PPNs we have to support structures for communities to engage. Genuine partnership and not tokenism is what is now needed between communities and government at all levels to avoid mistakes in social and civic engagement." He continued to hammer home the point that at a local level 'communities need to be asked the questions at the developing stage of policy' and that 'PPNs formalise and recognize the real value of community voice'.
It was certainly a wake up call to those in power that in a time when democracy is being undermined and the right rises, that mere tokenistic support and words are not enough and genuine engagement of PPNs reaps rewards for all. With 12 years now behind the PPNs, the gauntlet lies at the feet of local government to actually "support and develop meaningful active community participation through the PPNs" as Seamus Boland put it.
Minister of State Gerry Buttimer echoes these statements with his own, that "an inclusive and just society...that's what PPNs are working toward. When supported they can empower communities through connection, collaboration and cohesion"
Many thanks to Roscommon PPN for hosting this incredible event and a special thanks is owed to Paul and Jody, the staff behind organising this event and all the other community enriching PPN activities of Roscommon.
36 A Community Voice Needed for Peace Plus
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. We are seeking nominations from community representatives, including volunteers, from PPN Member Organisations within our council area and who could represent PEACEPLUS Target groups.
Full details are contained in the attached documents here:
37 Swanlinbar AGM
SWANLINBAR DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION – ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Swanlinbar Development Association will hold its Annual General Meeting on:
Wednesday, 7th October 2026
8.30pm
Trivia House, Swanlinbar
Everyone is welcome to attend!
Come along, hear about the work of the Association, share your ideas and have your say on the future development of our community.
We look forward to seeing you there!
38 Failte Chorus
Singing is good for the soul!
All welcome! 0852703080
39 Ballinagh Christmas Market
40 GeoPark 25 Events Coming
SAVE THE DATE TO CELEBRATE GEOPARK25
For 25 years, Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark has been uncovering the remarkable stories hidden within our landscape.
From the rocks beneath our feet, which tell tales of ancient oceans, dramatic geological events and millions of years of natural change, to the stories of our communities, traditions, heritage and people, there are countless stories waiting to be explored.
24 October – 14 November
Join us for a special programme of walks, talks, family events, conservation activities, heritage experiences and community celebrations as we celebrate what makes our Geopark so unique.
EXPLORE the landscapes that surround us.
DISCOVER the stories held within them.
CONNECT with the people, heritage and communities that bring them to life.
Together, we'll celebrate our past, discover our present and inspire future generations to cherish this extraordinary landscape.
Save the date — full programme coming soon!
41 CavanPPN Seeks Your Input For 2027 Workplan
Cavan Public participation Network is the REPRESENTATIVE, NETWORKING, CONSULTATIVE & CAPACITY BUILDING agency for community groups in County Cavan. As such, it has a program budget that supports these main pillars for the over 570 member groups and their core interests and issues.
Each year CavanPPN's staff seek ideas from a wide array of groups, partners and members of the public on what YOU want the PPN to work upon in the following year. The method is thus:
Sept 15-30th OPEN CALL FOR IDEAS Oct 5-9th SCORING OF PROPOSALS BY STAFF AGAISNT RELEVANCE TO PPN MISSION Oct 15th SCORED PROPOSALS SUBMITTED TO ELECTED SECRETARIAT OF GROUPS OCT 19-23rd WORKPLAN & BUDGET DRAFTED NOVEMBER: WORKPLAN & BUDGET SENT TO MEMBER GROUPS FOR PLENARY DECISION NOV 28th
Therefore, we are seeking our members and partners to submit their ideas for their PPNs 2027 Workplan. We will of course continue the main work of hosting 2 networking Plenaries per year and maintaining regular communications for members weekly as well as fulfilling our representative responsibilities to seek and support community voices on boards and committees. Other than these, let's see what ideas you have for us.
Email your ideas to cavanppn@gmail.com with the heading Workplan27 before midday on September 30th.
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