Cavan Community ENews 20.6.25
- Daniel Downey
- 1 day ago
- 24 min read
Updated: 13 minutes ago
Welcome to your weekly ENews. Our news is compiled weekly from our over 500 member groups, partner agencies and funders. The deadline for submitting to cavanppn@gmail.com is noon Wednesdays and we can only take community focused news. 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
FUNDING
1. FUNDING: Heritage Week Small Grants
2. FUNDING: Research Ireland Infrastructure Program
3. FUNDING: Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme
4. FUNDING: AIB Community Fund 5. FUNDING: Shared Island Civic Society Fund
6. FUNDING: The LIFE Environmental Fund 7. FUNDING: Heritage Keepers Program For Schools
8. FUNDING: SE Systems Community Fund
9. FUNDING: Community Colours Campaign
10. FUNDING: Community Recognition Fund News
TRAINING
11. TRAINING: FREE TRAINING FOR CAVANPPN MEMBERS
12. TRAINING: Green Shoots Training
13. TRAINING: Byte & Brew Tech Training
14. TRAINING: Free Chair Yoga Class
15. TRAINING: Upskill Your Birdskills with Birdwatch Ireland's New App
16. TRAINING: Rainbow Refugee Awareness Workshop
SURVEYS/CONSULTS 17. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Romanian Community of Ireland Survey 18. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Call To Identify Bathing Waters In Cavan 19. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Dance Connects Survey 20. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Show Your Support In This LEADER Petition/Survey 21. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: National Recycling Bin Survey
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
22. Skydive for Holy Family School
23. Waste into Opportunity Event in Ballyconnell
24. Retrofit June Newsleter
25. Gathering of the Clans, A Celebration of Cavan Town's Past
26. Three Glas Job Opportunities in Cavan/Monaghan
27- Winners of the Get Smart SunSmart Art Competition
28- Killeshandra Video Theatre is Available NOW for you!
29- CavanPPN Summer Community Plenary A Great Success
30- Host a Cuppa For Climate
31- Do You Provide Supports For Adults with Disabilities in Cavan?
32- Houses, Not Hazards Photo Exhibit
33- Good Governance 2025 Awards
34- Yarnspin Storytelling with Dr. Senem Donatan Mohan This Week
FUNDING
Heritage Week Small Grants
This year Heritage Week’s theme ‘Exploring Our Foundations’ invites us to delve into the building blocks of our heritage; not just the structures, but the landscapes and cultural activities that have shaped us and takes place from 16th – 24th August 2025.
A small grant scheme will be in place to assist towards the cost of your Heritage Week events.
Applications to be returned by Friday 27th June, 2025
Before submitting application, please register your event on National Heritage Week event details:- Organise an Event or Project | National Heritage Week 16th – 24th August 2025
2. The Research Ireland Infrastructure Programme The Research Ireland Infrastructure Programme supports the research community in building and sustaining essential resources to conduct high-quality, innovative research across all disciplines. This programme recognises that robust research infrastructure is fundamental to advancing knowledge that contributes to Ireland’s cultural, social, environmental and economic development.
Research Ireland encourages the efficient use, renewal and development of existing infrastructure while also advocating for continued investment in state-of-the-art facilities and resources across diverse research areas of importance. The Infrastructure Programme aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and ensure all researchers have access to the resources necessary for excellence in their respective fields.
Applications to the 2025 Programme Call will support significant infrastructure investments across all disciplines within Research Ireland’s remit. The programme welcomes proposals for substantial resources that enhance research capabilities in diverse fields, recognising the different infrastructure requirements of various research traditions.
3. Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme
Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme
The Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme offers financial supports – provided by Sport Ireland – to local clubs, groups and organisations, nationwide who promote increased participation in recreational sport or physical activity for older people.
Some of the Sport Initiatives supported are:
Age & Opportunity Active National Grant Scheme
Offers financial supports to local clubs, groups and organisations, nationwide.
FitLine
A telephone mentoring service which encourages callers to start getting more active- we’re only a phone call away!
Physical Activity Leaders
An education and peer leadership initiative which trains older people how to lead sport and activity sessions in their local groups and communities.
CarePALS
Trains those working in care settings to lead suitable physical activities.
People with intellectual disability Physical Activity Leaders
Enabling people with intellectual disability (ID) to become physical activity leaders.
Walking Football initiative
An Age & Opportunity initiative for older men that is great craic and good for general health and wellbeing.
European Week of Sport
Promoting sport and physical activity across Europe.
Go For Life Games
Teams from all over Ireland coming together to take part in a national day of sport in June every year.
4. AIB Community Fund
AIB Community €1 Million Fund
The AIB Community €1 Million Fund enables customers, the public and our employees to support the local charities that matter most to them, within their region. The Fund supports charities across six regions in Ireland, Northern Ireland & Great Britain.
AIB will once again allocate €700,000 to charities chosen by its customers and the community, while €300,000 will be donated to charities chosen by employees.
The 2025 AIB Community €1 Million Fund will open for nominations from 14 May for six weeks, closing on 25 June. Community Fund
5. Shared Island Civic Society Fund Open
Shared Island Civic Society Fund
The Shared Island Civic Society Fund is an initiative to promote practical North-South cooperation and engagement through increased cross-border civic society connections.
Deadline: 27 June Shared Island Civic Society Fund
6. The Life Environmental Fund
LIFE is the EU’s funding programme dedicated to the environment and climate action.
Aims & Objectives
The LIFE programme’s main goals are to:
help communities transition towards a more sustainable, circular, energy-efficient, renewable energy-based, climate-neutral and -resilient economy
protect, restore and enhance the environment
halt and reverse biodiversity loss
stop the degradation of ecosystems by managing and enhancing the Natura 2000 network for rare and threatened species.
What does it support?
LIFE funds projects that address issues within its four sub-programmes:
Nature and biodiversity
Circular economy and quality of life
Climate change mitigation and adaptation
Clean energy transition.
Who can apply?
Entities with an environmental and/or climate mission (including nature/biodiversity and clean energy transition) such as:
nonprofit organisations
public authorites
citizens groups
academia and higher education institutions
research centres
large and small companies
Why the EU funds environment and climate action
Read more about EU policy on the EU Green Deal.
Budget
€5.4 billion over seven years.
Project Examples
Improving Corncrake Conservation Status In Ireland. The project is taking place in the West and North-West of Ireland focussing on nine SPAs (eight project sites spanning over 4 300 hectares) and will target the Annex I species Corncrake (Crex Crex).
Check out the public LIFE projects dashboard providing data on all LIFE projects since 2014.
National Contact Point in Ireland
Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, Research and Advisory Unit.
Email: LIFE@decc.gov.ie
Open Calls
Find open calls for LIFE.
Want to find out more?
More about the Life programme in Ireland
7. Heritage Keepers Program For Schools
Heritage Keepers is a free national programme open to senior classes (5th and 6th) in primary schools and to community groups that enables you to discover your local built, cultural and natural heritage. Over five 2-hour workshops you will explore the heritage in your local place and then plan a funded action to enhance that place.
Have fun, learn something new, make a difference – become a Heritage Keeper!
Deadline: Tuesday 30th September 2025
More info: https://heritagekeepers.ie/
8- SE Systems Community Fund
We are pleased to share that the SE Systems Community Fund is now open to all.
This initiative offers €500,000 in funding to support not-for-profit organisations across Ireland in delivering sustainable energy improvements to their community buildings.
The fund is designed to help reduce operational costs, cut energy bills, lower carbon emissions, and improve energy resilience for local services that are often under financial pressure.
We’re reaching out to ask for your support in sharing this opportunity with organisations in your network who may benefit from it.
Applications open on 27th of May until 18th July 2025, and eligible upgrades include insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, lighting improvements and more.
9- Community Colours Campaign To mark 75 years of colour, creativity, and community, Fleetwood are thrilled to relaunch it's Community Colours campaign – with an even bigger splash!
From now until the end of June, 75 community groups and clubs will each receive up to €1,000 worth of Fleetwood paint – whether it’s to brighten a town hall, refresh a sports clubhouse, spruce up a Scout den, or add new life to a Women’s or Men’s Shed.
Deadline: 31 June
How to Enter
Buy any Fleetwood product no minimum spend required. Paint, brushes, accessories – it all counts!
Scan the QR code on in-store posters, via links on Fleetwood's social media or click here
Upload your proof of purchase receipt and nominate your chosen club, group or community.
10- Community Recognition Fund News
The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, along with his colleague the Minister of State with special responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer, has today (Thursday 5th June 2025) announced over €17 million to deliver 212 community projects across the country through the Community Recognition Fund.
A copy of the press release can be viewed here. Approved projects list attached.
We will be issuing Letters of Offer, Funding Agreements, and associated material in the coming days.
As of Tuesday 3rd June, the Department name has been updated to “The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht”. As such our email addresses have been updated with “g” after “drcd". For example crf@drcdg.gov.ie Please update any email address you may use for DRCD to DRCDG.
I would once again like to thank all Local Authority officials for their ongoing support with the administration of the Community Recognition Fund.
TRAINING
11- FREE TRAINING FOR CAVANPPN MEMBERS
Cavan PPN is delighted to present a number of training courses to our member groups. These are provided by The Carmichael Centre and are available FREE OF CHARGE for member groups.
(Please note: you must be part of a member group of Cavan PPN to avail of these training courses).
All the courses are online and self-paced (with a period of access to each course).
We have a limited number of places on the following courses.
The Role of the Chairperson
How to Take Meeting Minutes
The Role of the Treasurer
Financial Management for Non-Profits
Risk Management
For more information, and to register, please click here.
We also have a funding webinar coming up on July 1st. This online webinar is provided by The Wheel and is available FREE OF CHARGE for member groups.
Writing your EU Funding Application
"Are you planning to apply for EU funding but need some help getting started? Whether it’s your first time applying or you’re looking to sharpen your skills, this session will help you better understand what makes a strong, successful application."
For more information, and to register, please click here.
12-Green Shoots Training
Want to help shape the future of green education and make a real impact in your community?
GREEN SHOOTS is an exciting new initiative aimed at empowering trainers, educators, and community leaders with the skills and tools needed to champion green practices and sustainability in their teaching and work. We are having an online Zoom session on Thursday 26th June, from 10.45am to 11.45am, to gather some feedback on our draft resources and course content, and we would love to invite you, as a local citizen or community group interested in green practices and sustainability!
Join us and be part of the GREEN SHOOTS movement and help us grow a greener tomorrow!
Spots are limited so please register here ASAP: https://forms.gle/ReMQeUwfSzFXzkJD7
Contact me at: sorcha@ruralhub.ie
Learn more: https://greenshootsprojects.com/
13- Byte and Brew Training In conjunction with local libraries, county councils and local development companies, CMETB are delighted to launch Byte and Brew.
This is a new course which supports people to learn smartphone and digital skills in a friendly setting. People will need to register, and will need to provide their own smartphone.
You can use this text and the attached graphic to promote the course:
Do you want to learn to use your smartphone and make new friends?
Byte and Brew is a new project which helps people learn to use technology in a friendly setting. Classes will run for 4 weeks, with each class lasting 3 hours. Refreshments are provided. You are encouraged to help one another as well as learning from the tutor.
Classes will take place in the libraries, and are supported by CCLD, MIDL and the county councils.
You can book through the libraries, or by contacting Ceinwen on 087 0687841 or ceinwenfergus@cmetb.ie
Please note: you will need to bring your own smartphone.
Cavan Library | Tuesday 24 June - 15 July | 5-8pm |
Bailieborough | TBC | |
Virginia Library | Friday 27 June - 18 July | 10am-1pm |
Carrick Library | Thursday 26 June - 17 July | 10am-1pm |
Castleblayney Library | Friday 27 June - 18 July | 10am-1pm |
Monaghan Library | Monday 30 June - 21 July | 10am-1pm |
Clones Library | Monday 30 June - 21 July | 2-5pm |
This project is supported by Adult Literacy for Life funding.
Kind regards
Ceinwen
Ceinwen Fergus
Eagraí Litearthachta d'Aosaigh | Regional Literacy Coordinator
Bord Oideachais agus Oiliúna an Chabháin agus Mhuineacháin
Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board
Dun Mhuire, Mullaghmonaghan, Muineachán, Co. Muineachán, H18 T383
Dun Mhuire, Mullaghmonaghan, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan, H18 T383
W: www.cmetb.ie | T: 087 0687841o
14- Free Chair Yoga Class
15- Writing Your EU Funding Applications Training for PPN Members
16 - Rainbow Refugee Awareness Workshop LGBT Ireland would like to invite you to our first in-person Rainbow Refugee Awareness Workshop, taking place in Dundalk on Friday, 11 July, as part of Dundalk Pride 2025.
Rainbow Refugee Awareness Workshop | Hosted by LGBT Ireland
Friday, 11 July 2025 | 10:00am – 1:00pm
Venue: Outcomers, 8 Roden Place, Dundalk, Co. Louth
This free, in-person session is designed for county-level agencies and service providers who work with refugees and international protection applicants (IPAs). This workshop will highlight the often overlooked needs and challenges of LGBT+ refugees and IPAs – and offer practical guidance on how to create more inclusive and supportive environments.
Registration with tea/coffee from 9:30am
Workshop runs from 10:00am to 1:00pm
Followed by a light lunch and informal networking
Why This Matters
While many agencies work hard to support refugee populations, the specific experiences and challenges faced by LGBT+ refugees and IPAs frequently remain invisible. This invisibility can lead to gaps in care, unintentional exclusion, and missed opportunities for meaningful support.
What You'll Learn
The unique barriers and risks LGBT+ refugees and international protection applicants face during displacement and resettlement – from risks in their countries of origin to isolation, discrimination and lack of safety in accommodation systems here in Ireland.
Why their needs are often invisible – and why visibility matters
Hear from experts by lived experience of the issues
Concrete steps your agency can take to become more inclusive
Ways to collaborate with organisations working directly with LGBT+ refugees and IPAs
We’d be grateful if you could forward this invitation to colleagues or others in your network who may benefit from attending.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions. We are looking forward to connecting with you and learning together.
SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS
17- Romanian Community of Ireland Survey
We, the Romanian Community of Ireland, are getting in touch to kindly ask that you help promote the survey below to the PPN member groups from the local community in Cavan.
Since its establishment in 1998, the Romanian Community of Ireland (RCI) has organised many events to promote Romanian culture, enhance integration initiatives for all ages, provide information and signpost the community towards helpful resources and opportunities to participate. In October 2023, in recognition of the organisation’s long standing achievements, RCI was awarded the Medal of Cultural Merit by the Romanian President, Klaus Johannis.
However, we are acutely aware that the demographic profile and needs of the Romanian diaspora in Ireland are rapidly changing. According to the latest Census 2022 figures, there are more than 42,460 Romanians living in Ireland, which represents an increase of more than 67%% since the 2016 census.
The Romanian Community of Ireland wishes to explore and capture this change and would need your support to promote a survey for the Romanian speaking community in Ireland, which includes and is not limited to Romanian and Moldovan nationals, members of the Roma community and anyone living in Ireland who speaks Romanian.
The survey is anonymous. It takes 7-10 minutes to complete and is in Romanian (a summary in English is attached). The closing date for the survey is the 22nd of June 2025.
Survey link:
18- Call To Identify Areas for Bathing Waters In County Cavan
Public Notice: Public participation in the identification of ‘bathing waters’ under the Bathing Waters Directive 2006/7 EC of 15th February 2006 and the Bathing Water Quality Regulations SI 79 of 2008
All 31 city and county councils are inviting public participation in the identification of Bathing Waters under the Bathing Waters Directive and the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 (SI No 79 of 2008).
The Directive requires that water quality at all identified bathing waters meets stringent microbiological standards in order to protect the health of people who choose to bathe there. City and county councils are required under the 2008 Regulations to identify bathing waters on an annual basis.
This consultation process provides the public with an opportunity to:
Comment on existing identified bathing waters with a view to continuation of classification
Comment on other bathing waters not currently identified but which may be considered for classification.
Comments are invited from interested parties.
This should be done through your local county council in whose area the bathing water is located. Visit www.cavancoco.ie/bathing-waters.
Closing date for submissions to Cavan County Council is 26/9/2025.
19- Dance Connects Survey
Call to promote local dance facilitators and local venues
We’re looking to include local dance facilitators, artists, and local venues in two public
databases: one of venues available or hireable for dance activity, and one of dance
facilitators and artists working and/or based in the Cavan, Monaghan and Fermanagh-
Omagh district council / local authority areas.
Complete the 5mins survey to be included in the Dance Facilitators and Artists
Database. Dance Connects Faciliators Database
Complete the 5mins survey to include your venue in the Venues for Dance Activity
Database. Dance Connects Venue Database
What if I think my practice/genre isn't suitable for the database?
Please complete the survey anyway. The database is inclusive of various dance genres.
Plus, by completing the survey you will help us build understanding about the local
dance scene, community, and industry.
What if I think my venue isn't suitable for dance?
Please complete the survey anyway. All kinds of dance activities can happen in different
types of venues. Plus, by completing the survey you will help us understand what your
venue is like so we can help build understanding about our local venues.
The database is part of the Dance Connects project. Funded by Creative Ireland, Dance
Connects seeks to support a network of dance activity in the rural border area of Cavan,
Monaghan, and Fermanagh-Omagh.
Please complete the survey by the 25 th of June.
If you have any questions, you may contact Victoria Durrer, University College Dublin, at
Victoria.durrer@ucd.ie or 01 716 8649.
More information on the research team involved in the project is available at the survey
link.
20- Show YOUR Support For LEADER & Community Led Local Development Show your support for LEADER and community-led local development.
For over 30 years, LEADER and community-led local development (CLLD) have demonstrated that bottom-up, participatory approaches can successfully address rural challenges. Through Local Action Groups (LAGs), these tools mobilise local knowledge, build social capital, and implement innovative solutions tailored to each community’s specific needs. A petition has been set up to ensure the LEADER and CLLD remain the the core of EU policies. Show your support by signing the petition here
21- National Recycling Bin Survey
National Recycling Bin Survey is back!
In 2023, VOICE Ireland led the first National Recycling Bin Survey (NRBS), a citizen-led piece of research involving 130 participants across 12 counties. With this survey we took a deep dive into what’s really ending up in our recycling bins, but also attributing this waste to specific retail sectors. Together, these households catalogued over 10,000 individual items – and what we found was eye-opening.
Plastic made up 50% of the average Irish recycling bin, and supermarkets were responsible for two-thirds of all packaging waste. That means the problem isn’t just individual behaviour – it’s what’s being put on our shelves in the first place.
This year, we're back for Edition Two – and we're calling on households across the country to take part.
The goals of the Survey
The National Recycling Bin Survey is a citizen-led research project unlike anything else in Ireland. It asks simple but powerful questions: What’s in your recycling bin – and where did it come from?
By collecting this information, we’re doing two things:
Shifting the blame: For too long, the focus of waste reduction has been on consumer behaviour. But what if we looked further upstream? This survey flips the script and looks at the source of packaging waste – retailers and producers – so we can push for changes that actually reduce waste at the design and distribution stages.
Informing evolutions for better policies: Since the first NRBS, new policies like the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) have launched in Ireland, and the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is bringing in new rules across Europe. These changes are a step in the right direction – but without independent, citizen-led data, it’s hard to measure their real impact or make the case for going further.
By joining the National Recycling Bin Survey, you will contribute to an important environmental database in the country. You’ll:
Count and record the packaging in your household’s recycling bin
Note where items came from (supermarkets, takeaways, etc.)
Reflect on your own consumption – and maybe even be surprised by it!
It’s a small commitment but can have a big impact.
Here is the link for people to sign up:
Don’t worry, we’ll provide you with all the instruction you need to take part easily – no science degree required.
Bonus: Anyone who signs-in will automatically enter our Recycling Bin Survey competition to win one of five 100€ One4All gift voucher.
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
22- Cavan Monaghan Connects Launch
23- Waste into Opportunity for Smarter Communities
Join Us for a Hands-On Waste Management & Recycling Workshop! ️
Are you ready to turn waste into a valuable resource? Our upcoming workshop dives into the essentials of sustainable waste management and recycling, with a special focus on compost making—because organic waste deserves a second life!
This initiative brings together communities from both sides to share knowledge, collaborate, and take action for a cleaner future.
What to Expect:
• Engaging discussions on waste reduction and responsible recycling practices
• Practical, hands-on composting techniques—learn by doing!
• Expert insights on transforming food scraps into rich, nourishing soil
• Q&A session to address your recycling and sustainability questions
• A unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals across regions
Through this cross-border initiative, we aim to foster collaboration, build stronger environmental networks, and empower individuals to make a lasting impact. Whether you're new to sustainability or an experienced advocate, there’s something for everyone!
Date & Time: Tuesday 24th June 2025 7:00pm
Location: Ballyconnell Community Centre, Doon, Ballyconnell, Co Cavan, H14 AY24
Register Now & Join the Movement!
TO REGISTER CLICK HERE:
Excited to get your hands dirty for a cleaner planet? See you there!
24- RetroFit Ready June Newsletter
25- Art of Life Workshops
26- Three New GLAS Job Opportunities in Cavan/Monaghan
We are excited to announce three new vacancies as part of a new GLAS Monaghan/Cavan programme, and we would greatly appreciate your assistance in spreading the word within your network.
The GLAS Monaghan programme aims to bring our unique combination of social inclusion and environmental education to the border region. To make the programme a success, we are currently recruiting for three roles: A Programme Coordinator, an Education Officer and a Horticulturist.
Each of these roles presents a unique opportunity to informed community climate action, and make a meaningful impact in County Monaghan and Cavan. We are looking for motivated individuals who are passionate about community gardens, social inclusion, mental health and education.
Please find more details about these vacancies on our website at https://globalactionplan.ie/blogs/join-the-new-glas-monaghan-programme/
If you know of anyone within your network who might be interested, or if you could share this information through your organisation's channels, it would be immensely helpful to us.
Thank you for considering this request. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me directly via hans@globalactionplan.ie
We appreciate your support in spreading the word about these exciting opportunities.
27- Winners of Get SunSmart Art Competition
Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor has today announced the winners of the fourth annual Get SunSmart! Art Competition.
The competition, which received entries from all over the country, was run in partnership with Healthy Ireland and the National Cancer Control Programme in the Health Service Executive (HSE), as part of the annual SunSmart campaign which aims to raise awareness and adoption of skin protective behaviours.
The winners for 2025 are:
Pre-schools – Alex Faconer, aged 4 from Piltown Co. Kilkenny
Junior Infants to 1st Class – Mohammad Salaar, aged 6 from Ringsend, Dublin 4
2nd to 4th Class – Irene Mariam Mathew, aged 10 from Blackrock, Co. Cork
5th and 6th Class – Alexandru Grati, aged 11 from Clonee, Dublin 15
Depending on their age group, children were tasked with either colouring in the SunSmart 5Ss picture or drawing their own picture illustrating how to be SunSmart.
Minister Murnane O’Connor said:
“Children’s skin is particularly vulnerable to sun damage, and instilling healthy habits in our children at a young age is vital for their health later in life.
“I want to congratulate our winners, and all the runners up, for their fantastic entries, which displayed such talent, creativity, and originality. They should be hugely proud of their achievements in not only doing so well in the competition but in helping to spread our SunSmart message.
“Skin cancer is almost entirely preventable, yet it is the most common cancer in Ireland with over 11,000 new cases per year. We know that severe sunburn during childhood (three or more instances before the age of 20) is associated with a two to four times higher risk of developing melanoma skin cancer in later life. Reducing rates of skin cancer is a significant part of our drive to improve overall population health, and this starts by instilling good skin protection behaviours in childhood.”
To be SunSmart you need to follow the 5Ss of the SunSmart code, from April to September, even on cloudy days:
Slip on clothing that covers your skin such as wearing long sleeves and collared t-shirts.
Slop on broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) water-resistant sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30+ for adults and 50+ for children, with high UVA protection. Reapply regularly.
Slap on a hat with a wide brim: Protect your face, ears and neck.
Seek shade: Sit in cover of trees to avoid direct sunlight and use a sunshade on your buggy or pram. Keep babies and children out of direct sunlight.
Slide on sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Visit www.gov.ie/getsunsmart to learn more about the 5Ss of the SunSmart code.
More information on the winners and on the winning artwork can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/svSM8SMPLIo
28- Killeshandra Video Theatre Up and Running For You
Birdwatch Cavan made full use recently of the new Killeshandra Video Theatre for their spring lecture to highlight the arrival of Swifts and the Great Spotted Woodpecker to these parts.
The new Clar funded Killeshandra audio-visual Video Theatre has wheelchair access and tiered seating for up to fifty persons, is located in the Resource Centre and can be hired for community events such as lectures and screening of locally produced video. Contact the KCC office at 049-4334990 or Email:killcomco@gmail.com
29- PPN Summer Community Seminar Great Success
The Cavan Public Participation Network Plenary (we think ‘Community Seminar’ is a friendlier term) was held on Friday the 13th of June last. Though unlucky for some, the day was a charmed and blessed one for all who attended. It kicked off with the wonderful lounge piano music of local artist Cormac McCann while people arrived for their first round of tea and coffee along with some sweet treats.
Our first segment revolved around the administrative duties of a ‘Plenary’, reporting on the work, finances, policy and representational changes since the last Plenary. The PPN Coordinator Daniel Downey and Administrator Finian McNamara reported on these. Finian also covered the FREE training that PPN member groups can avail of through our network, paid for by the PPN and delivered by our partner organisations or ourselves directly.
We moved on to our guest of honour and main speaker of the evening, the new Arts Officer of Cavan County Council, Karina Charles. In a facilitated conversational interview, Karina spoke to us about her own artistic journey, the role of the Arts Officer in relation to community groups and supporting the arts and her own hopes for the future of an Arts rich County Cavan. We opened it up to the floor, whereupon one member asked if Karina would grace us with a song. She did not fail to deliver and sang a beautiful traditional verse for all present.
The session then opened to our two guest speakers. Carol Smyth from Shercock Tidy Towns gave a fantastic overview of a new volunteer-led community initiative which aims to bring together, support and enhance the Tidy Towns groups of the entire county. She was followed by Bridget Boyle from The Cavan Disability Network who spoke not only of the work of the Network but of her own personal journey in Disability and how we can all work together to bring about a fairer Cavan society for all.
The Plenary concluded with an amazing treat. One of the most recent member groups, The Mountnugent Cultural Development Association hosts and supports the dancers of The Smith-Boylan School of Irish Dancing. These incredible acrobatic artists whirled, dervished and spun their way through a mesmerizing fifteen minutes with all entranced by their performance.
The evening finished with beautiful catering from The Good Batch, served in the incredible setting of our County Museum where people could have tea and chat amongst themselves for networking, exchanging information and sharing stories. Our special thanks to all our speakers and entertainers, the caterers and museum and to Chair of the Ballyjamesduff MD, Councilor Trevor Smith, for attending. Our next Seminar will be taking place in November in Ballyconnell. We look forward to seeing you there.
30- Host a Cuppa For Climate This June
Following the fantastic response to our first Cuppa for Climate taster—where people got a feel for how simple and powerful it is to bring others together over a Cuppa—we’re holding it again!
We’d love for you to join us:
Morn Session: Cuppa for Climate Taster June 2025 - Lunch 12pm_ Final
Evening Session: Cuppa for Climate Taster June evening 2025
If you don’t know what Cuppa for Climate is - it is a coffee morning with a difference. A way to bring your family, friends, neighbours or colleagues together to support and raise funds for our planet.
March and April were a whirlwind—in the best way. Earth Month gave us the perfect excuse to gather, chat, and reflect, and it’s been amazing to see so many people open their doors to climate conversations. I had the privilege of joining a few of the Cuppa’s and it’s been great to see so many people of all ages coming together to talk about our earth. There were Cuppas all over the country - from Letterfrack to Dublin, Tipperary to across the pond in Vancouver, Canada! Supporters like you have brought their communities together in the last few months—celebrating Earth Day and sparking action, one cuppa at a time.
"We talked about everything from environment, to class, to the decline of trade and crafts. Cuppa for Climate provided this platform, to create activist spaces that are local and in-person. It was a fantastic opportunity to do something for climate change that didn’t involve being online or campaigning, rather a cosy curious gathering.”
- Hannah, Cuppa for Climate host.
With everything happening around us, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or disconnected. But coming together—especially in small, meaningful ways—has never been more powerful. Hosting a coffee morning isn’t just about the tea and treats. It’s a chance to connect, reflect, and energise each other. These simple gatherings are a way of standing up to the systems harming our planet. They remind us that we are stronger together, that community is a source of power, and that real change begins with honest conversations.
"It gave a lot of inspiration and encouragement... people started to talk about what we could actually do in our own community. Some residents are starting to plant flowers more consciously…and they are cleaning up more. Personally, it gave me a lot of motivation. Now we are hoping to intensify the collaboration with FOE for getting deeper into the issues of Climate change. There is a feeling, we want and need to know much more.” - Karin, Cuppa for Climate host.
Feeling inspired?Come along to our next Cuppa Taster and see how it all works. Until then, have a look at our latest blog about our recent Cuppas.
31- Do You Provide Services For Adults with Disabilities In Cavan?
Cavan Disability Network, in conjunction with Cavan County Local Development, intends to produce a resource booklet of statutory and non-statutory services in County Cavan for Adults with Disabilities .If you would like to be included in this booklet please email Cavan Disability Network cavandisabilitynetwork@gmail.com no later than Monday 30th June 2025, and include the following information:
The name of your service/organisation/community group
A brief (150 words max) description of your service/organisation/community group
A contact phone number, and email/website if you have one
Your operating days/hours if applicable
If providing details of a contact person please just state their role e.g. Service Manager/Chairperson/Volunteer as opposed to a person’s name as roles change and people move on, and we are aiming to keep the booklet as current as possible
32- Houses Not Hazards Photo Exhibition
Dear PPN Comunity Groups,
“I’m really feeling the cold, you know… and the rest of the complex needs attention, big attention big time. The children's playground has gone completely mouldy. That needs to be done again. And there is moss growing all over it as well. We need to talk to this council. They need to be pushed, you know? They need to be pushed because they don't listen to the people.”
This is a testimony shared by a tenant of Emmett Buildings, Dublin 8, who spoke at our recent workshop. Sadly, this is not an isolated incident—it points at the systemic issue of unhealthy and substandard housing conditions faced by scores of tenants in Dublin City Council estates. In general, such lower quality housing with lower energy efficiency standards rely more on fossil fuel heating, which not only puts people at health risk in their own homes, but also fuels the climate crisis. Such energy inefficient homes also mean extortionate energy bills.
It only follows that it’s indispensable to centre and amplify the voices of those living in such poor quality and woefully insulated housing, especially that of tenants who remain locked out of most retrofitting schemes. It’s with this in mind that we’re co-launching a photo exhibition Homes not Hazards: ‘There's something about these flats’ in Tailors Hall, Dublin 8 on June 28th. The exhibition, which we’re collaboratively hosting with Community Action Tenants Union (CATU) and the Just Housing research project in Maynooth University, brings to light the housing conditions and lived experiences of tenants in local authority homes in Cromcastle Court in Coolock and Emmet Buildings in Dublin 8.
What: Homes not Hazards: ‘There's something about these flats’ photo exhibitionWhen: The exhibition is open from 11am, with a brief discussion to launch the exhibition taking place from 1-1:30pm, followed by a collaborative workshop at 2:30pm.Where: Tailors Hall, Dublin 8
33- Good Governance Awards 2025 Now Open
Good Governance Awards 2025 Now Open for Entries!
Transparency and accountability are vital for any nonprofit to build and maintain public trust. That’s according to Carmichael, who last week launched their Good Governance Awards 2025.
Now in its tenth year, the Good Governance Awards recognise and encourage adherence to responsible governance and transparent reporting by nonprofits in Ireland.
Details on the entry criteria and categories; the judging panel; how to enter; and other resources such as annual report templates are available at: www.goodgovernanceawards.ie
The deadline for entries is: 11 September, 2025.
34- Yarnspinners with Dr Senem Donatan Mohan
June Bréifne Yarnspinners with guest teller Dr. Senem Donatan Mohan
Senem is a myth tracker, passionate about tracing myths back to their origins in indigenous cultures. She shares personal stories interwoven with creation myths and wisdom tales, primarily from Middle Eastern folklore, reflecting the region where she grew up and her ancestors lived.
Hosted by Daniel Downey McAtackney, Bréifne Yarnspinners
Friday June 20th, 7.30pm
Upstairs Meeting Room in Townhall Arts Centre
FREE EVENT - BOOKING ESSENTIAL
Box Office 049 - 4380494 or online https://townhallcavan.ticketsolve.com/.../shows/1173665057
Kindly supported by Townhall Arts Centre Storytellers Of Ireland, Armstong Storytelling Trust and the International Fund for Ireland.
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