Cavan Community ENews 22.5.26
- 1 day ago
- 25 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
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, Finian & Daniel). info@cavanppn.ie, CavanPPN, CCLD, Corlurgan, Cavan. H12 X9Y1
CONTENTS (Shaded are new items this week, but all are still relevant/in date)
FUNDING
1. FUNDING: Simone Veil Prize
2. FUNDING: Wetlands Restoration Fund
3. FUNDING: Shared Island Civic Society Fund
4. FUNDING: Arts & Health Award 5. FUNDING: Working with Nature Awards
6. FUNDING: Festival Investment Scheme 7. FUNDING: Sustainability Step-Up Fund
8. FUNDING: Culture Night Open Call
9. FUNDING: Community Men's Health Research Fund
10. FUNDING: Peace Plus Website
TRAINING 11. TRAINING: 0-36 month Child parenting Training 12. TRAINING: New Community Training Courses for PPN Groups 13. TRAINING: Building Trust in Communities Programme 14. TRAINING: Building Resilient Young People Training 15- TRAINING: ICDL Computer Skills
SURVEYS/CONSULTS
16.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Wind Farm Between Killeshandra & Belturbet
17.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Cavan Local Community Safety Survey
18. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Child Pay & Working Age
19.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Tourism Accomodation Strategy
20.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Community Barriers to Opening Bank Accounts
21.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Hearing Care Services
22.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Social Enterprise Census
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS 23. Cavan Pride March Is Happening!!! 24. Hidden Life on Fartrin Bog 25. Pod Youth Theatre Summer Camp 26. Hospice Sunflower Day Call for Volunteers 27. Killeshandra Focus Family Resource Centre Seeks Board Members 28. LCDCs, their role and value 29- New Cat & Dog Laws 30- Age Friendly Nominations Open
31- Congo Summer Community Event 32 -Urban Rural Divide in Ireland 33 - Biodiversity at Drummany 34- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th 35 Afro-Ceili Event 36- Campa Samhraidh 2026
FUNDING
Simone Veil Prize
The first edition of the Simone Veil Prize is now open for applications!
This new European cultural prize is named after Simone Veil, a Holocaust survivor, first President of the European Parliament, and tireless advocate for human rights.
Co-funded by the Creative Europe programme, the Prize recognises initiatives leveraging heritage and places of memory to promote civic engagement, education, and democratic values. Europe’s shared history is shaped by the contributions of many cultures, including Jewish cultural heritage, and this action reflects that.
Important to know:
5 different categories, including heritage for dialogue and youth engagement
Prizes given to up to 25 finalists
5 Grand Prix winners will receive €10,000 each
31 July 2026 (23:59 CET) deadline to apply
Award ceremony at the end of the year.
Find info about the requirements and apply now:
2. Wetlands Restoration Fund
Open call for wetland restoration plans and projects - 3rd June
Costed proposals are being sought for wetland plans and projects that will be funded by Tóchar. The proposed plans and projects should:
Assist with the understanding and knowledge base for any aspect of a specific wetland sites’ ecology, hydrology or Greenhouse Gas emissions.
Map wetland attributes such as vegetation, habitats, species, drains, watercourses.
Produce restoration plans to improve and enhance the wetland’s conservation status, in order to increase the wetland’s functional resilience and biodiversity value.
Deliver restoration works onsite, in line with appropriate consents and permissions appropriate with the designation status, and in line with best practice methodology for the characteristics of the wetland.
Produce management or feasibility studies for improving access/reducing impacts of recreation on wetland sites which already are in use for amenity purposes.
Wetlands must be located within the Just Transition region, or directly adjacent to the Just Transition boundary. If a wetland site is outside the boundary but it can be demonstrated that the site is part of a wetland complex that extends into the territory, thereby benefitting the territory, proposals can be accepted.
Deadline: 3rd June 2026
3. The Shared Island Civic Society Fund
Shared Island Civic Society Fund - 2nd Jun
The Shared Island Civic Society Fund was developed as part of the Government’s Shared Island initiative and promotes practical North-South cooperation between civic society organisations working on either side of the border, consistent with the objectives and the commitments of the Good Friday Agreement. The Fund supports grassroots, cross-border projects that have a clear North South dimension, involving cross-border partners collaborating on a project to strengthen North South civic, economic, cultural, and/or political links.
Deadline: 2nd June 2026
4. Arts & Health Awards
Are you an artist with an established arts and health practice? Would you like an opportunity to reflect on your work in health and social care contexts?
The artsandhealth.ie Artist Reflective Bursary is open to individual artists working in any artform in the Republic of Ireland.
This bursary is designed to provide artists with the time and headspace to reflect on and interrogate their participatory practice with health and social care communities.
One bursary award of €2000 will be offered to the successful applicant.
5. Working with Nature Awards
The Working with Nature Awards recognise individuals, community groups and organisations across Ireland who are actively protecting, restoring and reconnecting people with nature.
Now in its second year, the Awards celebrate impactful work across three categories:1. Biodiversity & Rewilding, 2.Nature Media, and 3.Nature Education & Wellbeing.
Open to projects of all sizes, the Awards aim to highlight real, on-the-ground action while providing a platform to share stories that inspire wider change.
Nominations are now open until 25 May, with the Awards Ceremony taking place on 2 July at Powerscourt Estate.
More information and entry details:
6. Festival Investment Scheme
Festivals Investment Scheme 2027 - Round 1 - 28th May
The Festivals Investment Scheme supports small-to-mid-scale festivals to deliver high-quality arts experiences for audiences.
It focuses on programmes engaged with, and relevant to, local communities or communities of interest.
Round 1 for festivals commencing 1 January–30 June 2027
Band A – for awards up to €10,000
Band B – for awards of €10,001–€25,000
Band C – for awards of €25,001–€45,000
Deadline: 28th May 2026
7. Sustainability Step-Up Fund
About the Sustainability Step-Up Fund:
The Sustainability Step-Up Fund supports social innovations across Ireland to scale their impact and address the climate crisis and its interconnected challenges.
The fund comes at a particularly important time as communities across Ireland face increasing environmental challenges alongside rising inequality. The Sustainability Step-Up Fund seeks to tackle these challenges head-on by supporting up to five organisations that have a social and environmental impact by working in the space of the circular economy, climate stewardship, action and education, biodiversity restoration, community development or sustainable practices.
Both established organisations ready to scale and earlier-stage initiatives that are up and running and looking to step up their impact and strengthen their long-term sustainability are eligible to apply. Applicants must come from an entity that has a not-for-profit legal form, e.g. a company limited by guarantee, social enterprise, a co-operative, trust, or charity.
This award includes:
A multi-year cash grant worth up to €210,000 over an 18-month project implementation period (per successful project)
Non-financial supports, including:
A place on Rethink Ireland’s Accelerator Programme
Business and capacity-building supports designed in consultation with successful projects on topics such as strategic planning, impact management, communications, and fundraising.
Access to Rethink Ireland’s networks.
Applicants are invited to join one of our application clinics on Thursday, 7 May or Tuesday, 19 May 2026. These one-hour webinars will provide information on fund eligibility and the application process and offer an opportunity to answer any questions you have. Register for an application clinic here:
Application Clinic 1 (Thursday, 7 May, 10.00am) – Register here
Application Clinic 2 (Tuesday, 19 May, 10.00am) – Register here
In the meantime, for any questions you may have, please contact us at sustainabilityfund@rethinkireland.ie
Applicants can apply to the Sustainability Step-Up Fund via this online application form. Applications deadline is 28 May 2026 at 1:00PM.
The full list of eligibility criteria can be found here on our website, as well as details on how to submit your online application and all other relevant information.
We would be delighted if you could share this information with your networks and stakeholders. Thank you.
8- Culture Night Open Call
Call for Applications – Culture Night Cavan 2026!
Cavan Arts and Cavan County Council are delighted to announce Culture Night 2026 will take place on Friday 18 September, from 4pm until late!
Tá lúcháir ar Ealaíon an Chabháin agus ar Chomhairle Contae an Chabháin a fhógairt go mbeidh Oíche Chultúir 2026 ar siúl Dé hAoine, an 18 Meán Fómhair, ó 4in go déanach san oíche!
We’re inviting artists, creatives, community groups and organisations across County Cavan to get involved in this vibrant, all-island celebration of culture, creativity and the arts.
Funding available: €250 – €1,200
Deadline: Sunday 28 June at 8:00pm
Culture Night brings people together to experience culture in all its forms – from arts and heritage to music, performance, Irish language, community initiatives and more. Please ensure where possible projects that inclusive, accessible, and engaging for diverse audiences.
To apply, you will need to upload:
• A budget (Word or Excel)
• An image you have permission to use promoting the event
To apply scan the QR code or Click: https://forms.office.com/e/N8Bu5yrmLy
Please ensure all sections of the application form are completed and submitted.
Queries: obrady@cavancoco.ie
Let’s make it a night to remember!
9- Community Men's Health Research Fund
Movember is launching a new global funding opportunity across Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States (California only). This program embeds Community Fellows (early career researchers <5 years post-PhD) directly within community organizations already improving the lives of boys and young men.
The focus is simple: generate high-quality, real-world evidence on what works. Community Fellows will work alongside practitioners to understand, strengthen, and evidence approaches that improve emotional and relational health for boys and young men aged 12–35.
Grounded in community-based participatory research, the program centers equity, shared power, and lived experience. It focuses on three core areas of men’s health:
Coping and consumption – Social connection – Early fatherhood
aww
Community Fellows are funded for three years with global mentorship and a world-class learning network – giving them everything they need to embed within community organizations and generate evidence that drives real change. Funding is administered through host universities. Community organizations receive an annual contribution to support their capacity to host the Community Fellow, participate in shared learning and evaluation, and connect with a wider community of practice alongside Movember and other funded partners.
Deadline: 19th June 2026
More info: https://grantsandfunding.ie/community-mens-health-research-program-funding-launches-in-may/
10- PeacePlus Webpage Open
Good Afternoon
After a very successful launch of Maximising Community Space in Ballyronan on the 29th of April 2026, we are now delighted to share with you the dedicated MCS PEACEPLUS webpage live on the IRL website, which includes the Expression of Interest Form.
Please feel free to share this within your networks and among social enterprises that could benefit from this valuable support project. PEACEPLUS MCS Project Enjoys Official Launch https://irishrurallink.ie/launch-of-maximising-community-space-peaceplus-project/
(PRESS RELEASE)PEACEPLUS MCS (Maximising Community Space) Irish Rural Link https://irishrurallink.ie/projects/maximising-community-space/
and www.ruralaction.co (EXPRESSION OF INTEREST)
Brian, James and Evelyn on behalf of the PEACEPLUS MCS Project Team, look forward to staying in touch and keeping you updated as the project develops.For further information email MCS@irishrurallink.ie Have a wonderful afternoon, Evelyn Slevin Project Officer MCS.TRAINING
11- 0-36 Month Child Parenting Training
12- Free Community Training For CavanPPN members Cavan PPN currently has a number of training courses available to our member groups.
They are available FREE OF CHARGE for member groups.
All the courses are online and places are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cavan PPN provides access to a number of other training opportunities, all focused on community & voluntary groups/organisations. For more information, please click here.
(Please note: you must be part of a member group of Cavan PPN to avail of these training courses).
For more information, and to register, please click on the link below: Events | Cavan PPN | Public Participation Network
13- Building Trust in Communities Programme
We are pleased to invite you to consider participating in the upcoming Building Trust in
Communities programme, supported by Cavan Co Council PEACEPLUS LAAP. This unique
three-part programme is designed to support a deeper sense of belonging and engagement
within our communities and is offered free of charge to all participants.
The programme includes:
Part 1: Orientation/Introductory Workshop
6th June 2026 – Cavan Adventure Centre, Butler’s Bridge, Co. Cavan H12 CD43
Part 2: Residential Gathering/Retreat
3rd to 5th July 2026 – An Tobar Retreat Centre, Navan, Co. Meath
Part 3: Follow-Up Workshop Day
18th July 2026 – Civic centre, Belturbet, Co. Cavan H14 VH57
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 relationshipwith others and in community. The Programme is a resource that will support participants’sense of belonging and engagement in community.
If you would like to register, please contact Noreen Sudbury at nsudbury@cavancoco.ie by
22nd May 2026.
For further information, feel free to reach out to:
Rita McNulty – ritamcnulty0@gmail.com, Tel. 087 6295453
Mary Manning – suaimhneasmary@gmail.com, Tel. 087 2421330
14 Building Resilient Young People Training
Hello
I am the Training Co-ordinator at Inspire. We have a FREE Building Resilient Young People interactive training workshop to offer anyone working directly or indirectly with young people.
The training workshop is part of the wider PEACE of Mind project but there is no obligation to take up the full programme.
Sessions are approx. 2 hours and focus on mental health & wellbeing - see attached poster and digital brochure. Happy to discuss further.
PEACE of Mind
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.
Here’s a quick overview of the main pathways we offer.
PEACE of Mind Programme
A six‑week series of group sessions that help young people explore emotions, understand stress, and build resilience in a gentle, accessible way.
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Peer Mentor Training
For young people who want to build confidence and support others, this training helps them grow as leaders in a safe and supported environment.
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Building Resilient Young People
Training sessions that help you to notice when a young person you support might be struggling, understand how to respond safely, and also look after their own wellbeing at the same time.
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Tailored Delivery for Your Group
For groups with specific needs, we can adapt PEACE of Mind to fit your setting, timetable and the unique experiences of your young people.
Whether you’re a school, youth club or community organisation, we work with you to shape session lengths, focus areas and delivery styles so the programme feels relevant, accessible and meaningful for your group.
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We’d love to offer this programme to young people in your organisation, especially if you’re noticing increasing pressures on their wellbeing or if you’re looking for additional wellbeing support that delivers meaningful and manageable change.
You can reply directly to this email, or get in touch here: PEACE of Mind
PEACE of Mind is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Many thanks
Jenny Groves Training & Administration Co-ordinator
Mobile: 07834 181303 | Address: Inspire Central Office Lombard House 10-20 Lombard Street Belfast, BT1 1RD |
15- ICLD Community Skills Training
Would you like to learn or improve your computer skills?
If so, please see the information and links to the courses below.
The International Computer Driving License (ICDL) certificate aims to give learners the skills to use a computer competently and confidently. The ICDL is one of the most recognised computer user certifications in the world.
Please note the following:
These courses are online only.
They are free of charge.
You must be in full or part-time employment or self-employed.
You must be over 18 years old.
These courses are not delivered by Cavan PPN.
SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS
16- Wind Farm Between Killeshandra & Belturbet EIA
ABO Energy Ireland Ltd. are seeking to develop a Wind Farm within the townlands of Killyfern, Listiernan, Kilnaglare, Macknan and Bulligs, County Cavan.
Accordingly, we have commenced the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process to support a forthcoming planning application that will be submitted to Cavan County Council. The proposed wind farm site is located circa 5.4 km to the north of Killashandra, circa 3.1 km to the west of the village of Milltown and circa 6.4 km to the southwest of Belturbet town, County Cavan.
Further details of the proposed project can be found by request in a Scoping Report, Preliminary Site Location, Site Layout and Grid Connection Route Drawings are attached for your information.
We are consulting with you on this proposal as it may be of interest to your organisation. While you will be presented with the opportunity to make a submission on the proposed development as part of the statutory planning process, we wanted to engage with you early in the process to make you aware of the emerging proposals and to provide you the opportunity to comment as necessary. If there are any key issues which you consider should be addressed during the preparation of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) we would welcome your input at this stage.
Should this consultation request be directed to another contact within your organisation we would be grateful if you could forward this information to them, or alternatively respond to this email and provide us with the appropriate contact.
If you have any queries or require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind Regards,
Tiernan Keane
Project Planner
ABO Energy Ireland Limited
Unit 3, Aspen CourtCornelscourtDublin 18D18 TD56
Phone: +353 (01) 207 0452
Mobile: +353 (0) 87 973 4479
E-mail: Tiernan.Keane@aboenergy.com
Web: www.aboenergy.ie
17- Cavan Local Community Safety Survey
Cavan Local Community Safety Partnership has launched a county wide
Community Safety Survey and is encouraging everyone age 12 years and over
to take part.
The survey will help shape the new County Cavan Community Safety Plan
2026–2028, ensuring that local priorities and actions reflect the real concerns
of those who live, work, and visit the county.
Community safety — both being safe and feeling safe — is a fundamental part
of quality of life. That’s why we want to hear from people across all our
communities. Your feedback will play a vital role in identifying key challenges,
needs, and opportunities and will directly inform the new three year plan.
Online: Visit https://consult.cavancoco.ie/en/content/cavan-community-
Please note the survey is available in English and Irish.
Irish:
English:
Closing date: Midnight 31 May, 2026
Paper copies: Available in all libraries and public buildings throughout County Cavan
18- Consult on Child Payment & Working Age
Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD, has today launched a discussion document and consultation process on a potential new targeted child payment, as well as a potential new working age payment in Ireland.
This consultation is in keeping with Programme for Government commitments.
The proposed new payments aim to reduce child poverty through establishing a standalone weekly payment for low-income families with children, and to remove ‘cliff-edges’ in payments which discourage people from taking up additional work.
The draft proposals for the introduction of the two proposed payments are contained in a ‘Discussion Document’ published today by Minister Calleary.
The proposals in the Discussion Document are ideas as to how any new payments could be implemented, and aim to gather views from the public.
No decisions have yet been made as to what changes, if any, will be made to the social welfare system. Ultimately, informed by this consultation the Government may decide to:
Keep things as they are,
Keep the existing system, but change some of the rules of the existing payments, or
Introduce a more fundamental reform based on discussions and feedback
19- Tourism Accomodation Strategy
The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (hereafter referred to as ‘the Department’) is inviting views to support the development of a new Tourist Accommodation Strategy for Ireland.
This initiative forms part of the commitments outlined in A New Era for Irish Tourism, ensuring that Ireland continues to offer a competitive, high-quality tourism experience.
Tourist accommodation plays a vital role in supporting local economies, community wellbeing, and Ireland’s wider visitor experience. The strategy will guide the future development of both traditional and emerging accommodation models across the country. The strategy will be aimed at supporting regional balance, growth in emerging destinations, encouraging innovation, and ensuring environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
Background
The Tourist Accommodation Strategy is being developed to ensure Ireland has a diverse, and future focused mix of accommodation that supports the long-term development of the tourism sector. Key policy aims include:
Ensuring an adequate and appropriate supply of accommodation to meet evolving visitor needs and support long term growth, particularly in emerging destinations with untapped tourism potential.
Strengthening regional balance by encouraging investment in emerging destinations and improving the spread of economic benefits.
Supporting innovation and diversification in accommodation models, including environmentally sustainable options and new formats aligned with changing consumer expectations.
Aligning development with environmental, social and economic sustainability, ensuring tourist accommodation supports climate commitments, protects natural and cultural assets, and contributes meaningful economic benefits and long‑term wellbeing for local communities.
Improving sector resilience, informed by recent challenges and the need for adaptable, future proof infrastructure.
Aligning with EU and international best practice on sustainable tourism development and responsible destination management.
Developing a tourist accommodation dataset that will assist in the evaluation of policy outcomes flowing from A New Era for Irish Tourism and the Tourist Accommodation Strategy.
Your input will help shape a framework that meets the needs of visitors, businesses, and communities while safeguarding long term sustainability in the sector.
Current and future demand
Ireland’s tourist accommodation offering includes a broad mix of hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, self‑catering properties, hostels and outdoor accommodation such as pods and glamping. Capacity and availability vary widely across regions, with some destinations facing seasonal or peak‑time pressures while others have significant potential for growth.
The Tourist Accommodation Strategy will consider how supply can best evolve to meet future needs in a sustainable and balanced way – supporting year‑round demand, enabling growth in emerging destinations, ensuring adequate capacity where pressures exist, and aligning with Ireland’s environmental and climate commitments.
Regulatory context
Ireland’s tourist accommodation sector operates within an established regulatory framework led by Fáilte Ireland under the Tourist Traffic Acts 1939-2016, which sets out statutory registration requirements and quality standards for specific accommodation types. This framework is supported by the National Quality Assurance Framework (NQAF), through which both statutory and non‑statutory providers are assessed and quality-assured. The Tourist Accommodation Strategy will complement this existing framework and align with wider national policies supporting sustainable tourism.
About this consultation
The Department is seeking the views of the public, industry stakeholders, and all interested parties as your input to the consultation will help inform the direction, priorities, and actions of the final Tourist Accommodation Strategy.
This survey should take approximately 15 minutes to complete. You may respond to as many or as few questions as you wish and you are encouraged to comment only on the topics most relevant to you. The final question provides an opportunity to share any additional observations you believe should be considered.
How to participate
Views from stakeholders and interested parties are requested no later than 5pm on Friday, 29 May 2026 via the following link:
Responses received by the specified deadline will be analysed and will contribute to the development of the final strategy. A summary of submissions will be published as part of the consultation process.
If you experience any difficulty accessing or completing the survey, please contact: TourismAccommodation@enterprise.gov.ie
20- Communities Barriers To Opening Bank Accounts
Social Justice Ireland, in partner key partner of PPNs, has been made aware of the barriers that small community groups face when trying to open bank accounts so that they could apply for and receive small grants and funds. As Social Justice Ireland works closely with the PPNs and the Central Bank, they are well placed to ask groups directly for their experiences to see if this is something they can bring to the Bank's attention. They do need the data though.
The survey is here - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FVCFB9S
It's short and not too onerous.
21- Hearing Care Services
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill has launched a public consultation on hearing care services in Ireland. This consultation is a crucial element of the work of the National Hearing Care Plan Working Group, which is tasked with developing a holistic model of hearing care in Ireland. The consultation is examining:
The existing level of hearing care provision in Ireland.
Workforce planning.
The current education structures in place to ensure an adequate number of audiology graduates are available to enter the workforce.
The appropriate level of regulation of the audiology profession.
Improving referral pathways and the integration between acute and community care.
The effective linkage between public and private care to improve patient outcomes, including reductions in waiting times.
This public consultation will provide an opportunity for the public to contribute their views on their awareness of, access to, and experience of hearing care services in Ireland.
The consultation also gives service providers an opportunity to express their views on key areas of focus for the Working Group.
The views and opinions collected will be considered and used to inform the development of the National Hearing Care Plan.
The consultation will be open for four weeks – the closing date is Friday 15 May 2026.
You can access the public consultation here.
The World Health Organisation’s Report on Hearing published in March 2021 recommended that governments develop a comprehensive people-centred hearing care plan within their national health care plan. The report further recommends that Ministries of Health:
Include people-centred ear and hearing care in universal health coverage.
Strengthen health services to deliver integrated people-centred approach to ear and hearing care at all levels of care.
Undertake awareness campaigns that address attitudes towards, and stigma related to, ear diseases and hearing loss.
Determine targets, monitor national trends, and evaluate progress.
Promote high-quality public health research on ear and hearing care.
The National Hearing Care Plan Working Group was established in August 2024. It is jointly chaired by the HSE and the Department of Health. Membership of the Working Group is drawn from relevant stakeholders, including HSE clinicians and management, the Irish Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists, the Irish Academy of Audiology, and the Department of Social Protection.
The Hearing Care Plan Working Group has been tasked with developing a National Hearing Care Plan and is examining:
The existing level of hearing care provision in Ireland.
Capacity constraints and opportunities within the HSE.
Workforce planning, including improved recruitment and retention in the public system.
The current education structures in place to ensure an adequate number of audiology graduates are available to enter the workforce.
The appropriate level of regulation of the audiology profession.
Improving referral pathways and the integration between acute and community care.
The effective linkage between public and private care to improve patient outcomes, including reductions in waiting times.
22-Social enterprise Census
2026 Census of Social Enterprise
Is now open!
Minister Buttimer calls on every social enterprise to complete the survey
Don’t miss out on this opportunity for your social enterprise to be included and heard
Important opportunity for social enterprises to influence future policy decisions,
funding priorities, and support programme development
The Census is open until 28th June and can be accessed: HERE
Action 51 of Trading for Impact the National Social Enterprise policy includes a commitment to periodically hold a Census of Social Enterprise.
Growing, strengthening, and realising the impact of social enterprises within communities are key goals of the Government’s Social Enterprise Policy,
and the information collected during the Census is key to the continued targeted delivery of this policy, and how the sector will be supported into the future.
Minister for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD said:
“This Census will help us understand where social enterprises are growing and where they need additional support to ensure decisions
made about the sector are informed by the voices and experiences of those delivering real impact on the ground.
“For the first time, we will be able to conduct a comparative analysis between the data from 2023 and 2026, which will provide
a strong evidence base to Government, along with those stakeholders we work in partnership with, to target our work to support the sector.”
Following a competitive tendering process, that included a social clause, the Consortium of Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland and Amárach Research
were awarded the contract to deliver this project on behalf of the Department of rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
The Census can be accessed: HERE
Please provide only one response from each social enterprise
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
23- Cavan Pride March Is Happening!
Cavan's first pride march is happening this summer!
In the face of rising far-right sentiment across the globe, it’s more important than ever to stand together for human rights and queer liberation and they hope as many community groups and clubs as possible will join them in celebrating pride.
They would like to invite groups to march as a block- bring banners or flags to represent your group and be as showy and noisy as you like! LGBTQ+ people and allies alike are welcome to march and send a message of love, justice and solidarity to the people of Cavan. If you would to join the march as a group please contact them via email or on social media. Anyone who wants to join as an individual can just show up!
They are also seeking a few speakers for the end of the march. If you have a relevant person from your group interested in speaking about queer issues, please get in touch with some information to apply, as spots are limited.
The march will start just after 1pm on Saturday June 13th at Cavan Courthouse and will take about 40 minutes to complete. Please assemble at the courthouse from 12.30.
24- Hidden Life on Fartrin Bog
25- Pod Youth Theatre Summer Camp
26- Hospice Sunflower Day Call for Volunteers
I am a volunteer on the fund raising committee of the St Christoper’s hospice Cavan Monaghan. They are building a 16 bedroom hospice for the people of Cavan/ Monaghan and should be open in 2027 for patients . Sunflower day is a National collection for the Hospice country wide on the 12th and 13th of June 2026. As the new St Christopher’s Hospice covers Cavan and Monaghan I would like to involve the people of Monaghan in this Sunflower day . This is advertised nationally by Miriam O Callaghan and launched by her last week and is on the national news papers . We will advertise this locally as well . I have approval to collect from Monaghan shopping centre, and have obtained garda permit for Monaghan town , Castleblaney , Clones and Carrickmacross for the 12th of June. I would really appreciate volunteers for Clones / Monaghan to complete the sunflower day . I have obtained the sunflower badges ready to go on the day also. I would really appreciate if you could Hugh enlist volunteers that could cover the Sunflower day in Clones. Please call me any time or if you need any thing further. Many thanks Regards Seamus Kennedy Hospice volunteer. 0858785252
27- Killeshandra Family Resource Centre Seek Board Members
28- Discuss Rural Isolation in Swanlinbar
A Chara,
On Friday last, Minister Buttimer launched a new national awareness campaign to highlight how Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) connect public bodies and communities across Ireland. The programme commenced on Friday, May 1st and will run for a three-week period across radio, podcasts, print and online media.
The overall objective of the campaign is to raise public awareness on the role and function of the LCDCs and how they contribute to the development of local communities, through actions contained in each of their Local Economic and Community Plans (LECPs).
A new dedicated web page www.gov.ie/lcdc is a central hub for information on each of the 33 Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) and contains information and a series of videos on the following:
Background of LCDCs
Watch LCDCs in Action
Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP)
Additional Staff Resource (ASR)
Find your LCDC
Training for Staff
In the first instance, the new web page will be of major benefit to LCDC members and stakeholders. The “Training for Staff” tile provides workbooks and videos on six modules, some of which include the roles and responsibilities of LCDCs, use of Plain English and Digital and Visual Communication. These video assets will prove beneficial in terms of succession management and induction for new LCDC members and staff. The videos are also available on the Department’s YouTube channel.
This resource will also benefit community and voluntary organisations, PPNs, together with local and community development organisations. It is hoped that these groups will utilise these assets to build a stronger on-line presence and gain better traction for their community activities, i.e.. fundraisers, local events, and media posts.
Le meas,
An Roinn Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta
Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht
Oifigí Rialtais, Béal an Átha, Co. Mhaigh Eo. F26 E8N6
Government Buildings, Ballina, Co. Mayo. F26 E8N6
A Chara,
Dé hAoine seo caite, sheol an tAire Buttimer feachtas feasachta náisiúnta nua chun aird a tharraingt ar an gcaoi a gceanglaíonn Coistí Forbartha Pobail Áitiúla comhlachtaí poiblí agus pobail ar fud na hÉireann. Thosaigh an clár Dé hAoine, an 1 Bealtaine agus beidh sé ar siúl ar feadh tréimhse trí seachtaine ar an raidió, ar phodchraoltaí, sna meáin chlóite agus ar líne.
Is é cuspóir foriomlán an fheachtais feasacht an phobail a mhúscailt maidir le ról agus feidhm na gCoistí Forbartha Pobail Áitiúla agus leis an gcaoi a gcuireann siad le forbairt phobail áitiúla, trí ghníomhartha atá i ngach ceann de na Pleananna Eacnamaíocha agus Pobail Áitiúla.
Is mol lárnach é leathanach gréasáin nua tiomnaithe www.gov.ie/lcdc le haghaidh faisnéise faoi gach ceann de na 33 Choiste Forbartha Pobail Áitiúil agus tá faisnéis agus sraith físeán ann faoi na nithe seo a leanas:
Cúlra na gCoistí Forbartha Pobail Áitiúla
Féach ar Choistí Forbartha Pobail Áitiúla i mbun Gnímh
Plean Eacnamaíoch agus Pobail Áitiúil
Acmhainn Bhreise Foirne
Aimsigh do Choiste Forbartha Pobail Áitiúil
Oiliúint Foirne
Beidh an leathanach gréasáin nua ina bhuntáiste mór do bhaill agus do pháirtithe leasmhara na gCoistí Forbartha Pobail Áitiúla. Faoi tháb “Oiliúint Foirne”, cuirtear leabhair oibre agus físeáin ar fáil faoi shé mhodúl, agus áirítear i gcuid acu róil agus freagrachtaí na gCoistí Forbartha Pobail Áitiúla, úsáid Bhéarla Simplí agus Cumarsáid Dhigiteach agus Amhairc. Beidh na hacmhainní físe seo tairbheach maidir le bainistíocht chomharbais agus ionduchtaithe do bhaill agus d’fhoireann nua na gCoistí Forbartha Pobail Áitiúla. Tá na físeáin ar fáil freisin ar chainéal YouTube na Roinne.
Beidh an acmhainn seo tairbheach d’eagraíochtaí pobail agus deonacha, líonraí rannpháirtíochta poiblí, mar aon le heagraíochtaí forbartha áitiúla agus pobail. Táthar ag súil go n-úsáidfidh na grúpaí seo na hacmhainní seo chun láithreacht níos láidre ar líne a thógáil agus tionchar níos fearr a imirt dá ngníomhaíochtaí pobail, i.e. tiomsaitheoirí airgid, imeachtaí áitiúla, agus poist sna meáin.
Le meas,
An Roinn Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta
Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht
Oifigí Rialtais, Béal an Átha, Co. Mhaigh Eo. F26 E8N6
Government Buildings, Ballina, Co. Mayo. F26 E8N6
29- New Cat & Dog Laws
New Dog and Cat Laws Incoming:
The breeding between parents and their offspring, grandparents and grandchildren, as well as between siblings and half-siblings will be forbidden.
The breeding of dogs or cats to give them exaggerated or excessive traits, that lead to significant health risks, will also be banned.
The measures include a ban on the mutilation of dogs and cats for shows, exhibitions, or competitions.
Tying a dog or a cat to an object (tethering), except when necessary for medical treatment, and the use of prong and choke collars without built-in safety mechanisms, will also be prohibited.
30- Age Friendly Nominations Open
Age Friendly Ireland is delighted to confirm that the National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards 2026 are now live for submissions—and we’d love you to put your project forward.
Closing date: Thursday, 29 May 2026
Each year a local authority hosts the awards event, and we’re thrilled to share that Limerick City and County Council will host this year’s ceremony in The Limerick Strand Hotel on Thursday, 8 October 2026.
This year there are ten award categories, aligned to the 8 World Health Organisation (WHO) Age Friendly Themes.
These awards celebrate the people, partnerships and programmes making Ireland more Age Friendly. If your initiative is improving everyday life for older people—big or small, local or national—we strongly encourage you to apply.
Who can apply? Organisations, individuals/members of the public, agencies and communities – Everyone!
What we’re looking for:
Innovative projects with a real, positive impact on the lives of older people
Initiatives that can be showcased and replicated by others
Entries from local and national level
Judging visits: Shortlisted projects will be visited by the judging panel over a three-week period, from 20 July to 7 August (inclusive). Please only submit if you (or your project lead) will be available to facilitate a visit during this time.
Submission tips: Please submit your project under one category only. Where possible, include a short video clip that helps bring your initiative to life.
Ready to apply? Submit your application here: https://agefriendlyireland.ie/national-age-friendly-recognition-and-achievement-awards/current-year/
If you’re considering applying but aren’t sure which category fits best, please get in touch—we’re happy to help.
We can’t wait to see the fantastic work happening across the country—please do submit your project and help us celebrate what’s possible when communities and services are designed to support us all to age well.
For more information please visit our website:
31- Congo Summer Community Event
email: congoleseincavan@gmail.com or phone 0874590763
32- The Urban Rural Divide In Ireland
The Urban-Rural Divide: What CSO Data Reveals About Life in Ireland
Ireland's population is increasingly urban, yet a significant share of residents remain rooted in rural communities. The CSO's Urban and Rural Life in Ireland 2025 report offers a detailed snapshot of how these two Irelands differ—and where they converge.
Full details at: The Urban-Rural Divide: What CSO Data Reveals About Life in Ireland | Social Justice Ireland
33- Biodiversity at Drummany
34- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th
35- Afro-Ceili
You're Invited to Afro-Ceili Connect!
Join us for a vibrant celebration of African culture, music, dance, and community at Afro-Ceili Connect! Whether you're a dancer, music lover, or simply looking to experience the richness of African traditions, this event is for you.
Date: [5th & 6th June]
Time: [11-2PM]
Location:
Come ready to move, connect, and celebrate with us!
For more details and to RSVP, visit: https://afro-ceili-connect.base44.app
36- Campa Samhraidh 2026
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