Cavan Community ENews 7.8.26
- 3 days ago
- 26 min read
Updated: 2 days 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 (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
NOTICE: 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. An email has been sent to ALL relevant nominating group contacts but should you require the info, we can send the relevant data. Please contact cavanppn@gmail.com for more
CONTENTS (Shaded are new items this week, but all are still relevant/in date)
FUNDING
1. FUNDING: 3 Conservation Grants Open
2. FUNDING: Movement for Good Awards
3. FUNDING: Perigus Energy Community Benefit Fund
4. FUNDING: Wildlife Acoustics Grant 5. FUNDING: Holohil Bat & Raptor Research Grant
6. FUNDING: Huawei Solar Sports Fund 7. FUNDING: ESF+ Fund
8. FUNDING: Energy for Generations Grant
9. FUNDING: Eradication of Poverty Fund
10. FUNDING: European Heritage Awards
TRAINING 11. TRAINING: Free Air Fryer Community Workshop 12. TRAINING: CavanPPN Training to Years End 13. TRAINING: Cross Border Collaboration Training 14. TRAINING: HUGG Support After Suicide Creative Workshops 15. TRAINING: PPN Stakeholder Training
SURVEYS/CONSULTS 16.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: National Food Waist Consultation
17.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: National Folic Acid Into Flour Consultation 18. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Rising Insurance for Communities Survey 19.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Town & Village Speed Limits Review in County Cavan 20.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: LGBTQ+ Study on Rising Hate 21.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: New Euro Banknotes, Have Your Say 22.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Green Finance for Irish Social Enterprises 23.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Living As A 14-24 Year Old in Cavan 24.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: The Disability Act Consultation 25. SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Sunbed Public Consultation Findings
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS 26. Ballinagh Folly Fest 27. Fields of Change in Drumlane 28. Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt 29- Cavan Kayakrun 30- Community Based Counselling
31- NESC National Conference
32 -Cavan Supports for Your Mental Wellbeing
33 - DFI Newsletter
34- The Future is Creative Call for Presentations
35- Swanlinbar Tractor Run
36- National Plan in Case of Nuclear/Radiological Emergency
37- How Many Earths Our Lifestyles Cost
38 Cuilcagh Camino Coming Up!
39- Mullagh Fair
40- National Hosepipe Ban in Effect
41- Council Issues Algae Bloom Warning!
42 Virginia SHow
43. Ballyjamesduff Youth Art Exhibition
44. Gulliver Travels Youth Arts Event
45. Meet the Makers Arts Event
46. GreenSod Nature Restoration Day in Arderry Cavan
47 The Sleeping Giant Seeks Expressions of Interest
FUNDING
1 Three Conservation Grants Open
Three key built heritage schemes are open: the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS), Historic Structures Fund (HSF) and Historic Thatch Buildings (HTB) for 2027.
2. Movement for Good Awards
Benefact Group - Movement for Good Awards
The Benefact Group Movement for Good is your chance to help us give away our profits to good causes.
Deadline: 5 Oct
3. Perigus Energy Community Benefit Fund
Perigus Energy Community Benefit Fund
Perigus Energy is dedicated to being an active partner in the communities where they develop, build, operate and own green energy assets. They have set up Community Benefit Funds in accordance with the Wind Energy Ireland (WEI) Best Practice Principles in Community Engagement & Community Commitment guidelines.
Perigus Energy operate renewable energy projects throughout Ireland. To check if any of their wind or solar farms are near you, visit the link below.
Through the Community Benefit Fund they offer support to organisations that engage in:
Community Services
Energy efficiency and sustainability
Educational Programmes
Medical and health assistance
The Community Benefit Funds are available for applications all year round. Their internal committee meet quarterly to evaluate applications as they are received.
Deadline: Open all year round
More info: https://www.perigusenergy.ie/community/
4. Wildlife Acoustics Grants
Wildlife Acoustics Grant - 15th Aug
Wildlife Acoustics is proud to offer a quarterly grant program that supports the advancement of wildlife research, habitat monitoring, and environmental conservation. Scientists may apply for a product grant to advance the study of bats, birds, amphibians, and other terrestrial wildlife—or a travel grant to help them attend a conference with their peers.
Deadline: 15th August 2026
5. Holohil Bat & Raptor Research Grant
For more than 40 years Holohil has supported endangered species research and educational work for a variety of agencies and researchers. During that time, they have donated transmitters predominately for bat and raptor research. While they still have a strong commitment to these groups of animals, they wish to extend their support to other species that have not previously been included. To this end, they are extending their support to research projects that are of high value for their species, have a sound research design, and have a positive conservation intention.
Deadline: 15th Oct 2026
More info: https://www.holohil.com/grant-program/
6. Huawei Solar Sports Scheme
Huawei Solar Sports Scheme
Huawei Technologies (Ireland) Co., Ltd. (“Huawei”) is pleased to announce the Huawei Solar Sports Scheme (the “Scheme”), a grant programme designed to support and invest in grassroots sports clubs across the community.
The scheme will award five (5) cash grants of €10,000 each, totalling €50,000 in available funding, to eligible sports clubs that demonstrate a clear need for financial support and the capacity to deliver meaningful benefit to their members and the wider community.
Deadline: 31 Aug
7. ESF+ Fund
European Social Fund Plus (ESF+)
The European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) aims to support member states and regions to improve employment and education opportunities, to enhance social inclusion and to tackle poverty.
Deadline: 2 Sept
8- Energy for Generations Fund
Energy for Generations Fund to Open Soon
The Energy for Generations Fund has announced the opening date for its second funding round of 2026, with applications set to open on Monday 10 August and close at 5pm on Monday 24 August.
The fund distributes €1 million annually through two funding rounds, supporting charities across Ireland that are working to tackle social exclusion. Funding is focused on initiatives that improve access to education, increase employment opportunities, and address homelessness.
close at 5pm on Monday 24 August.
9- Eradication of Poverty Funding
Funding is open to eligible organisations working with people experiencing poverty at a national or local level. Approved applications include projects involving children, people with disabilities, women’s groups and minority groups.
A broad range of activities will be considered for funding, including artistic and cultural events, exhibitions, public talks and community workshops.
Deadline: 14 Aug
10- European Heritage Awards
Are you leading or part of a heritage project that deserves recognition at the highest European level? Whether you are an individual, a team of experts, or an organisation, this is your chance to share your achievements and compete for Europe’s most prestigious heritage awards!
The European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards celebrate excellence in the protection, conservation, research, education, and promotion of cultural heritage across Europe, covering a wide range of categories and project types – from tangible to intangible heritage.
Applications can be submitted in one of the following five categories:
1) Conservation & Adaptive Reuse;
2) Research;
3) Education, Training & Skills;
4) Citizens’ Engagement & Awareness-raising; and
5) Heritage Champions.
Deadline: 7th September 2026
More info: https://www.europeanheritageawards.eu/apply/
TRAINING
11- Free Air Fryer Workshop
FREE air fryer workshop for any students in education or soon to be students interested in learning how to cook healthy meals using an air fryer, a fun, interactive morning. Wednesday 19th August from 11am-1pm in bridge street centre Cavan town. Age range from 17years-21 years, limited spaces available. Please register your interest with Charlotte on cwilson@ccld.ie or 087 199 0832, spaces are limited. All will be provided just come along and learn something
new.
12- CavanPPN Training 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!
13- Cross Border Collaboration Training This course aims to provide you with the information and tools that you need at each stage of developing your cross-border project to ensure that it is both effective and creates a sustainable partnership.
Getting Started with Cross Border Cooperation will enable you to:
Use evidence to effectively identify and define challenges in your community that your organisation can solve as part of fulfilling its core mission.
Build sustainable partnerships with organisations on the other side of the border.
Design and implement projects that benefit multiple jurisdictions in a way that each organisation alone could not achieve.
Effectively demonstrate the value and impact of your project.
The course is free of charge and is open to any and all organisations on the island of Ireland who are considering engaging in a cross-border project for the first time.
There are two course options: a guided course with Anthony Soares, Director of the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation; and a self-guided course for independent learning.
Full details: 'Getting Started with Cross Border Collaboration' courses - The Centre for Cross Border Cooperation
14- Hugg Support After Suicide Creative Workshop HUGG - Support After Suicide - Invitation to Free Creative Workshop, 22nd August, Cavan
If you are over 18 years old, and bereaved by suicide, you are invited to attend a FREE creative workshop on Saturday 22nd August, 10.45am to 1pm, Hotel Kilmore, Dublin Rd, Killygarry, Cavan, H12 F6Y7.
We are creating a HUGG suicide memorial quilt, made up of hand-crafted individual fabric squares; each unique square honouring our loved ones who died by suicide. The finished piece will communicate to others that suicide grief doesn’t have to be faced alone.
This workshop is suitable for men and women. No previous crafting or sewing experience needed! Being in the company of others who have a shared experience of suicide loss can provide comfort, support, and hope, while needle crafting can provide inspiration. This activity may help you to explore and discover meaningful memories of your loved one. Fibre artist & expert, Marie Hopkins, will provide a demonstration on needle felting and how to get started, explaining how to use the tools, blend colours, and use the needle. You will be provided with all you need to explore your inner creativity and intuition, and enough time to create a hand-crafted fabric square. See attached participants' description of the workshop and answers to frequently asked questions.
Spaces in this workshop are limited. To avoid disappointment, you are advised to register early.
Register here: HUGG Creative Workshop Registration Form OR call HUGG to register over the phone: 01 513 4048 OR email info@HUGG.ie
Complimentary refreshments will be served on arrival, and sandwiches at the end of the workshop.
15- PPN Stakeholder Training
PPN Stakeholder Training
The online only self-paced training videos programme for PPN stakeholders has been developed with SJI. Registrations for the online only training is now open. Social Justice Ireland is providing this training on behalf of the Department.
The online only training covers the following:
- An Introduction to the PPNs (2 Modules)
- Local Government Budgets
- PPNs and Local Government
- Effective Participation in Consultations
- Effective Facilitation
- Strategic Planning
- Measuring Outcomes and Impacts
This is online only and is intended for self-directed learning at the learner’s own pace. Social Justice Ireland will provide some support via the webform on each Module page. There are no scheduled classes as part of this training.
This training is available to the following PPN Stakeholders:
- PPN Workers
- PPN Secretariat Members
- PPN Representatives
- PPN Member Groups
- Local Authority Staff
- Elected Councillors
To register, please complete the Registration Form at the following link: : Register for Training | Social Justice Ireland
SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS
16- National Food Waste Consultation
Minister Alan Dillon launches public consultation on Ireland’s next National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap (2026–2028).
The Department is inviting submissions from the public and stakeholders to help shape the actions that will reduce food waste, cut emissions and support Ireland’s transition to a more circular economy
Read more & #HaveYourSay at https://bit.ly/4y8Z7tb
17- Folic Acid in Wholemeal Flour Consult
Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD has today launched an online public consultation seeking the views and opinions of the public and of industry on the mandatory fortification of non wholemeal flour with folic acid, to help reduce the incidence of neural tube defects in Ireland. Neural tube defects include conditions such as spina bifida, anencephaly, encephalocele and iniencephaly.
Neural tube defects can occur when the spinal cord does not develop properly during early pregnancy. Ireland has a higher-than-average rate of occurrence of neural tube defects compared with the rest of Europe. Research has shown that sufficient folic acid intake may help reduce the incidence of neural tube defects.
This public consultation provides an important opportunity for members of the public, to provide their views on the proposed fortification of non wholemeal flour with folic acid to help reduce the incidence of neural tube defects in Ireland. We are also interested in the views of ‘food industry’ and related business operators to know how flour fortification with folic acid may affect their activities, along with input on any measures that could help businesses adapt to the new fortification requirements.
Submissions received through this process will be considered and may be used to inform future policy and legislation regarding mandatory fortification of flour with folic acid.
18- Rising Insurance Premiums for Communities Survey
Rising insurance premiums are a major challenge for many charities and community groups. The Alliance for Insurance Reform needs your help by completing its annual insurance survey.
It takes less than one minute, and the information gathered is shared with government ministers, national media and others to highlight the ongoing challenges that insurance costs pose to community and voluntary groups across the country.
The questions are straightforward and general, with no specific financial information required.
The Alliance has secured major reforms of the insurance and personal injury claims landscape in Ireland, with reductions in the volume of claims and the size of awards. Unfortunately, this has yet to translate into meaningful reductions in premiums for many organisations. This survey helps show what is happening on the ground and supports the case for further action.
Survey link:
19- Town/Village Speed Limits Review for Co Cavan
Cavan County Council is undertaking a review of speed limits in urban areas throughout County Cavan.
The review relates to all towns, villages and settlements within the county that currently have an existing speed limit of 60 km/h or less. Full details here: Urban Speed Limit Review 2026 | Cavan County Council Consultation Portal
Closes 14th Aug
20- LGBTQ+ Study on Rising Hate
Hope and Courage Collective is encouraging LGBTQ+ people across Ireland to take part in CROSSROADS: Understanding Rising Hate and the Changes Needed to Support LGBTQ+ Communities in Ireland.
CROSSROADS is the first national study focused specifically on the impact of far-right hostility, organised anti-LGBTQ+ activity, misinformation and rising hate on LGBTQ+ communities in Ireland. Crucially, it also asks LGBTQ+ people what responses and changes they want to see.
The study is exploring experiences of:
Safety and belonging
Discrimination and hostility
Far-right and organised anti-LGBTQ+ activity
Online hate and misinformation
Housing, workplaces and services
Community support
Public life in Ireland
The changes needed from government, public bodies and civil society
The researchers are especially encouraging participation from trans and gender-diverse people, LGBTQ+ migrants, people from minority ethnic communities, people living outside the larger cities and others whose experiences may be underrepresented.
The study is led by the Sexual Health Centre, in partnership with NB Social Justice Studio, and funded by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. Its circulation has been supported by organisations across the LGBTQ+ and wider civil society sectors.
Who can take part?
LGBTQ+ adults aged 18 or over
Living in the Republic of Ireland
Anonymous and confidential
Approximately 15 minutes to complete
Participants may skip any question or leave the survey at any time. Please consider taking part and sharing the survey with LGBTQ+ people in your networks.
21- Have Your Say On New Euro Banknote Designs
Our euro banknotes are getting a new look! Designers from all over Europe have reimagined how they may look like, and one of their proposals is to become the next design of the euro banknotes.
Want to have a say on which designs are your favourites? Future euro banknote design proposals
22- Green Finance for Irish Social Enterprises
Participate in Survey for Green Finance for Irish Social Enterprises
The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht is seeking your support by completing this 15-minute survey on Green Finance for Irish Social Enterprises.
This is the first comprehensive research examining how all Irish social enterprises finance environmental and climate activities. Whether you're scaling green initiatives or prioritising other social missions, your perspective matters.
For the first time, evidence will be gathered on what stops social enterprises from accessing green finance, which barriers are fixable vs structural, and which policies would help you. This evidence aims to inform future government funding mechanisms over the next 5-10 years.
What's It Like Being 14-24 Years Old In Cavan
24- Disability Act Consult
The purpose of this consultation process is to inform the review of the Disability Act in its entirety.
Recent reforms have focused on Part 2 of the Disability Act because of the urgent need to make the Assessment of Need (AON) process more effective and efficient for children and families. Further information on these targeted reforms can be found here. The review of the Disability Act in its entirety will involve a detailed consideration of Part 2 and other reforms that may be needed to advance the implementation of the UNCRPD.
The review will also include examination of the Programme for Government commitment to place an autism strategy on a legislative footing.
Full details at: Public Consultation to inform the Review of the Disability Act 2005
25- Sunbed Public Consult Findings
Minister Murnane O’Connor publishes Sunbeds Public Consultation Report
The Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD, has today published the Sunbeds Public Consultation Report. The Report sets out the views received from members of the public, health workers, industry, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other stakeholders on a proposed ban on commercial sunbed use.
The public consultation was launched on 25 July 2025 and ran until 3 October 2025. It was undertaken as part of the Government’s work to progress the Programme for Government commitment to explore ways to ban commercial sunbed use in Ireland.
The public consultation received 9,320 survey responses from residents in Ireland. The majority of respondents self-assigned as members of the public, while responses were also received from health workers, industry representatives, NGOs and others. Eleven written submissions were also received from organisations through the dedicated consultation mailbox.
The Report provides important insights into the views and opinions on a proposed ban on commercial sunbed use.
Speaking today, Minister Murnane O’Connor said:
“I welcome the publication of the Sunbeds Public Consultation Report, which provides valuable insight into the views of people and organisations on commercial sunbed use in Ireland. The consultation shows that this is a complex policy issue, with strongly held views across the public, health, industry and stakeholder groups.
The Government is committed to progressing this work in an evidence-based and proportionate way. This Report will inform the next phase of policy development, alongside legal, economic, EU and public health considerations.”
The Sunbeds Public Consultation identified divergence in attitudes towards a potential ban on commercial sunbed use. Many respondents did not support a ban on commercial sunbed use, citing personal choice, confidence, appearance, mental health, perceived benefits for skin conditions, and concerns that a ban could lead to sunbed use into unregulated settings.
At the same time, the Sunbeds Public Consultation identified support from public health, NGOs, patient advocacy and environmental health stakeholders for enhanced public health measures, including a ban, on the basis of cancer prevention, child protection and reducing exposure to a known carcinogen.
Minister Murnane O’Connor added:
“I want to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the Sunbeds Public Consultation, including members of the public, health professionals, advocacy organisations, community representatives and industry stakeholders. Their contributions will help ensure that future policy decisions are transparent and informed.
Policy options will be brought to Government for decision following completion of further policy analysis and EU engagement.”
The Public Consultation on a potential ban on commercial sunbed use in Ireland was launched on 25 July 2025 and closed on 3 October 2025.
The consultation received 9,320 survey responses from residents in Ireland and 11 written submissions from organisations.
The Programme for Government includes a commitment to explore ways to ban commercial sunbed use in Ireland.
The Department’s next phase of work includes legal, economic, EU and public health considerations before policy options are brought to Government for decision.
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS
26- Ballinagh Folly Fest
BALLINAGH FOLLY FEST IS BACK! For one day only! Full details still to be announced, so make sure you keep an eye on our socials Instagram: @ballinaghcommunityenterprise
27- Fields of Change At Drumlane
Drumlane History & Heritage Group
Saturday15th August - 2pm - 4pm
Drumlane abbey Car Park
A free tour of the historic Drumlane abbey church and graveyard, followed by an optional short walk along part of an ancient roadway exploring the evolving landscapes with views over the lakes, crannogs and an ancient ringfort.
Event Type
Suitable for walkers and families, strong footwear is recommended. Free Car parking available.
Sunday 23rd August - 2pm – 4.30 pm
Milltown Community Resource Centre Car Park H14 K224
Celebrate and promote the rich history and heritage of Milltown Village. A free guided walk and talk highlighting local places, people and stories.
Following this event refreshment will be served in the Milltown Community Resource Centre, providing an opportunity for attendees to share memories, stories and local knowledge in a welcoming community setting.
Further Information
Suzanne Gunn: 087 6467619
Facebook: Drumlane History & Heritage Group
Email: gunnsusie@ gmail.com
Everyone Welcome
28- Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt in Hotel Kilmore
Say Their Name: Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt – Creative Workshop
HUGG is the national suicide bereavement support charity, providing free peer support to adults who have been bereaved by suicide across Ireland. Through support groups, a telephone support line, grief cafés, walks and community events, HUGG provides safe, compassionate spaces where people bereaved by suicide can connect with others who truly understand their experience.
As part of this mission, HUGG is inviting adults bereaved by suicide to attend its "Say Their Name" Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt – Creative Workshop on Saturday, 22 August, from 10.45am–1.00pm at Hotel Kilmore, Cavan.
This free workshop offers a safe and compassionate space to remember and honour a loved one who has died by suicide. Participants will create an individual fabric square in their loved one's memory, which will become part of HUGG's Suicide Loss Memorial Quilt—a tangible symbol of remembrance, connection and hope.
No sewing or crafting experience is needed, and both men and women are welcome. The workshop offers a gentle opportunity to reflect, express memories through creativity, and connect with others who understand the impact of suicide bereavement.
Places are limited, so advance registration is essential.
To register or find out more, visit our website HUGG.ie, email info@HUGG.ie or call 01 513 4048.
29- Cavan Kayakrun
30- Community Based Counselling
Minister for Mental Health, Mary Butler TD, has announced a major expansion of community-based counselling and talk therapy supports, backed by a total investment of €3 million in Budget 2026.
The investment builds on the success of the Men’s Free Counselling initiative launched in September 2025, through which more than 5,200 men have already accessed free counselling and support services.
The new funding will further strengthen access to early intervention mental health supports in communities across Ireland and will support a new partnership between the Health Service Executive (HSE) and Community Therapy Ireland (CTI), a national association of counselling and psychotherapy providers.
Community Therapy Ireland member organisations will deliver 9,000 counselling sessions as a result of the partnership.
Minister Butler secured €1 million in recurring funding in Budget 2026 to expand community-based counselling and psychotherapy services through a new partnership between the HSE and Community Therapy Ireland.
Established in 2008, Community Therapy Ireland represents 29 counselling and psychotherapy organisations delivering professional, affordable and accessible services in communities throughout the country. The organisation has also developed a Clinical Governance Badge of Excellence, a quality assurance framework comprising 82 indicators designed to promote safe, rights-based, recovery-focused, trauma-informed and person-centred services.
The new investment will support increased counselling capacity in communities nationwide through the delivery of 9,000 counselling sessions, while also promoting consistency and high standards across funded services. The funding will be targeted to new clients, in particular young people and LGBTQ+ people.
HSE Partnership with Community Therapy Ireland
Established in 2008, Community Therapy Ireland represents 29 counselling and psychotherapy organisations delivering professional, affordable and accessible services in communities throughout the country.
The organisation has also developed a Clinical Governance Badge of Excellence, a quality assurance framework comprising 82 indicators designed to promote safe, rights-based, recovery-focused, trauma-informed and person-centred services.
An additional 9,000 counselling and psychotherapy sessions will be delivered between 1 August and 31 December 2026 in a new partnership between the HSE and Community Therapy Ireland.
Funding of €1 million (recurring annually) is being allocated to 29 different member organisations of Community Therapy Ireland, who have either achieved or are working towards achieving, the CTI Clinical Badge of Excellence.
The funding will be targeted to new clients, in particular young people and LGBTQ+ people.
For more information visit communitytherapyireland.ie
Breakdown of Community Therapy Ireland partnership funding of €1 million for 2026
Organisation | Allocation 2026 |
Candle Community Trust | 16,849 |
Northside Counselling Service | 40,117 |
Genesis Psychotherapy & Family Therapy Service | 13,640 |
Beacon Of Light Counselling Centre | 26,257 |
The Village Counselling Service | 24,070 |
St Andrews Family Resource Centre | 28,082 |
An Cosan | 16,047 |
Fatima Family Support and Therapy Service | 8,023 |
TARGET Counselling | 27,280 |
Baldoyle Family Resource Service CLG | 36,106 |
Fingal Counselling Service | 8,023 |
Cork Counselling Service | 40,117 |
F.A.C.T Ballincollig FRC | 39,010 |
Pro-Consult - Institute Of Professional Counselling | 40,117 |
Kerry Adolescent Counselling Service | 32,094 |
Southwest Counselling Centre | 32,094 |
Dún Dealgan Family Resource Centre & Community Therapy | 40,117 |
The Family Centre | 26,189 |
Knock Counselling Centre | 20,498 |
Boyle Counselling & Psychotherapy at Boyle Family Resource Centre | 16,733 |
Accessible Counselling Tullamore | 80,000 |
Vita House Family Centre | 25,527 |
St Brigid's Family And Community Centre | 20,460 |
Teach Oscail Family Resource Centre | 31,031 |
The Curragh Family Resource Centre | 40,117 |
Knockanrawley Resource Centre | 22,867 |
Croom Family Resource Centre | 15,345 |
Limerick Social Service Council (LSSC) Counselling Service | 40,117 |
Limerick Youth Service | 24,070 |
Men’s Free Counselling initiative
The Men’s Free Counselling initiative provides a range of free supports, including online and face-to-face counselling, seven-day-a-week telephone support through Connect Counselling, enhanced access to Counselling in Primary Care through the HSE’s National Counselling Service, and specialist supports for members of the Traveller community and Defence Forces veterans through Exchange House and Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann (O.N.E.).
Men can access the supports by speaking to their GP or visiting yourmentalhealth.ie/men
A total of €4 million has been allocated across Budgets 2025 and 2026 (€2 million recurring annually) for the dedicated Men’s Mental Health initiative to deliver approximately 30,000 counselling sessions
Approx. 8,000 sessions were delivered between the launch on 1 September 2025 and 31 December 2025.
A further 10,000 sessions were delivered between 1 January 2026 and 31 May 2026, a further 12,000 sessions are expected to be delivered by the end of 2026.
Breakdown of allocation of Men’s Free Counselling €2 million funding for 2026
Organisation / Initiative | Allocation 2026 |
Counselling in Primary Care | €1,000,000 |
My Mind - accessible counselling | €350,000 |
FRC National Forum – Men Connect Pilot Programme · Teach na Daoine FRC, Monaghan · Tubbercurry FRC, Sligo · St Brigid's Family And Community Centre, Waterford Each of the three pilot sites will receive €40,000 in 2026 (half-year) and €80,000 in a full year. | €138,000 |
Wellbeing for Men – online programme | €200,000 |
Connect Counselling | €75,000 |
Exchange House | €100,000 |
Beacon of Light – ‘Breakthrough’ Sports Programme | €27,000 |
ONE – Veterans MH Support Service | €25,000 |
31- NESC National Conference
Date & time: Tuesday, 24th November 2026 | 8.30am – 4.45pm
Venue: Printworks, Dublin Castle
Hosted by: National Economic and Social Council (NESC) & European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) At the end of May, we were pleased to send you a Save the Date for the NESC & EESC Conference, Building and Protecting Social Cohesion: A National, European and International Perspective, taking place in Dublin Castle on 24 November.
We are now inviting expressions of interest from those who would like to attend. The link below will take you to our Eventbrite page, where you can complete Stage One of the attendance process and confirm your interest in attending the conference.
Please note that attendance at this event involves a two-stage attendance process, outlined below.
Stage One – Expression of Interest
Click the 'Reserve a Spot' button on this Eventbrite page to confirm that you would like to attend the conference by providing your details.
Stage Two – Official EU Presidency Registration
As this event forms part of the official programme of the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, all participants must complete a second stage of registration through the official EU Presidency registration platform. We will use the details you provide during Stage One to send you your personal registration link early in September.
You must complete this second stage to obtain the security accreditation required to access Dublin Castle. Admission will not be possible on the day without having completed Stage Two in advance.
An outline of the conference programme is available on the Eventbrite page. Confirmed speaker details will be announced in the coming weeks.
If you are unable to attend and would like to nominate an alternative attendee, please forward them this email so that they can complete Stage One and express their interest in attending.
32- Cavan Supports for Mental Wellbeing
I am getting in touch to seek your support with sharing information across your Community Networks (both physical and online) in Cavan and Monaghan on a new leaflet outlining mental health and wellbeing supports available locally, nationally, in person and online.
I am attaching a link below to information on our Cavan Monaghan Connects website about this new leaflet. Copies of this leaflet (pdf attached) can be posted out if this would be helpful - please contact me on the details below and I will arrange this.
The leaflet includes information for:
Adults aged 18 and over – key services available in Cavan and Monaghan for adults who may be at risk of self-harm or suicide include:
Pieta Suicide and Self-Harm Crisis Counselling & Suicide Bereavement Counselling Service, HSE funded service with local Therapists available across a number of HSE/Tusla locations inn Cavan and Monaghan, Tel 0818 111 126 to make an appointment.
HSE Suicide Crisis Assessment Nurse (SCAN) Service accessed via GP referral in both Cavan and Monaghan (18+ yrs).
Children and young people – key services that we would signpost people to locally depending on the level of need include:
· Youthrive - HSE Cavan Monaghan Early Intervention Youth Mental Health Service, 12 - 25 yrs. Tel: 047 74655. Email: youthrive@hse.ie
· ISPCC Childline Therapeutic Support Service Cavan/Monaghan (0-18yrs). Email: monaghan@ispcc.ie
· Pieta Suicide and Self-Harm Crisis Counselling (12+ yrs) Service. Tel: 0818 111 126. www.pieta.ie
People who have been bereaved by suicide – the key local services that we signpost people to are:
Pieta Suicide Bereavement Liaison Officer (Cavan Monaghan), Tel: 0818 111 126 or email: sblo.referrals@pieta.ie
Pieta Suicide Bereavement Counselling (6+ yrs) Service, Tel: 0818 111 126
HUGG Suicide Bereavement Peer Support Groups, Tel: 01 513 4048 or email: support@hugg.ie
Online Supports – key online resources that we would highlight include:
· Cavan Monaghan Connects - A new online resource on wellbeing supports and services: www.cavanmonaghanconnects.ie
· HSE Balancing Stress - Free online programme: https://www2.hse.ie/mental-health/self-help/-balancing-stress/
· Spunout - Online mental health information and support for young people: https://spunout.ie/
· Let’s talk about suicide - Free online suicide prevention awareness training: www.nosp.ie/training
Link to feature on the new leaflet on Cavan Monaghan Connects: https://cavanmonaghanconnects.ie/news-events/new-hse-leaflet-brings-mental-health-and-wellbeing-supports-together-for-cavan-and-monaghan/
It would be great if you could also like, follow and share content from Cavan Monaghan Connects on your social media platforms to help raise awareness across our communities of the various supports available - https://cavanmonaghanconnects.ie/
Thanks as always for your support with circulating information and please come back to me if you have any queries.
Best regards,
Emer
Éimear Ní Mhaolagáin
Emer Mulligan
Oifigeach Acmhainní um Féinmharú a Chosc, an Chabhán agus Muineachán
Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention, Cavan Monaghan
33- DFI Newsletter
Click here to view the Disability Federation of Ireland Newsletter
34- The Future is Creative Call For Presentations/Workshops I am getting in touch about our callout for the Arts in Education National Day taking place at TU Dublin on Saturday 7 November.
Call for Presentations and Workshops
Deadline: Wednesday 16 September 2026
This year's theme: The Future is Creative: Why arts and creativity in education matter more than ever.
⠀
As we navigate a world shaped by rapid technological change, climate challenges, evolving communities, and new ways of learning and connecting, human creativity has never been more important.
We invite artists, creative practitioners, teachers, educators, academics and arts in education professionals to share presentations or workshops. We are particularly interested in projects and practices that explore:
- Arts in education in the age of AI and emerging technologies
- Arts based approaches to connect with nature, climate action and sustainability
We would really appreciate it if you could share this with your networks.
35- Swanlinbar Tractor Run
36- Update of National Plan on Nuclear and Radiological Emergency Exposures
The plan sets out the steps for a national response to such an emergency exposure accident or incident from abroad, and the subsequent transition to a managed existing exposure situation. The plan provides for the use of the established structures of the National Emergency Co-Ordination Group (NECG), as provided for under government's Strategic Emergency Management (SEM) Framework. These structures set out the appropriate steps, responsibilities and procedures to any such event.
37- How Many Earths Do Our Lifestyles Cost?
Earth Overshoot Day marks the point in the year when humanity's demand for ecological resources and services exceeds what the Earth's ecosystems can regenerate during that same year. Each year on June 5th, which is World Environment Day, the Global Footprint Network announces the Earth Overshoot Day date for the current year. On June 5, 2026, they announced that Earth Overshoot Day 2026 falls on July 30, meaning humanity will have used all the biological resources that Earth can regenerate in a year by that date. How Many Earths Do We Need? Earth Overshoot Day 2026 | Social Justice Ireland
38- Cuilcagh Camino
39- Mullagh Fair
40- Hosepipe Ban For All Ireland July 24th to August 26th
Uisce Éireann has confirmed that a Water Conservation Order will be extended to all counties including Cavan from 00:01 on Friday 24 July until Wednesday 26 August 2026
The prohibited uses are as follows:
Use of water drawn through a hosepipe or similar apparatus for watering a garden.
Cleaning a private motor vehicle using a domestic hosepipe.
Cleaning a private leisure boat.
Filling or maintaining a domestic swimming or paddling pool, except when using hand-held containers filled directly from a tap.
Filling or maintaining a domestic pond, excluding fish ponds.
Filling or maintaining an ornamental fountain, except for commercial purposes.
Filling or replenishing an artificial pond, lake or similar application.
Key tips to help conserve water
Drop the hose: Use a watering can instead of a hose or sprinkler.
Leak free: Check that your home is leak free. Check for running overflows and fix any dripping taps, cisterns or pipes.
Don’t let the tap run: Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can save up to six litres of water per minute.
Choose showers over baths: A seven-minute shower uses significantly less water than the average bath.
Run full loads: Only use washing machines and dishwashers when fully loaded.
Save on flushing: Consider using a cistern displacement device to reduce water use.
41- Council Issues Algae Bloom Warning
Due to prevailing conditions and nutrient enrichment, algal blooms, which appear as a green scum, may appear on lakes throughout the county at this time of year. Avoid contact with algal blooms as they may cause skin irritation or be toxic if ingested. Dogs are particularly sensitive to these blooms
42 Virginia Agricultural Show
43 Ballyjamesduff Youth Art Exhibit
Join us on Saturday, 8 August, from 2.00–3.00pm at The Old Courthouse, Ballyjamesduff, for the Young Artists in Conversation Exhibition.
Celebrate six weeks of creativity, conversation and artistic exploration with the young people of Bounce Back Youth Service. The exhibition features original artwork created through painting, collage, and mixed media, each piece reflecting the unique ideas and perspectives of its young artist.
Everyone is welcome; we’d love to see you there.
Young Artists in Conversation is a partnership between Teach Solais and Bounce Back Youth Service, facilitated by Sally-Ann Duffy and Clare Willis.
This project is supported through the Cavan and Monaghan Youth Arts Bursary 2026, funded by the National Youth Council of Ireland, with support from Cavan County Council, Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB), the Cavan Monaghan Local Creative Youth Partnership (LCYP), and Arts in Education.
44 Gullivers Travels Comes to Cavan for YoutnArt!
Calling all young people... Join artist Anastasiia Zasimchuck at Johnston Central Library for a series of imaginative drawing workshops inspired by Gulliver’s Travels for a new Digital Art Mapping to take place on Cavan Courthouse this October, celebrating the 300th anniversary of Gulliver’s Travels and 200 Years of Cavan Courthouse as part of the Cultúr 2026 programme.
MUST BOOK
Tuesday 4 August
2 Sessions
3~5pm class
Younger kids
6.00pm–8.00pm
Workshop for older children
Tuesday 11 August 5.00pm–7.00pm
Workshop for all ages
Come along, explore your creativity, develop your drawing skills, and help create artwork for this exciting cultural celebration.
Johnston Central Library, Cavan
45-Meet the Makers Arts Event Cavan
Join Cavan Craft Collective for a weekend celebrating creativity, craftsmanship and the talented makers of County Cavan.
The launch evening takes place on:
Thursday 6 August
6pm–10pm
7 Oaks Café, Cavan Town
The exhibition continues throughout the weekend, with demonstrations and talks on Saturday, giving visitors the chance to discover the incredible work of local makers.
Admission is free, but booking is encouraged. Reserve your spot: https://bit.ly/4vTbSWp
Proud to be part of August Craft Month 2026, celebrating makers and craft communities across Ireland.
46 GreenSod Nature Restoration Day in Arderry Cavan
Join us for a volunteer day at our land in Arderry Co. Cavan.
This event will involve a short walk around the site and we will complete some restoration work on the land.
Weather dependent we will also complete some pollinator counts as part of our citizen science programmes.
Further details and meeting point will be provided by email before the event.
47 The Sleeping Giant Seeks Expressions of Interest
CMETB are currently seeking three youth groups, services, or community groups from each of Cavan’s three Municipal Districts – Cavan-Belturbet MD (West Cavan), Cootehill-Bailieborough MD, and Ballyjamesduff MD – to take part in The Sleeping Giant, an exciting countywide community arts project led by artist Tom Meskell.
The Sleeping Giant brings young people together to create, imagine, and celebrate local stories through the arts. Participants will work alongside three trained artists in a fun, supportive environment, exploring themes of creativity, community, heritage, collective imagination, and environmental awareness.
Workshops can be delivered between August and early October and are open to youth groups, youth services, community organisations, and local groups working with young people from ages 6+. Participants will have the opportunity to develop new artistic skills while contributing to a large collaborative exhibition installation.
All artwork created through the project will form part of a countywide exhibition at Urney Church of Ireland, Farnham Street, Cavan Town, on Saturday 24 October and Sunday 25 October, culminating in a Lantern Parade through Cavan Town on the Sunday evening. All participating groups will be invited to attend the exhibition opening and parade celebrations.
This project is part of a wider Gulliver's Travels Celebration Project for October 2026. It is widely acknowledged and recorded in history that Swift was in Co. Cavan in 1726 during the writing of Gulliver’s Travels, inspired by the landscape, people and lakes of the area. He also had strong links to Quilca House in Mullagh, where he stayed and where it’s believed he finished writing the international best-selling book. He also had family connections to Swanlinbar where his uncle, Godwin Swift, had an Ironworks. Local oral folklore there has it for generations, that a famous childhood prank by two little boys in Swanlinbar directly led to the iconic Lilliput scene of Gulliver being tied down.
Places will be offered on a first come first served basis in each district so if your group would like to be part of this unique creative adventure and help bring local stories to life, we would love to hear from you.
Regards
Alan Ryan
Comhordaitheoir Óige Cruthaitheach Aitiúil, Seirbhísí Óige | Local Creative Youth Co-ordinator, Youth Services
Bord Oideachais agus Oiliúna an Chabháin agus Mhuineacháin
Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board
Sráid an Mhargaidh, Muineachán H18 W449
Market Street, Monaghan, H18 W449
W: www.cmetb.ie | M: 087 4884017 | T: 047 30888 ext. 143
Comments