Cavan Community ENews 8.5.26
- 2 days ago
- 28 min read
Updated: 1 day 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 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: Lidl Green Fund
2. FUNDING: The Community Safety Fund
3. FUNDING: Shared Island Civic Society Fund
4. FUNDING: Science Week Funding 5. FUNDING: Working with Nature Awards
6. FUNDING: Festival Investment Scheme 7. FUNDING: Sustainability Step-Up Fund
8. FUNDING: Sustainable Agriculture Fund
9. FUNDING: Community Men's Health Research Fund
10. FUNDING: SE Systems Funding Event in Cavan
TRAINING 11. TRAINING: Be AI Ready 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: Suicide Bereavement & SafeTALK Workshop
SURVEYS/CONSULTS
16.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: New Government Digital Wallet Consultation
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: Findings From NESC Social Cohesion Workshops in Cavan & Dublin
EVENTS & OTHER NEWS 23. Cavan Pride March Is Happening!!! 24. National Biodiversity Week Upcoming 25. Belleeek Community Drop-In 26. StreetFeast 2026 27. Killeshandra Focus Family Resource Centre Seeks Board Members 28. Discuss Rural Isolation in Swanlinbar 29- New Cat & Dog Laws 30- Age Friendly Nominations Open
31- Moving Away From Fossil Fuels 32 -Community Expo & research Launch for Members of Northwestern PPNs 33 - LCDCs, their role and value 34- Does Your Community Want 50 Litres of Paint? 35- DOWRA Events Upcoming
36- Ukrainian & Irish Traditional Dolls Event 37- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th 38- Social Justice Ireland Launch 1st National Social Monitor
39 Cavan's Old Cures Event 40 Free Electric Recycling Day 41 Seeds of Inspiration Launch 42- Afro-Ceili Event 43- Campa Samhraidh 2026
FUNDING
The Lidl Green Fund
The Lidl Green Fund Now Inviting Applications
Lidl's Ireland is giving away €100,000 in funding to community sustainability projects - APPLY NOW!
The Lidl Green Fund is designed to promote, support, and empower local sustainability community projects across Ireland to help communities actively champion sustainable living and protect the planet.
Charities, primary and secondary schools, and community groups from every county can now apply with top award of €25,000 up for grabs and a further €75,000 allocated to a number of smaller projects.
The application deadline is 18 May 2026.
2. The Community Safety Fund
Applications Now Open for 2026 Community Safety Fund
Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan, has opened this year’s nationwide funding call for applications to the 2026 Community Safety Fund (CSF).
First opened in 2022, this annual fund allows for the proceeds of crime, seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and An Garda Síochána, to be redirected into local projects that support and enhance community safety. This year’s fund, totalling €4.75 million, is a significant increase since the initial allocation of €2 million in 2022.
Applications will be open until 5pm on 18 May 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. Science Week Funding
Research Ireland Science Week Funding Programme - 11th May
This Programme is for innovative public engagement projects that connect wider society with research, innovation, and science during Science Week.
Research Ireland delivers Ireland’s national Science Week by providing a focused annual platform that stimulates, supports, and promotes STEM activities created to engage with the public. They provide funding for Science Week Festivals and Events, contributing to the national Science Week effort at a local and regional level. Science Week 2026 will take place from the 8th – 15th November.
The purpose of the Science Week Funding Programme is to provide support to Festivals and Events nationwide that carry out inclusive engagement with STEM during Science Week, in ways that are relevant, accessible and creative.
The 2026 Science Week Funding Programme particularly welcomes applicants:
who are creating a new offering for a community or region not yet served by Science Week, or who are continuing to develop and deepen their engagement with a broad range of communities through existing Festivals and Events.
Science Week welcomes contributions from across the sciences, arts, media, education, youth and/or community work sectors.
Deadline: 11th May 2026 for Festivals & 18th May 2026 for Events
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- Sustainable Agriculture Funding
PRIMARY is excited to announce their upcoming Open Call, offering €900,000 in funding to support innovative partnerships that will validate, adapt and scale sustainable agricultural solutions across Europe.
They’re seeking dynamic consortia of 2-3 partners who will:
Validate and refine PRIMARY’s proven business models for agricultural waste valorisation
Demonstrate the replicability and scalability of PRIMARY’s innovative processes in new European regions
Generate practical evidence of technical feasibility, economic viability, and sustainability under real rural conditions
Develop profitable value chains from underutilised agricultural feedstocks
Deadline: 8th June
More info: https://www.primary-project.eu/open-call/
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
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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- SE Systems Sustainability Funding Event in Cavan
I’m reaching out from SE Systems (https://sesystems.ie/), one of Ireland’s leading energy retrofit and energy solutions providers.
We help households, businesses, and communities across Ireland reduce energy costs, improve facilities, and access funding for sustainable upgrades. As SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s) largest grant partner, we provide full support from grant applications through to project delivery.
We are hosting a free event in Cavan on Thursday the 21st if May, focused on helping all to understand the funding and support available for energy upgrades and sustainability projects. This event is being run in partnership with Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and the local Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) in Cavan.
The event will cover: • Available grants and funding opportunities for community organisations • Ways to reduce rising energy costs and improve building efficiency • Practical retrofit solutions for clubs, halls, and community facilities • Real examples of successful projects delivered across Ireland • Expert guidance on the full process from application to project completion
This is a great opportunity for your community to learn how they can improve their facilities, make long-term savings,
and create more sustainable spaces for their members.
You can find full event details and registration here:https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/1987600367203?aff=oddtdtcreator
We’d really appreciate it if you could share this through your newsletters, social media, WhatsApp groups, or directly with anyone who may benefit from attending.
TRAINING
11- AI Ready Training
The Irish Government have launched a new AI training program for members of the public to learn the basics of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for free, in easy, bite-sized lessons you can take anywhere.
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- Suicide Bereavement & SafeTALK Workshop
1. Suicide Bereavement one day course for front line staff on Wednesday, 13th May 2026 in the Conaty Centre, Cavan – see poster attached for sharing: Click Here to Book a place.
2. SafeTALK Workshop on Thursday 14th May from 10 – 1.30 pm in the County Museum, Ballyjamesduff (poster attached). Click Here to Book a place.
SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS
16- New Government Digital Wallet Consult
We want to build a Government Digital Wallet that people trust and value. To support the development of the Government Digital Wallet programme, including drafting legislation and its rollout, we want to hear from you. To do that, we need to understand what you expect, what worries you may have, and how we can communicate about it in a way that is easy to understand. See full details at: Welcome to the Government Digital Wallet
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-
safety-plan-2026-2028-survey
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- Findings From NESC Social Cohesion Workshops in Cavan & Dublin
The NESC have collated your outputs into a report, published today and available on their website here: https://www.nesc.ie/publications/social-cohesion-report-of-workshops-held-in-dublin-and-cavan/
These outputs will inform our continued work in this area, the Council’s research, and the programme for the Social Cohesion Conference as part of the agenda for Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
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- National Biodiversity Week Upcoming
National Biodiversity Week (Friday 15th - Sunday 24th May) is coordinated by the Irish Environmental Network. All events are free of charge and open to all. See the full listing here.
So far there are seven events published, taking part in Dublin, Wicklow, Limerick, and Cork, with more to be announced next week. Our ticketed events include Bithéagsúlacht agus Gaeilge | Biodiversity and Irish and People for Bees at the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin and Hedgerows, a Biodiversity Lifeline in West Cork. These three events are free of charge and with limited spaces, so we advise booking soon!
25- Belleek Community Drop In
We’re pleased to share that our Belleek Community Drop-In, which was previously postponed, has now been rescheduled. Thank you for your understanding and kindness during this time.
We’re creating a Community Plan for the Geopark and want your voice at its heart. Share your thoughts on heritage, environment, tourism, future projects, community wellbeing and more.
Belleek Hub, Belleek Tuesday 12th May 2026 11am – 1pm
This informal drop-in is a great opportunity to meet the Geopark team, share ideas, ask questions, and hear more about what’s happening locally. Everyone is very welcome to attend.
26- Street Feast 2026
We have so much to tell you about Street Feast 2026 on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th May! We'd love you to join us and over 1,200 Street Feast hosts for Ireland friendliest neighbourly gathering.
First up: We've been working with our partners at Tesco to upgrade our Street Feast packs with a few surprises, including vouchers (you know - every little helps ;)).
AND... we're planning some great competitions with prizes to add a little magic to your Feast. We'll be announcing them on our socials and in our newsletters, so keep your eyes peeled.
It is truly going to be the best year yet and we'd love you to be part of it!
Now the days are getting longer and brighter, its time to seize the moment and celebrate the people who live around us.
Ready to host?
Register for your free party pack with all the essentials - bunting, invitations, posters and more - just go to www.streetfeast.ie
Hosting a Street Feast is easy, all you need to do is:
Pick a place – your street, local carpark, garden or community hall - anywhere will do!
Get inviting – use our party pack essentials to help get the word out!
Bring some food – ask people to rustle up their favourite dish and best baked goods to make a great picnic - or stick on the BBQ!
Enjoy the magic – connect with your neighbours, new and old!
27- Killeshandra Family Resource Centre Seek Board Members
28- Discuss Rural Isolation in Swanlinbar
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- Moving Away From Fossil Fuels
A targeted package of measures to support people to move away from fossil fuels for energy, heat and transport must be part of Government’s strategy to support households with energy affordability. Long-term planning on the type of energy infrastructure required and how we manage the transition to a society powered by renewables in the future is critical, as is an accurate assessment of the type of investment required both to create the infrastructure and to maintain it.
32- Invite to Northwest PPN Members to Community Expo & Research Launch
Dear North West PPN Members
Sligo PPN Secretariat are delighted to let you know that registration is NOW OPEN for our PPN Community Expo and Research Launch event on the 18th May in the Clayton Hotel.
As a reminder, this event is being held with support of ATU Sligo and has few key aims;
To officially launch the national research conducted under the Power To Change initiative (Barriers to action by Community and Voluntary Groups; with specific reference to involvement in Climate Action). This research explores and provides an evidence base of the many challenges facing community organisations across Ireland and many community organisations from across the North West gave time to the process. We want to take the opportunity to present the findings to you and discuss how this information can be used to lobby for change. The research will be launched by Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU Sligo.
To provide an opportunity for community groups and local organisations to showcase their work, increase their profile and make important local connections across the North West.
To offer a thank you to all those people who took part in the community research and helped us to gain such an important insight, and to those willing to showcase their work.
To strengthen the connection between ATU and local community and explore how the two sectors can work more collaboratively.
The event is free to all, but registration is important to allow us to manage seating, room set up and refreshments.
Registration is essential for research participants and expo stand holders attending the Thank You lunch.
(NB if several members are attending from one organisation please register individually)
Register at;
If you have any problems with registration please email us at : ppn@sligococo.ie
PPN Team
Sarah Wetherald
Network Manager
Sligo Public Participation Network
33- Highlighting the Work of LCDCs
Minister Jerry Buttimer launches new national campaign to highlight the role of Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs)
LCDCs connect community groups with public bodies
Clubs and Voluntary Groups encouraged to engage with their LCDCs
Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, has today (Friday, 1 May 2026) launched a new national awareness campaign to highlight how Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) connect public bodies and communities across Ireland.
Local Community Development Committees are established in each local authority area to help implement community development initiatives and support community programmes such as the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), Healthy Cities, the Empowering Communities Programme and the Local Enhancement Programme.
Speaking at an event in Cork City to launch the campaign, Minister Buttimer said:
“It gives me great pleasure, as Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, to be able to support and highlight LCDCs across Ireland and to raise awareness of the vital role LCDCs play in supporting communities, coordinating services, and improving quality of life across the country.
“Local Community Development Committees bring public bodies and community organisations around the same table so that services are better planned, better coordinated, and more responsive to local needs. Through this campaign, we want every community group and local resident to know that there is a structure in place - the LCDC - that is there to help them work with public bodies, access supports and shape the future of their area”.
LCDCs contribute to the development of local communities, through economic and community actions contained in each Local Economic and Community Plan.
Local Economic and Community Plans set out, for a six-year period, the objectives and actions needed to promote and support the economic, and community, development of the relevant local authority area.
This new campaign to highlight the role of LCDCs encourages anyone who is involved in a club, a voluntary group, or who simply wants better community services in their area to learn more about how their local LCDC can help.
Coilín O’Reilly, Chair of the County and City Management Association’s Rural, Community, Culture and Heritage Committee and Chief Executive of Carlow County Council said:
“Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) are a key part of local government and play an important role in supporting the social, cultural, and economic development of communities. By bringing together local authorities, public bodies and community interests, LCDCs promote a joined-up approach to planning and delivering programmes at local level, helping to strengthen local democracy. The CCMA welcomes this campaign as an important step in raising awareness of LCDCs as a vital community service and of the role they play in supporting communities across the country.”
Rebecca Loughry, Director of Services, Corporate, Community & Cultural Affairs, Cork City Council added:
“On behalf of Cork City LCDC, I would like to welcome the launch of this important campaign. This is a great opportunity to highlight the important work done by LCDC’s around the country. As chief officer of the Cork City LCDC I am particularly delighted that Minister Buttimer has chosen Cork City as the location to launch the LCDC national and local communication communications campaign of awareness.”
The campaign entitled - “Our LCDCs - Building better communities together - le chéile” - will run from 1 May 2026 for three weeks across radio, podcasts, print and online media.
Visit gov.ie/lcdc to find out more.
The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht has statutory and strategic responsibility for the operation of the 33 Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) and the development and implementation of the six-year Local Economic and Community Plans (LECPs) in each local authority area.
The purpose of the LCDC is to develop, co-ordinate and implement a coherent and integrated approach to local and community development.
As part of DRCDGs ongoing efforts to enhance the awareness and understanding of the LCDCs, the Department engaged a communications consultant, Match Marketing, in December 2024, following a public procurement process, to develop a communications campaign to be rolled out in May 2026. The campaign is overseen by a Working Group with representatives of the LCDCs, City and County Management Association (CCMA), and their main stakeholder groups as well as relevant departmental representatives.
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 the Local Economic and Community Plans.
Visit gov.ie/lcdc to get more information on the LCDCs.Find a direct link to each of the 33 LCDCs here.
34- Does Your Community Want 50 Litres of Paint?
About the Giveaway
The Paint Reuse Network is excited to bring back the Colour to Communities Giveaway, offering communities across Ireland the chance to win up to 50 litres of high-quality, reused paint to brighten their local spaces.
The competition is open to schools, charities, social enterprises, and community groups with creative ideas to give their areas a fresh, vibrant look while promoting sustainability. Three winners – two from each of Ireland’s National Waste Regions – will receive up to 50 litres of free water-based paint to bring their projects to life.
Previous winners have transformed their community spaces with biodiversity murals, refreshed school walls, and collaborative paint projects.
How to Enter
Submit a short description of your proposed community painting project by 15 May 2026. Winners will be announced by the end of May!
35- An Evening with Bats in Dowra
Dowra Tidy Towns is inviting you to come and join us on a Talk, Walk and Games with Bat Conservation Ireland.
We will learn about the different species we have in Ireland and how we can support the Bat population.
We will be going out on a walk with a bat detector.
Bats are important to the ecosystem because they control insect populations, pollinate plants, and disperse seeds. Bats are an integral part of sustainable habitats
Dowra Tidy Towns are organising a free Leave No Trace certified training day on May 17th in Dowra Resource Centre.details at: https://www.leavenotraceireland.org/training-event/biodiversity-week-free-awareness-day-course/
36- Ukrainian/Irish Trad Dolls Workshop
A lovely event coming to Virginia Show Centre!
Ukrainian & Irish Traditional Dolls Workshop Series by Women Without Borders
15th, 21st & 29th May
6pm – 9pm
Virginia Show Centre
A beautiful mix of culture, creativity and connection
Learn the stories behind traditional dolls, create your own, meet new people, and enjoy a warm, welcoming space.
Open to all women
No experience needed
To book, send a message to Women Without Borders or WhatsApp 0873792935
37- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th
38- Social Justice Ireland Launches First National Social Monitor
National Social Monitor - The Future Starts Now: Policies For the Next Generation
Join us online for the launch of our first National Social Monitor of 2026 on May 6, 2026 at 01:30 PM. The theme for this addition is Youth Policy.
39- Cavan's Cures Event
Join us as Sarah McKenna Dunne launches her powerful new book exploring the people of Cavan and surrounding counties who hold “the cure” — an ancient tradition still alive in modern Ireland.
For two years, Sarah travelled the region meeting healers, collecting stories, and asking:
Who are the people with cures?
How did they get them?
Why do they continue the practice?
Can these traditions be passed on?
Featuring artwork by Margaret McKenna and photography by Lorraine Teevan, this book offers a rare insight into a disappearing tradition.
Cavan County Museum
8 May 2026
7:30pm
Suitable for all ages — especially those who love storytelling, heritage, and local history.
Booking advised - contact Cavan County Museum
049 854 4070
This project is funded by CreativeIrl and Cavan County Council through Creative Cavan Open Call Grants.
40- Free Electrical Recycling Drop Offs in Cavan
ERP Free Electrical Recycling Drop Off Events 2026
Ballyjamesduff – The Mart
Thursday, 9 May 2026
10am to 4pm
Virginia – Lidl Car Park
Saturday, 20 June 2026
10am to 4pm
You can drop off any household item with a plug, cable or battery — big or small — including TVs, washing machines, IT equipment, power tools, mobile phones, battery‑operated toys, wireless earbuds and even used vapes!
41 Seeds of Inspiration Launch
42- 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
43- Campa Samhraidh 2026
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