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Cavan Community ENews 5.6.26

  • 1 day ago
  • 25 min read

Updated: 2 hours ago

With over 40 pieces of news this week (including several new funds and new community training) welcome to your weekly ENews. Our news is compiled weekly from our over 500 member groups (569 as of this week!), partner agencies and funders. The deadline for submitting to cavanppn@gmail.com is noon Wednesdays with the title 'ENEWS ITEM' and we can only take community focused news. Please try to ensure that items fit to one A4 page for ease of reading by recipients. Please note that views/items contained within our ENews may not reflect the values/policies of CavanPPN.

Many Thanks, The CavanPPN Team (Aisling, Finian & Daniel). info@cavanppn.ie, CavanPPN, CCLD, Corlurgan, Cavan. H12 X9Y1 


CONTENTS (Shaded are new items this week, but all are still relevant/in date)


FUNDING

1. FUNDING: Simone Veil Prize

2. FUNDING: LAWPRO Small Grant Event Scheme

3. FUNDING: National Heritage Week Applications Open

4. FUNDING: Arts & Health Award 5. FUNDING: AIB Community Fund

6. FUNDING: Power to Participate Disability Fund 7. FUNDING:  Skills for Tomorrow Fund

8. FUNDING: Culture Night Open Call

9. FUNDING: REACH Fund New Call 10. FUNDING: Team Ireland Community Fund 11. FUNDING: Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme Open


TRAINING 12. TRAINING: Parenting Workshops 13. TRAINING: New Community Training Courses for PPN Groups 14. TRAINING: Supporting Safer Online Intertactions 15- TRAINING: Family Literacy Resources


SURVEYS/CONSULTS

16.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: EU Youth Strategy

17.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: All Ireland Squirrel and Pine Marten 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: National Recycle Bin Survey 22.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: 1st Consult on Ireland's Nature Restoration Plan 23.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Identify Cavan Bathing Sites Near You NOW!



EVENTS & OTHER NEWS 24. Older Person's Council Information Session 25. Cavan Social Prescribing 26. Climate Action & Sustainability Workshop 27. Plant-Based Food Systems 28. Free Community Based 'We Can Quit' Smoking Programme 29-  Cavan County Museum Upcoming Events 30- Disability Federation of Ireland News

31- Cruinniu na nOg in Your Area 32 -Your Council Day 2026 33 - Make It Clay in Swanlinbar 34- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th 35- See Her Elected Event 36- Campa Samhraidh 2026

37- Hedgehog Ireland Webinar





The bane of many a country walker these days
The bane of many a country walker these days



FUNDING

  1. Simone Veil Prize

The first edition of the Simone Veil Prize is now open for applications!

This new European cultural prize is named after Simone Veil, a Holocaust survivor, first President of the European Parliament, and tireless advocate for human rights.

Co-funded by the Creative Europe programme, the Prize recognises initiatives leveraging heritage and places of memory to promote civic engagement, education, and democratic values. Europe’s shared history is shaped by the contributions of many cultures, including Jewish cultural heritage, and this action reflects that.

Important to know:

5 different categories, including heritage for dialogue and youth engagement

 Prizes given to up to 25 finalists

 5 Grand Prix winners will receive €10,000 each

 31 July 2026 (23:59 CET) deadline to apply

Award ceremony at the end of the year.

Find info about the requirements and apply now:

 



2.    LAWPRO Small Grants Events Scheme

LAWPRO Small Grants  & Events Scheme - 31st Oct*


This grants scheme is for community groups to apply for small scale initiatives and events outside of LAWPRO's targeted open calls. It covers events such as World Wetland Day, Biodiversity Week, Science Week, etc. It may also be used for small awareness raising initiatives such as surveys and plans, citizen science, hosting a meeting, workshops, litter pick, publications, biodiversity signage, or other such small scale initiatives. Applications must have a water quality or water awareness focus.  


Deadline: *None stated, but all expenditure must be incurred before 31st October and grants must be drawn down before 6th November 2026




3.  National Heritage Week Applications Open

Cavan County Heritage Office, in association with The Heritage Council, invites community groups and organisations to get involved in National Heritage Week 2026! There were over 62 events in Cavan in 2025 and this year promises to be even better!

This year’s theme, “Heritage at Risk", encourages us to explore the aspects of our heritage that are vulnerable or under threat - from historic buildings and archaeological sites to traditions, skills, and natural habitats.

Do you have an idea for an event, talk, walk, workshop, or activity? This is your chance to share your local heritage and be part of this important national celebration. 

Applications are now open.





4.     Arts & Health Awards

Are you an artist with an established arts and health practice? Would you like an opportunity to reflect on your work in health and social care contexts?

The artsandhealth.ie Artist Reflective Bursary is open to individual artists working in any artform in the Republic of Ireland.

This bursary is designed to provide artists with the time and headspace to reflect on and interrogate their participatory practice with health and social care communities.

One bursary award of €2000 will be offered to the successful applicant.



5.   AIB Community Fund

AIB Community €1 Million Fund 2026 - 19th June


The AIB Community €1 Million Fund enables customers, the public and our employees to support the local charities that matter most to them, within their region. The Fund supports charities across six regions in Ireland, Northern Ireland & Great Britain.


AIB will once again allocate €700,000 to charities chosen by its customers and the community, while €300,000 will be donated to charities chosen by employees. Anyone, including AIB customers, employees, and the general public, can nominate a registered charity


As they celebrate 60 years of AIB in 2026, they’re marking this milestone by strengthening that commitment and adding an extra once-off €60,000 to the AIB Community €1 Million Fund. This will provide an additional €10,000 per region, enabling them to support even more local projects and initiatives in our communities.


The 2026 AIB Community €1 Million Fund is now open.


Deadline: 5pm 19th June 2026



6.        Power to Participate Disability Fund

Power to Participate Fund for Disabled Persons’ Organisations - 26th June


Power to Participate: Strengthening Stakeholder Engagement Fund 2026 will make individual grants available to organisations that are led by and include disabled people so they can work with Government Departments on policies and initiatives to deliver on the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People 2025-2030.


This commitment is in line with obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to ensure that disabled people and their representative organisations are included in the development and delivery of policy and legislation that affects their lives.


Grants will help provide Assistive Technology, support training, help the organisation register as a charity, establish their board, support them to grow and more.


Deadline: 26th June 2026



7.      Skills for Tomorrow Fund


Skills for Tomorrow Fund - 29th June


The Skills for Tomorrow Fund aims to support innovative, evidence-based projects that build the capacity of individuals and communities experiencing marginalisation to thrive in the future world of work.  


It will fund initiatives that provide practical, accessible and relevant pathways to employment while addressing the root causes of disadvantage and promoting inclusive economic participation.  


There are two strands to the fund: one strand supporting youth-focused projects and another strand supporting adult-focused projects. 


The Skills for Tomorrow Fund is a €1.5 million, 2.5 year fund supported by Deloitte Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht (DRCDG) via the Dormant Accounts fund.  


Deadline: 1pm Monday 29th June 2026



8- Culture Night Open Call


 Call for Applications – Culture Night Cavan 2026!

Cavan Arts and Cavan County Council are delighted to announce Culture Night 2026 will take place on Friday 18 September, from 4pm until late!

Tá lúcháir ar Ealaíon an Chabháin agus ar Chomhairle Contae an Chabháin a fhógairt go mbeidh Oíche Chultúir 2026 ar siúl Dé hAoine, an 18 Meán Fómhair, ó 4in go déanach san oíche!

We’re inviting artists, creatives, community groups and organisations across County Cavan to get involved in this vibrant, all-island celebration of culture, creativity and the arts.

 Funding available: €250 – €1,200

 Deadline: Sunday 28 June at 8:00pm

Culture Night brings people together to experience culture in all its forms – from arts and heritage to music, performance, Irish language, community initiatives and more. Please ensure where possible projects that inclusive, accessible, and engaging for diverse audiences.

 To apply, you will need to upload:

• A budget (Word or Excel)

• An image you have permission to use promoting the event

To apply scan the QR code or Click: https://forms.office.com/e/N8Bu5yrmLy

 Please ensure all sections of the application form are completed and submitted.

Let’s make it a night to remember!




9- REACH Fund


Important Dates:

  • Application Deadline: 5pm, Monday, 15 June 2026.

 

For More Information or Queries:

 

Online applications are now open and interested parties can apply online via https://submit.link/50c



10- Team Ireland Community Fund

SPAR and EUROSPAR Community Fund 2026 - 8th July


SPAR and EUROSPAR, proud partners of Team Ireland, are delighted to launch the Team Ireland Community Fund – a €60,000 fund designed to support local sports clubs across Ireland.  We’re looking for clubs that are Hungry for Success – groups that are making a real difference in their communities and could benefit from funding to help them go further.


A total fund of €60,000 is available, with 30 clubs set to receive €2,000 each.


If you’re involved with a local sports club, now is your chance to apply for funding to support your future plans – whether that’s new equipment, facility upgrades, or initiatives to help your club grow.


Deadline: 8th July 2026





11- Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme Open


Minister Calleary launches €20 million fund to support Outdoor Recreation in rural areas

  • Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme now open for applications

  • Targeted funding for Gaeltacht and Island communities

  • Enhanced funding for project development and maintenance of existing amenities


The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has launched the 2026-2027 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) with €20 million available for investment.


The Minister launched the scheme while in Co. Monaghan at the official opening of recreational enhancements on Black Island, Lough Muckno, a project that received over €500,000 in ORIS funding in 2022.


The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme provides funding for the development and maintenance of new and existing outdoor recreational infrastructure in rural areas and will support hundreds of outdoor recreation projects nationwide.


Now in its tenth year, the scheme has to date invested over €150 million in over 2,000 recreation projects at our mountains, lakes, rivers, beaches, blue-ways, bogs, forest walks and upland areas.


Speaking at the launch, the Minister said:


“I am delighted to be announcing this significant funding package today that will continue to deliver for the outdoor recreation sector. The projects we have delivered in the last ten years have not only supported our physical and mental wellbeing, but they have also been a driver of economic benefit in some of the most beautiful parts of our country.


“Through ‘Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors’, the national outdoor recreation strategy, my Department is working to transform the outdoor recreation sector in Ireland.


“I want to acknowledge the tremendous efforts made by all the volunteers and committees who have worked with lead applicants in the past ten years in delivering for our country and I look forward to continuing to deliver with you into the future.”


Funding under the 2026-2027 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme will provide support across three main measures with funding of up to €40,000 for Small Scale repairs, maintenance, promotion and marketing under Measure 1. Under Measure 2, grant amounts of up to €200,000 are available for medium scale repair/ maintenance/upgrade and new trail/amenity development. Finally grants of up to €500,000 are available in Measure 3 for strategic large-scale repair/upgrade and new strategic trail/amenity development. In addition, an enhanced Project Development Measure (PDM) will support lead applicants in delivering a pipeline of shovel ready projects for future funding rounds.


Applications are invited from local authorities, local development companies and state bodies, in consultation with local communities and aligning with emerging project recommendations from new county outdoor recreation plans that are being developed across the country.


The Minister concluded by saying:


“I am pleased to be providing greater flexibility to local authorities and local development companies to fund the pre development work required for new projects, including for equestrian trails, and also to be permitting an additional project application from one Gaeltacht or island area in each county as appropriate. I have also clarified the role that this scheme can play in undertaking capital maintenance works on existing amenities.


“I look forward to announcing the successful projects under this fund in due course and would encourage groups with an idea for a project to engage with their local authority or local development company who will be happy to support them.”



The 2026-27 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme with an allocation of €20 million with support for the development and maintenance of recreational projects nationwide.


Funding is available under four measures;

  • Measure 1: Small Scale Repair/Maintenance/Development/Promotion and Marketing (Grant Amounts: Up to €40,000)

  • Measure 2: Medium Scale Repair/ Maintenance/Upgrade and New Trail/Amenity Development (Grant Amounts: Up to €200,000)

  • Measure 3: Strategic Large-Scale Repair/Upgrade and New Strategic Trail/Amenity Development (Grant amounts: Up to €500,000)

  • Project Development Measure: Development costs for New Projects (Grant amounts: vary up to combined maximum of €100,000 per local authority or €70,000 per local development company)


Gaeltacht and the Islands:

  • Local authorities may submit one additional Project Development Measure for a project valued at up to €50,000 if they have offshore islands or Gaeltacht areas

  • Local authorities can submit one additional application under Measure 1 if they have offshore islands or Gaeltacht areas.


New for 2026:

  • Local authorities may also submit one additional application to the value of €50,000 to support the predevelopment work required to develop equestrian trails/bridleways This is with a view to increasing the number of these facilities in a targeted way.


Applications under measure 1 and the PDM will close on 25 September, with measure 2 and 3 applications being accepted to 15 December.




TRAINING



12- Parenting Workshops



Tuesday 2nd June 2026 at 10:00am - Stop, Think, Act! - Helping Children Manage Impulsivity

Learn why kids act before they think—and discover strategies to support self-control, focus, and calmer family life.

This free workshop helps parents and caregivers understand what impulsive behaviours are, how they affect children’s daily lives, and what can be done to support them.




13- 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



14- Supporting Safer Online Interactions

This webinar offers stakeholders working in suicide prevention, mental health and community services a practical introduction to resources that help people stay safer and become more confident online. The session focuses on everyday supports, with contributions from Webwise and spunout.


To view the recorded webinar, please click here.

Details are included below on the key resources referenced during the presentations from Webwise and spunout. The slide decks used during the session are attached, and

Webwise Resources

Better Internet for Kids – Resource Directoryhttps://better-internet-for-kids.europa.eu/en/resource-directory

Teacher and Educator Resourceshttps://www.webwise.ie/teachers/resources/

HTML Heroes (1st and 2nd Class Programme)https://heroes.webwise.ie


spunout Resources

spunout academy



15 Family Literacy Resources

Family literacy is a vital part of literacy. Family literacy is learning that involves children and their family members. It helps to develop reading, writing, and communication skills. It matters because when families actively support literacy at home, children are more likely to succeed in school and develop a lifelong love of learning. Strong family literacy also strengthens relationships and empowers parents or caregivers to play a confident role in their child’s education.

The family literacy calendar resource for June and July is now available. It is interactive: you can click on the link on each day and it will take you to a resource for family literacy.

I have attached the pdf and the Word versions, it can also be accessed here:




SURVEYS/CONSULTATIONS



16-  EU Youth Strategy

The 2019-2027 EU Youth Strategy is coming to an end. The strategy supports social and civic engagement for young people. It also aims to improve policy decisions and their impact on young people. The aim of this public consultation is to gather views and suggestions to inform the European Commission’s proposals for the post-2027 EU Youth Strategy.





17- All-Ireland Squirrel & Pine Marten Survey

Tails of three woodland species: The All-Ireland Squirrel & Pine Marten Survey



Discover the fascinating world of Ireland's squirrels and pine martens! Join Dr Colin Lawton (University of Galway), Katy Bell (Ulster Wildlife), and Vicky Knight (Vincent Wildlife Trust) as they share insights into these woodland specialists and how they interact in the wild.


Get the latest updates on the 2026 All-Ireland Squirrel and Pine Marten Survey and find out how you can help.


Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and get involved! Report your sightings of all three species.



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. 

 

 

It's short and not too onerous.




21-  National Recycling Bin Survey

The National Recycling Bin Survey is Back!

If you are as concerned as we are, about the amount of packaging that ends up in our bins and would like to do something about it, please join our survey and help us fight Ireland’s biggest packaging problem!

Register today NRBS 2026

The National Recycling Bin Survey is unlike anything else in Ireland. It asks simple but powerful questions: What is in your recycling bin? Where does it come from? What is it used for?

By collecting this information, we aim to reach three main objectives:

  • ‍Focus attention on the real problem: the excessive production of packaging.

  • Shift the blame away from consumers.

  • Inform better policies.

By 2030, certain types of single-use plastic will be banned, and by 2040, the use of packaging overall must be reduced by 15%. However, in Ireland, even though recycling by weight has increased, overall recycling percentages aren’t improving because our packaging consumption is growing faster. Take Part in our Survey



22- 1st Consult on Ireland's Nature Restoration Plan

 The Department recognises the importance of consultation and wishes to make the process of preparing Ireland’s draft NRP as open and transparent as possible by allowing members of the public and interested stakeholders to make submissions that will inform and shape the development of Ireland’s draft NRP, specifically to:


23.SURVEYS/CONSULTS: Identify Cavan Bathing Sites Near You NOW!

Local authorities must identify official bathing areas in their area every year so that they can be monitored for safety, water quality and their level of use.  To help with this process, Cavan County Council is asking people who swim at beaches, lakes and rivers to tell them if they think they should maintain existing designated bathing waters designations or give a new official bathing area designation to areas that are commonly used for swimming, but not identified at the moment.


EVENTS & OTHER NEWS


24- Older Persons Council Info Session



25- Cavan Social Prescribing





26-  Climate Action & Sustainability Workshop

The National Economic and Social Council (NESC) is currently undertaking research on Ireland's approach to climate action and sustainability and what is needed to put Ireland on track to a sustainable future. NESC is holding cross-stakeholder community workshops in Dublin (23rd June) and Athlone (7th July), each with the same agenda, to gather contributions from a diverse range of stakeholders and communities.

We want to hear from you about your views on a sustainable future, what matters to you and what is important to make it happen. A report of the workshop will be published on NESC's website and outcomes of this workshop will inform NESC's research and advice to government on Ireland's sustainable future. 

What do we need from YOU?

During the workshop, you will be asked what you think are the important features of a sustainable and fair future through the perspective of different people's lived experiences. 

In the morning, we will work in breakout groups to develop those shared perspectives, so in the afternoon we can work on the story of how Ireland achieves a transformation to a sustainable and fair future. 

If you would like to attend either workshop please register at the relevant link as follows: 

If you would like to share the invite with a friend or colleague who would also be interested, please go ahead. However, spaces are limited, so please register as soon as you can to get a place. Places will be allocated to ensure that a diversity of people and organisations are represented. You can find out more about NESC on our website www.nesc.ie


27-  Plant-Based Food Systems

Advantages of a Plant-Based Food System


June 10th, 7pm

Online


GREEN FOUNDATION IRELAND invites you to join us for an evening online talk "Advantages of a Plant-Based Food System".


In 2023 the Danish Government – the first country in the world – published a 'Danish Action Plan for Plant-Based Foods'. In its preface, the Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries, Jacob Jensen from the Liberal Party of Denmark, stated that "plant-based foods are the future" and that increasing the production and consumption of plant-based foods will help solve a whole list of societal challenges ranging from health to environment.


In this talk we will explore the benefits of Ireland taking steps towards a plant-based food system.


Our guest speaker is JAMES O'DONOVAN, who became vegetarian in 1991 after reading John Robbins' book 'Diet for a New America' (1987, Stillpoint) and became vegan in 2011. In 2018 he set up and co-edited the online magazine 'Vegan Sustainability' with Bronwyn Slater of 'The Irish Vegan' until 2024. In 2022 they started working with others to set up the Vegan Society of Ireland. He currently works part-time as a training provider for community groups on sustainability issues.






28- Free Community Based 'We Can Quit' Smoking Programme

HSE Launches ‘We Can Quit’ Smoking Cessation Programme Across Cavan

and Monaghan

Free community-based stop smoking support programme now available to

help people quit for good

The HSE has announced the rollout of the ‘We Can Quit’ programme across

counties Cavan and Monaghan, offering free, community-based support for people

who want to stop smoking and improve their long-term health and wellbeing.

The evidence-based programme provides participants with weekly group support

sessions, one-to-one guidance from trained stop smoking facilitators, and access to

free stop smoking medications over a 12-week period.

Delivered in partnership with local community organisations, the initiative is designed

to support people through every stage of their quit journey in a welcoming, non-

judgemental environment.

Smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable illness and death in

Ireland, contributing to serious health conditions including heart disease, stroke,

respiratory illness and cancer. The ‘We Can Quit’ programme aims to empower

individuals with the practical tools, professional support and peer encouragement

needed to successfully quit smoking.

Participants in the programme will benefit from:

 Weekly stop smoking support groups

 One-to-one support from trained facilitators

 Access to free stop smoking medications

 Carbon monoxide monitoring and progress tracking

 Practical advice to manage cravings and prevent relapse

 Encouragement and support from peers going through the same journey

Kate Gerard, Sláintecare Healthy Communities Coordinator with the HSE, welcomed

the expansion of the programme across the region.

“Quitting smoking is one of the most important positive steps a person can take for

their health, but we know it can be extremely challenging to do alone. The ‘We Can

Quit’ programme offers people in Cavan and Monaghan free, supportive and

practical help within their own communities. Through group encouragement, one-to-

one support and access to stop smoking treatments, participants are given the best

possible chance to quit successfully and stay smoke-free.”


The HSE says people are significantly more likely to quit smoking successfully when

they combine behavioural support with stop smoking medications and a structured

quit plan.

The programme is open to adults who want to quit smoking, with sessions facilitated

locally through community-based organisations. Programmes typically run over 10 to

12 weeks and are tailored to support participants at every step.

People interested in joining the ‘We Can Quit’ programme which begins on Thursday

18th June in Cavan or Monaghan, can contact:

Teach na nDaoine Family Resource Centre

Oriel Way, Monaghan

Phone: 047 71398

Alternatively, people can access support through the HSE Quit Team by calling

Freephone 1800 201 203 or by visiting the HSE website.




The ‘We Can Quit’ programme is a free HSE-supported smoking cessation initiative

delivered in partnership with community organisations nationwide.

The programme combines behavioural support, peer encouragement and access to

stop smoking medications to increase the likelihood of successfully quitting smoking.

quit/we-can-quit/




29-  Cavan Museum Upcoming Events


A Chairde,

 

Continuing our year of 30th Anniversary Celebrations, we are having a FREE ENTRY Saturday each month this Summer, starting this Saturday with scheduled tours of the Trenches. See below for dates for your diary!

 

FREE ENTRY SATURDAY

 

Saturday, 20th June 2026 30th Anniversary Family Fun Day with   The Big Dig, Vikings, Medieval Living history, Working Steam Engine and more

 

Saturday, 25th July 2026 30th Anniversary Summer Garden Party                                     

 

Saturday, 22nd August 2026 Lough Sheelin, The history and mystery of this beautiful lake, told through art music and film

            

 

And there is more …..

 

Cruinniú na nÓg is on Saturday, June 6th. A fun day awaits.

 

The Nugent 100 Conference is on Saturday, July 4th  - with MC Dr. Brendan Scott of Maynooth University and Speakers Dr. Nick Perry who will speak on Major General Oliver Nugent, the Ulster Division and the Battle of the Somme, Ronan McGreevy who will speak on Field Marshall Sir Henry Wilson in WW1, his local links and relationship with Oliver Nugent, and Dr. Fionnuala Walsh who will speak on Irish Women in WW1.

 

Heritage Week runs from August 15th to 22nd, starting with a lunchtime lecture with Artist Kevin Sweeney on The evolution of house dwellings in Ireland at 12pm on August 15th; Breithann Smith, our Education ＆ Tour Guide Assistant,  will be launching his new tour that afternoon; Trench Tours all week; The Erne Quilters Exhibition will be on display in the Eden Gallery;  Heritage Week ends on the 22nd, with the opening of the exhibition of Lough Sheelin, the history and mystery of this beautiful lake, told through art music and film, a collaboration of  local artists, Kim Gaffney, Colette Kearney, Musician Barry O'Reilly and Videographer Dimitry from Jago Studios and funded by Creative Cavan.

 

Hope to meet you at one (or all ) of the events!

 

Is mise le meas,

 

Ann Gerety Smyth

Museum Curator

Cavan County Museum

Virginia Road, Ballyjamesduff, Cavan

(049)4378647



30-  Age Friendly Nominations Open

Click here to view the Disability Federation of Ireland Newsletter




31- Cruinniū na nŌG


Cruinniú na nÓg is Ireland’s national day of free creativity for children and young people under 18, taking place every June.

It’s the only event of its kind in the world, offering free, local, and hands‑on creative activities in every city, town, and village across the country. From art, music, theatre, dance and coding to circus skills, animation and more, Cruinniú na nÓg celebrates the limitless creative potential of Ireland’s youth.  This year Cruinniú na nÓg takes place on Saturday 6 June.

More information can be found at Cruinniú na nÓg 2026 - Cavan County Libraries

Explore and Wonder is a Cruinniú na nÓg event which is a gentle, sensory-friendly creative day designed especially for children with additional needs and their families.

Explore and Wonder offers a range of creative workshops including printing, bush craft, circus skills, messy play and much more. Children and young people can enjoy a welcoming, inclusive environment where they can explore, express, and discover creativity at their own pace. Capacity is limited, booking is required for some activities in advance, some on the day and some are drop in.  

This event is a collaboration between Creative Monaghan and Creative Cavan and is part of   Cruinniú na nÓg - funded through Creative Ireland: Shared Island.

Please like our page Creative Cavan and share these events widely with anyone who may be interested.


Cruinniú na nÓg is a day of free creativity for children and young people on Saturday 6 June 2026 with events throughout Ireland.

Explore and Wonder is a Cruinniú na nÓg event which is a gentle, sensory-friendly creative day designed especially for children with additional needs and their families.

Explore and Wonder offers a range of creative workshops including printing, bush craft, circus skills, messy play and much more. Children and young people can enjoy a welcoming, inclusive environment where they can explore, express, and discover creativity at their own pace.

Highlights

DiscoWave: A sensory-friendly disco for autistic and neurodivergent children and their families. With gentle lighting, playful beach-themed props, a live DJ and dancer, it offers a calm, welcoming space where families can join in at their own pace.

Sensory SongTales: A gentle music session for children with complex needs and their families.

Marvellous Marbling:  Explore the colourful and sensory process of marbling.

Mark Making Mural: A collaborative canvas where everyone is encouraged to contribute. Participants are invited to explore at their own pace, whether that’s making bold marks, soft patterns, or simply enjoying the sensory experience of materials and colour.

Date: Saturday 6 June 2026 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm

Where : Arts Arena, Share Discovery Village. 221 Lisnaskea Road, Lisnaskea, Co.Fermanagh, BT92 0JZ

Ages: 2-18 for children with additional needs and their caregiver/family.



32- Your Council Day 2026

We are pleased to announce that Your Council Day 2026 will take place on Friday, 26 June.

Your Council Day is the national campaign coordinated by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), supported by Ireland’s 31 local authorities, to highlight, promote and celebrate the work of local government and its positive impact on communities across the country. The Day aims to increase awareness and understanding of the wide range of services delivered by county and city councils, and the vital role they play in everyday life.

This year’s theme, Supporting Communities Every Day, reflects the breadth of work undertaken by local authorities — from essential everyday services delivered behind the scenes, to supporting communities, shaping places for the future, nurturing cultural and tourism activity, and enabling local democracy.

We would encourage you to take the opportunity to mark Your Council Day by showcasing your work with local authorities and the positive outcomes achieved through this collaboration. Your participation will help to highlight the collective impact of local government and the partners who contribute to supporting communities nationwide.

We would encourage you, where appropriate, to:

  • Share content on your social media channels to mark the Day

  • Highlight initiatives, partnerships or projects delivered in collaboration with local authorities

  • Use the campaign hashtags #YourCouncilDay and #DoLáSaChomhairle to join and support the national conversation

A Your Council Day promo video will be made available to support your communications in the lead-up to the Day.

Your Council Day is an opportunity to positively promote the work of local authorities and the many organisations and individuals who work alongside them. Dedicated staff are integral to this work, and, together, local government has a meaningful and positive impact on communities across Ireland every day.



33-  Make It Clay in Swanlinbar







34- Save the Date: Cavan Community Summer Conference June 27th





35- See Her Elected

Join See Her Elected and Women For Election for a talk by one of the world's foremost thought leaders on #MoreWomen in politics, Mona Lena Krook, Distinguished Professor of Political Science at Rutgers University.


The event, 'Elect Women for A Change' will take place on Wednesday 10th June from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland, Dublin.

If you can't make it in person, then we'd love if you could join us for the event online.

Mona Lena Krook's talk will be followed by a discussion, led by journalist Kathy Sheridan, on the challenges and opportunities to reach gender parity in Irish local, national and European politics, with:

  • Grace O'Sullivan, former MEP,

  • Senator Alison Comyn, Chair of the Oireachtas Women's Caucus,

  • Councillor Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council, and

  • Councillor Emer Kelly, Roscommon County Council.

The event is being held in association with the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland and is part of a series of engagements by Mona Krook in Ireland, supported by UCC, TCD and the Chr. Michelson Institute, Norway.


The SHE team would love to see you there!



36- Campa Samhraidh 2026





37-Hedgehog Conservation Ireland Webinar



Hedgehog Conservation Ireland (HCI) launched in February 2026 to create a Conservation Strategy for the Hedgehogs of Ireland.


The response has been amazing - and to keep momentum, we run regular live webinars ensuring our Hedgehog Heroes are kept up to date and connected together.


We're inviting you to join us for our next get-together:


Monday 8th June, 7.00 - 8.00 pm



Webinar agenda:


Welcome and overview of progress to date


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Taking action on the

Great Big All-Ireland Hedgehog Count


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Hedgehog Rescue and Rehabilitation

Guest presenter:

Bev Truss RVN APVN (Wildlife) from The Hogsprickle

dedicated hedgehog hospital and wildlife rescue


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Open discussion with Q&A


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Close


Visit our website - hedgehogsireland.com


 
 
 

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