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Friday 28 August 2026

Hi {!Contact.FirstName}  ,

Happy Friday! As we wrap up another week, we're excited to share the latest Public Participation Network updates and community news with you.

A great opportunity has come up for those who are interested to represent the PPN Social Inclusion Pillar on the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC). If anyone you know anyone from your group, please share the information and nomination form. Please note that only groups who are registered under the PPN Social Inclusion Pillar can nominate a candidate. 

Registration is open for Lets Team Up to Clean Up - 25-27 September 2026. Open to schools, sports clubs, community groups and residents' associations, this initiative encourages everyone to play their part in keeping Kilkenny litter-free. Registrations received before Monday 7th September will be entered into a draw to win €250.

If any group would like to showcase themselves in our PPN newsletter, please get in touch with us — we’d love to feature you! Or if you'd like to include your groups upcoming news and events in a future newsletter, please email the details to ppnkilkenny@kilkennycoco.ie

Thank you to everyone who attended our Connecting Communities Gathering in Urlingford last week.

It was fantastic to see so many local groups and organisations come together to network, share ideas, and build new connections. We were delighted to hear about the fantastic work taking place across the area. We look forward to continuing these conversations and strengthening community connections across Kilkenny.

Kilkenny PPN are seeking nominations from Kilkenny PPN member groups under the Social Inclusion Pillar for a representative to sit on the Kilkenny Local Community Development Committee (LCDC).

PPN representatives play a vital role on behalf of the Public Participation Network. They are elected by PPN member groups to sit on Kilkenny City & County Council boards and committees, as well as other non-local authority bodies. Their role is simple but powerful: to ensure the voice of the local community is heard and represented in decision-making.

Deadline for nominations: Friday 11th September 2026 by 5:00pm.

For full details:Call for nominations to Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) – Social Inclusion Seat – Kilkenny PPN

Join communities across Kilkenny for the Let's Team Up to Clean Up Together for Kilkenny campaign on 25-27 September 2026. Open to schools, sports clubs, community groups and residents' associations, this initiative encourages everyone to play their part in keeping Kilkenny litter-free.

All registered groups receive a free litter-picking pack, and registrations received before Monday 7th September will be entered into a draw to win €250.

Register today: Registration is open now | cleanup.kilkenny.ie

National Services Day returns to Kilkenny Castle on Saturday, 5th September from 12pm to 4pm. This free family event brings together frontline statutory and voluntary services from across the region, showcasing their vehicles, equipment and the vital work they do in our communities. Visitors can meet representatives from a wide range of emergency and public services, including the Air Corps, Defence Forces, Gardaí, Fire Service, Ambulance Service and many more. A highlight of the day will be a live Fire Service demonstration at 2.30pm, featuring a dramatic vehicle rescue exercise

Homegrown.ie is looking for landowners and organisations in Kilkenny with a suitable piece of spare land that could become a growing plot for someone nearby. They would love to hear from farmers, parishes, clubs, community organisations, institutions and private landowners with room for a proper growing plot, roughly allotment-sized or larger. Suitable spaces might include an accessible field edge, walled garden, old polytunnel or unused organisational ground with reasonable sunlight and safe access. Exact addresses stay private and landowners decide whether to proceed. Homegrown is currently gauging interest and working through the practical, legal and insurance details before any introductions proceed. Homegrown.ie a self-funded commercial pilot, and if the pilot succeeds it may evolve into a fuller marketplace with potential listing or membership fees.

Learn More: https://homegrown.ie/ 

Ireland’s fifth Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Week is taking place this year from 19 to 27 September. It forms part of the wider European Sustainable Development Week (ESDW), which runs from 18 September to 8 October 2026!

Last year, ESDW saw almost 3,860 activities taking place across 39 countries, with almost 100 events taking place in Ireland.

The SDGs belong to everyone and SDG Week is open to all – individuals, groups, schools and colleges, businesses and institutions.

To take part, organise an event – however big or small – or highlight an activity or project that promotes sustainable development and join the annual week of action for the SDGs.

1. Start now!

Think about how you could promote sustainable development and plan an activity, project or event to take place during SDG Week

2. Register

Upload your idea on the ESDW website: www.esdn.eu/esdw

3. Act!

Organise and promote your initiative during ESDW – 18 September to 8 October 2026!

For more information on sustainable development, SDG Week and ideas for taking part, please see www.gov.ie/SDGs.

Ages: 13-16 years 

Location: Butler Gallery 

Workshop Dates: 17 Oct, 21 Nov, 12 Dec

 

Ages: 8-12 years 

Location: St.Canice's Neighbourhood Hall

Workshop Dates: 31 Oct, 7 & 14 Nov, 5 & 12 Dec 

Book your Kilkenny space HERE!

 

Online Workshops- 

 If you can't make it in person

Book your ONLINE space here!

Looking for a way to get involved in your community? The Kilkenny Volunteer Centre has a range of exciting opportunities currently available across the county. Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to share a specialist skill, volunteering is a great way to make a positive impact while meeting new people and strengthening your local community.

Current volunteer roles include:

No Name Club is hosting an online Volunteer Information & Recruitment Webinar on Thursday, 3rd September at 7:30pm – 8:30pm. No Name Clubs bring young people aged 15–18 together in a safe and lively environment

Williams Syndrome Ireland is holding an Activity Weekend for members aged 18+ in Kilkenny and they are looking for volunteers to join their members  on Saturday 19th September from 10am - 6pm.

Droichead Family Resource Centre Callan is seeking committed and enthusiastic individuals to join their Voluntary Board of Management

Ionad Lachtain - St Lachtains Church, Museum and Arts Centre in Freshford, Co. Kilkenny is seeking friendly volunteers to help welcome visitors to thier unique community space.

14th Kilkenny Bennettsbridge Scout Group - Looking for enthusiastic, community-minded volunteers to join their team as Scout Section Leaders

Thomastown Credit Union - Looking for Volunteer Directors who are interested in helping shape the future of this community-led organisation

Mount Carmel Care Home - Seeking volunteers to bring companionship, creativity and new experiences to residents. Opportunities include Arts & Crafts, Music, Therapeutic Gardening, and Cycling Without Age Trishaw Pilot.

Find these and many more opportunities through the Kilkenny Volunteer Centre at www.i-vol.ie 

SOS are facilitating a FREE Age Friendly Weekly Walking Programme  every Thursday from 11:00am to 12:00 noon at the Watershed Track, Kilkenny. This is a fantastic opportunity for older adults to enjoy gentle physical activity, meet new people, and stay connected in a friendly and welcoming environment.  The Watershed is an ideal safe space for older persons to meet with KK1 bus stop outside, ample parking, toilet facilities and the Cupan Cafe to enjoy a well deserved cuppa afterwards. The track provides a great surface without incline for people to stroll along at their leisure, including wheelchairs and rollator users. SOS are not advertising a start and finish time but an hour that people can come and do a lap or two or maybe more within the time frame. 

Organisations working to promote social inclusion and support individuals with unmet literacy, numeracy and digital literacy needs are being invited to contribute to the mid-term review of Ireland's Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy.

Launched in 2021, Adult Literacy for Life is a 10-year whole-of-government and society strategy aimed at improving adult literacy, numeracy and digital literacy in Ireland. As the strategy has now reached the midpoint of its implementation, an independent review is now underway to assess the progress made and help shape the next phase of delivery.

To participate in the consultation join an online focus group discussion or by submit feedback through an online survey. 

Learn More: Solas | Learning Works | Stakeholders Invited to Contribute to Mid-Term Review of Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Strategy

The draft strategy has been developed to establish a coordinated approach to community safety, recognising that creating safer communities requires collaboration between public services, local communities and a range of partners. The strategy has been informed by consultation and engagement with communities and stakeholders, and feedback is now being sought on the draft proposals.

Find out more about the consultation and how to provide feedback through the Department of Justice website: National Strategy for the Improving of Community Safety

Closing date for submission: 11th September 2026, 5pm

Details of Kilkenny County Council Public Consultations can be found on https://consult.kilkenny.ie . To receive email notifications of upcoming consultations, you can subscribe on https://consult.kilkenny.ie/en/browse .

The following Public Consultation is currently open for submissions:

1. Draft County Kilkenny Road Traffic Special Speed Limit Bye-Laws 2026

Kilkenny County Council gives notice of its intention to make Special Speed Limit Bye-Laws in respect of certain roads within the administrative area of County Kilkenny.

Deadline for Submissions: Tuesday 1st September 2026, 4:00pm

 

2. Section 38: Bus Stop Enhancement Programme Callan/Thomastown Municipal District

Kilkenny County Council gives notice of its intention to carry out bus stop improvement works in the Callan/Thomastown Municipal District at the following Bus Stops: Thomastown Market Street, Thomastown Low Street, Callan, Green Street (Northbound) and Callan Green Street (Southbound)

Deadline for Submissions: Friday 4th September, 4:00pm

3. CPO documents Graiguenamanagh – Tinnahinch Flood Relief Scheme

Kilkenny County Council have submitted a Compulsory Purchase Order, under the Housing Act, to An Coimisiun Pleanala relating to the proposal to develop a flood relief scheme for Graiguenamanagh and Tinnahinch.

Deadline for Submissions: Wednesday 16th September 2026

 

4. Section 38 for Bohercrussia St, Freshford Speed Reduction 2026 Municipal District of Castlecomer

Kilkenny County Council gives notice of its intention to carry out works in Bohercrussia St, Freshford of installation of 3 round-top ramps and advance warning Signage and Road markings.

Deadline for submissions: Monday 28th September 2026, 4:00pm

 

5. Section 38 Tullaroan Speed Reduction 2026 Castlecomer MD

Kilkenny County Council gives notice of its intention to carry out works in Tullaroan Village of installation of 4 round-top ramps, advance warning signage and road markings.

Deadline for submissions: Monday 28th September 2026, 4:00pm

 

6. Section 38 for Togher Crescent, Urlingford Speed Reduction 2026 Municipal District of Castlecomer

Kilkenny County Council gives notice of its intention to carry out works in Togher Crescent, Urlingford of installation of 2 round-top ramps and road markings

Deadline for submissions: Monday 28th September 2026, 4:00pm

 

7. Part 8 Planning Application for Residential Development at Sr Anthony's, 52 Lord Edward St, The Butts, Kilkenny

The proposed development of a total of 10no. residential units consisting of 4no. 1-bedroom apartments and 1no. 3-bedroom house at the front of the site in a 2-storey block, all with own door access, and 4no. single storey 2-bedroom units and 1no. single storey 1-bedroom unit at the rear of the site. The existing buildings on the site will be demolished. Works also include a new vehicular access, car parking, public open space, community garden and all associated site development works.

Deadline for Submissions: Friday 2nd October 2026, 5:00pm

 

The Arts in Education Portal team is seeking submissions for presentations and creative workshops for the National Portal Day which will take place at TU Dublin School of Art and Design on Saturday 7 November 2026.
The theme for the 2026 Portal National Day is The Future is Creative: Why arts and creativity in education matter more than ever.

They invite artists, creative practitioners, teachers, educators, academics and arts in education professionals to share presentations or workshops. We are particularly interested in projects and practices that explore:

 - Arts in education in the age of AI and emerging technologies
-  Arts based approaches to connect with nature, climate action and sustainability

Learn More: Call for Presentations and Workshops: National Portal Day 2026 | News | Arts in Education

Deadline for submissions: Wednesday 16th September 2026

The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment is inviting communities, organisations and individuals to take part in the public consultation on the National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap 2026–2028.

The Roadmap sets out actions to help reduce food waste in Ireland, supporting more sustainable practices while addressing the environmental, social and economic impacts of wasted food. The consultation is seeking views on the proposed priorities and actions that will help shape Ireland's approach to food waste prevention over the coming years. Everyone with an interest in sustainability, food systems and community action is encouraged to have their say.

Submissions Close: 4th September 2026

Learn and make a submission: Public Consultation on the National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap 2026-2028

Are you passionate about creating a more sustainable future for your community? Apply today for the Community Climate Innovation Programme, delivered by Kilkenny County Council in partnership with Trinity College Dublin and Munster Technological University. 

A limited number of places remain on the Certificate of Participation pathway. Participants on this pathway will not be required to complete exams or continuous assessments. The programme runs from September to December 2026 and is fully funded.

Deadline for Expressions of Interest: Tuesday 1st September 2026

Learn More and Apply: Sept- Dec 2026 Community-based Climate Innovation Course Application

For any queries, please email breda.maher@kilkennycoco.ie 

A lecture examining the life and family of Lady Jane Francesca Elgee Wilde, presented by Vivian Lambert and Myles Miller. Organised by the Kilkenny Archaeological Society. The lecture is taking place on 9th September 2026, 7:30 at Rothe House, Kilkenny

Ossory Youth is offering a FREE one-day Barista and Food Safety Course for young people aged 17 to 24 living in Urlingford and Johnstown.

Whether you're interested in working in the hospitality or food industry, or simply want to learn how to make a great coffee, this practical and engaging course is a fantastic opportunity. Participants will gain valuable skills, improve their employability, and earn experience that will look great on a CV.

Date: Wednesday, 9th September, 9:30am to 3:30pm
Venue: St Mary's Hall, Johnstown

Places are limited, so booking is essential.

Recovery College South East September - December Workshop Timetable is now available. All courses and workshops at the Recovery College South East are for everyone and are free. The courses and workshops are co-produced and co-delivered by those who have lived experience in partnership with professional expertise.

Kilkenny In Person Workshop Timetable: recovery_college_timetable__kilkenny__sept_-_dec_26__open__28.07.26.pdf

Online Workshops Timetable: recovery_college_timetable__all_areas__open_online_workshops__sept_-_dec_2026__28.07.26.pdf

The Kilkenny Public Participation Network has partnered with Carmichael to provide a selection of free training programmes for PPN Members only.

Topics range from Good Governance, Board / Committee Management, Technical Skills, and much more. Many of these courses are available to attend completely online.

The Carmichael team have launched their Autumn/Winter 2026 Scheduled Training Programme. Below are some upcoming workshops 

This training is available on a first come first served basis. We ask that you do not book unless you are certain that you can attend.

To register, please complete the registration form here

This online-only, self-paced training programme has been developed in collaboration with Social Justice Ireland and is  open for registration. The training is provided on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development.

The programme covers the following topics: Introduction to the PPNs (2 Modules), Local Government Budget, PPNs and Local Government, Effective Participation in Consultations, Effective Facilitation, Strategic Planning, Measuring Outcomes and Impacts.

Who Can Participate? The training is open to the following PPN stakeholders: PPN Workers, PPN Secretariat Members, PPN Representatives, PPN Member Groups, Local Authority Staff, Elected Councillors.

To register, please complete the registration form at the following link:

Register for Training | Social Justice Ireland

Community organisations and clubs nationwide can apply for the MACE Community Grants, with 50 grants of €1,000 available to support projects that make a positive and lasting difference locally.

To apply, organisations simply need to provide their details and explain, in 150 words or less, why they deserve funding and how it would benefit their local community.

 

Closing Date for Applications: Wednesday 10th September at 12:00 midnight

Learn More:  MACE Community Grants - Mace

Arts & Disability Ireland’s Arts and Disability Connect funding scheme is open to support artists with disabilities in developing their creative practice.

The scheme offers funding opportunities for Mentoring, Training, New Work, and Research and Reflection awards, supporting artists to develop their ideas, build skills, connect with arts professionals and explore new creative opportunities.

Closing Date for Applications: Tuesday 29th September 

Learn More:  Arts and Disability Connect funding | Artists | Arts & Disability Ireland

The Huawei Solar Sports Scheme grant programme is designed to support and invest in grassroots sports clubs across the community. 
The Scheme will award five (5) cash grants of €10,000 each, totaling €50,000 in available funding, to eligible sports clubs that demonstrate a clear need for financial support and the capacity to deliver meaningful benefit to their members and the wider community.

Closing Date for Applications: Monday 31st August 2026

Learn More:  https://solar.huawei.com/ie/events/huawei-solar-sports-scheme/terms

Three key built heritage schemes open for  applications:

Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) - provides support of between €2,500 and €50,000 to assist with the repair and conservation of historic buildings and structures. Closing date for application is 5pm Friday 30th October 2026.

Historic Thatch Buildings (HTB) - to protect the heritage value of historic thatched roof buildings across Ireland, including dwellings and other structures. Closing date for application is 5pm Friday 30th October 2026.

Historic Structures Fund (HSF) – offers grants from €50,000 up to €200,000, which are up to 50% of eligible costs. For projects with strong built heritage conservation objectives that can also demonstrate a clear public or community benefit. 

Closing Date for Applications: 5pm Friday 27th November 2026

Learn More: Grants - Kilkenny County Council

Any nonprofit organisation in Ireland, whether a charity, company, sports club or community association, can enter its annual report and financial statements into the Awards for free and it will receive individual feedback to help improve future annual reports.

Deadline for entries: 10th September 2026

Learn More: The Good Governance Awards

The Benefact Group Movement for Good programme provides an opportunity for supporters to help direct the Group’s profits to good causes. Through a simple two minute nomination, individuals can nominate charities, Community Interest Companies (CICs), or non-profit organisations for inclusion in funding draws.

Each nomination gives an organisation the chance to receive a donation that could make a meaningful difference to its work and the communities it serves.

Learn More: Movement for Good - Nominate a charity for an award.

The SEAI Community Grant scheme supports the upgrade of homes, community buildings and businesses across Ireland to become more energy efficient and reduce costs. Access capital funding, partnerships and technical support.

For more information, visit SEAI website: Community grants and funding | SEAI

Access Europe provides a valuable resource for organisations, communities and individuals interested in exploring EU funding opportunities.

The Access Europe website brings together information on a wide range of EU funding schemes, helping users discover available programmes, understand eligibility requirements and find opportunities that can support their projects and ambitions.

For more information, visit Open EU Funds - Access Europe

Explore Open EU Funding Opportunities

Check out the incredible variety of events available through the Kilkenny Libraries.

From Book Clubs, to Arts & Crafts Groups, to Playgroups for Children, and more, there's always something interesting and fun coming up at your Local Library.

Visit Kilkenny Library | What's On to see the upcoming schedule of events.

The Kilkenny PPN Secretariat (Volunteer Board of Management) is comprised of:

Carmel Kenny & Shinith Ak (Community & Voluntary), Carina Burrows & Fiona O'Neill (Social Inclusion), Martin Rochford (Environment), Liz Dermody (Castlecomer MD), and Mary Whelan (Callan/Thomastown MD)

Apply to join the Kilkenny PPN Secretariat

The Kilkenny PPN is funded and supported by:

Kilkenny Public Participation Network

Kilkenny PPN, 3^rd Floor, Patrick's Court, Patrick's Street, Kilkenny

Telephone: 056-779-4255  Email: ppnkilkenny@kilkennycoco.ie  Website: www.kilkennyppn.ie

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