Local groups discuss Building Brighter Futures at Kilkenny PPN networking event

Kilkenny Public Participation Network (PPN) hosted its spring/summer Plenary and Networking Event recently, bringing together community groups, organisations, and local stakeholders from across Kilkenny.

Under the theme Building Brighter Futures Together, the event offered an engaging platform for sharing information, strengthening connections, and promoting collaboration, with a strong focus on advancing social inclusion in Kilkenny.

The evening was officially opened by the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Mary Hilda Cavanagh, who welcomed attendees and acknowledged the vital role played by community and voluntary groups.

A series of informative presentations took place on the night. Martin Rochford, Chair of the Kilkenny PPN Secretariat, provided an update on PPN activities. Soraya Power of the ICE Group shared insights on promoting diversity and inclusion, while Lianne Kelly from Kilkenny County Council’s Community Section outlined funding opportunities available to support local initiatives. Attendees also heard from Sinéad O’Callaghan, Chair of Community Radio Kilkenny City, who gave an update on the radio station’s work and activities.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the PPN Social Inclusion Plan, presented by Social Inclusion Representative Angela Hayes. The plan introduces a structured and practical approach to ensuring that social inclusion issues identified within communities can be more effectively progressed through local governance structures. The Plan has been developed to strengthen how systemic issues affecting communities experiencing disadvantage or exclusion are identified, evidenced and brought into local authority decision-making processes.

The evening also featured vibrant live performances. The Kilkenny Global Dance Club entertained attendees and even invited participation, while Equal Vibes delivered an engaging performance of singing and music. Guests also had the opportunity to view the Kilkenny LEADER Partnership’s “Faces & Stories” intercultural photo exhibition, celebrating the diversity of communities across the county.

Kilkenny PPN Coordinator, Bortha Woudsma said the event provided "valuable opportunities for participating groups to network, exchange ideas, and showcase their work, helping to build connections that will support strong, inclusive communities across Kilkenny."

Kilkenny PPN expressed its thanks to all speakers, performers, and attendees who contributed to making the event such a success, reinforcing the importance of working together to support thriving, inclusive communities.

Kilkenny PPN continues to grow from strength to strength, with 515 registered member groups representing a diverse range of sectors, including community development, residents’ associations, sport, arts, heritage, and environmental initiatives. Community and voluntary groups across County Kilkenny are encouraged to join this expanding network, with free membership offering valuable benefits such as access to funding information and training opportunities, the chance to influence local policies and decision-making, opportunities for networking and collaboration, and regular updates on events, consultations, and supports.

Groups can register online at www.kilkennyppn.ie or by contacting Kilkenny PPN office directly by emailing [email protected].