Successful networking event for Roscommon community groups

Roscommon’s Public Participation Network (PPN) recently hosted a highly successful county plenary meeting and networking event for community groups in the Abbey Hotel.

The network is facilitated and co-funded by Roscommon County Council in association with the Department of Rural & Community Development and the PPN Secretariat. The theme of the event was 'Strengthening Communities and Building Resilience'.

There was a large number of community groups in attendance who were informed about various local funding opportunities, supports and services. The importance of community engagement, building resilience and strategic development were just some of the topics highlighted during the panel discussion.

In addition to traditional plenary formalities, the event also included a special presentation to community storm response hubs to acknowledge and recognise their exceptional commitment, solidarity, and support to the people of county Roscommon in the aftermath of the recent Storm Eówyn.

Representatives of the PPN Secretariat, Roscommon County Council and Roscommon LEADER Partnership were also present to outline supports and initiatives available to local communities.

Director of Services with Roscommon County Council Chris Flynn outlined how the PPN plays a vital role in connecting communities with local authorities, fostering engagement, and ensuring that the public's voice is heard in local decision-making processes.

Mr Flynn also commented on how the PPN supports the formulation of key policies through the nomination of community representatives onto local decision-making structures, including Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) and the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC).

Mr Flynn highlighted the many community projects developed across the county, which he said would not materialise without the support of local communities. Chris commended volunteers on their unwavering commitment to making the county a better place to live, work and invest in. He also reflected on the distribution of various community funding thus far in 2025, via schemes including the Tidy Towns and amenity grants.

Other speakers on the night included Aisling Dunne and Pat Flanagan from the Community Department in Roscommon County Council, who spoke on topics surrounding community resilience and safety; Martina Earley, CEO with Roscommon LEADER Partnership, who outlined community employment initiatives and Niall Croghan, RPPN Secretariat, who briefed attendees on the latest PPN developments and the network’s strategic ambitions.

The event concluded with a highly informative showcase of local supports and services.