PICTURES | County Longford Public Participation Network: Ten years connecting communities

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Barbara Heslin, Director of Services, Longford County Council
“Over the last 10 years Longford County Council has collaborated closely with the PPN to support communities. Our new Corporate Plan sets out a vision of an ambitious county providing opportunities for all. It recognises the importance of community and has done so by highlighting people as one of the central themes. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO

“Government has recognised the importance of community development through the introduction of new initiatives through the Local Authorities. Over the past 10 years we have witnessed new programmes through our libraries and community development sections.

“These have included Healthy Ireland, Sláintecare Healthy Communities, Local Community Safety Partnerships, Sports Partnership, Creative Ireland, Age Friendly, Cruinniú na nÓg and many others. These programmes and initiatives have created connections and relationships which support communities. They assisted us in dealing with challenges such as Covid-19 and our response to the Ukrainian crisis. 

“I would encourage more community groups to get involved with the PPN. We also need to encourage people to get involved with community groups and volunteering. Time and time again, we hear of community groups struggling to get people to help with activities, projects, fundraising, and committee membership.   

“At the end of the day it comes down to people and people willing to engage with and support each other.”