Kilkenny PPN Hits 500 Members – A Powerful Voice for Local Communities!
Kilkenny Public Participation Network (PPN) is delighted to announce a significant milestone of over 500 community, environmental, and social inclusion groups are now registered with the network. This achievement highlights the growing commitment of local groups to actively shape policies and decisions that impact life across Kilkenny.
Kilkenny PPN serves as a vital link between Kilkenny County Council and community groups. Through the network, members can nominate and elect representatives to key decision-making committees, ensuring that community voices influence areas such as social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and local development.
Cathaoirleach Mary Hilda Cavanagh congratulated the Kilkenny PPN with this marvellous achievement and commented:
“The PPN plays a vital role in bringing our community together. It’s support, coordination, and encouragement empower local groups to make a real difference. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated and growing network guiding community development.”
Shinith Ak, member of the Kilkenny PPN Secretariat mentioned: “Reaching over 500 registered groups is a significant milestone for Kilkenny PPN and reflects the strength, diversity, and commitment of communities across the county to engage in local decision-making. The PPN plays a vital role in ensuring that diverse community voices are heard, valued, and represented in policies that shape a more inclusive and connected Kilkenny.”
Kilkenny PPN Coordinator, Bortha Woudsma added: “Joining Kilkenny Public Participation Network is a fantastic way for voluntary groups to have a voice in local decision-making including housing, transport, climate action, social services and community safety. As a member, you’ll also gain access to funding opportunities, training programs, and collaborative projects—helping your group grow and make a real impact.”
Kilkenny PPN continues to make a meaningful impact through a range of initiatives. In the recent months, PPN members played a key role in shaping the Social Inclusion Plan 2026–2029, ensuring that the voices of diverse communities and people are reflected in county policy. In addition, member groups actively contributed to the Kilkenny County Heritage Strategy, helping to influence priorities around conservation and cultural heritage.
To build stronger, more resilient community organisations, Kilkenny PPN also delivered a series of capacity-building workshops focused on governance, funding applications, and advocacy and in collaboration with other groups supported new communities and promoted inclusion across the county.
Through a partnership with Equal Ireland, members were recently invited to apply for a scholarship to pursue a degree in Business, Social Enterprise, and Community Development fostering education, leadership, and community contribution and the Autumn/Winter Plenary and Networking event in Thomastown brought members together to share experiences, celebrate achievements, and strengthen connections.
Community groups and organisations across Kilkenny are invited to join Kilkenny PPN and become part of a powerful voice for local communities. Register today at www.kilkennyppn.ie, email , or call (056) 7794255 for more information.
