Pride in our Community 2026 – Muintir na Tíre

 

It's that time of year again to be thinking about planning your community project for 2026.If you are thinking about entering the Pride in our Community Competition in 2026 You can fill in the form using the link below before Jun 30th 2026.

Pride in Our Community 2026 Entry Form – Fill in form it just takes a minute or two.

Please feel free to share this email with other groups in your area or beyond. (open to community groups in Cork County or City only) To find out more about this Competition go to https://www.muintircork.com/pride-in-our-community.

Keep Well, Keep Movin Health Festival 15th April Silversprings

 

Keep Well, Keep Movin’: A Health Festival Empowering Older Adults in Cork

Staying active, informed, and connected is more important than ever as we grow older and this April, an exciting event in Cork is bringing all of that together in one place. 

The Keep Well, Keep Movin’ Health Festival is set to be a vibrant, informative, and welcoming day dedicated entirely to supporting the health and wellbeing of older adults.

A Day Focused on Health and Wellbeing

Taking place on Wednesday, 15th April 2026, from 10:00am to 3:00pm, this free event promises a wealth of resources, guidance, and community connection. Hosted with the support of the Cork North and East Community Work Department, HSE Southwest, the festival is designed to address the real and evolving health needs of older people in the region.

What to Expect

The festival offers a rich mix of presentations and interactive opportunities, all tailored specifically for older adults:

• Informative Presentations
  Experts will deliver talks covering key health topics relevant to later life—helping attendees better understand how to maintain physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
• 25+ Information Stands
  A wide range of services will be represented, including Cork Cultural Companions, HSE supports, statutory services, and community and voluntary organisations. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore what’s available locally, ask questions, and discover supports you may not have known about.
• Community Connection
  Beyond the information, the event is a chance to meet others, share experiences, and feel part of a supportive community focused on healthy living.

Why Events Like This Matter

As we age, access to clear, reliable health information becomes essential. Events like Keep Well, Keep Movin’ not only provide that information but also empower individuals to take control of their wellbeing. They bridge the gap between services and the people who need them, making support more accessible and approachable.

Equally important is the social aspect. Staying connected plays a huge role in overall health, and gatherings like this foster a sense of belonging and encouragement.

How to Attend

While admission is completely free, booking is essential to secure your place.

To register:

• 📞 Call: 086 4668484
• 📧 Email: Nicola.Lucey2@hse.ie

Final Thoughts

The KeepWell, Keep Movin’ Health Festival is a celebration of healthy ageing, community support, and proactive wellbeing. Whether you’re looking for advice, resources, or simply a positive day out, this festival is well worth attending.

Mark your calendar, book your spot, and take a step toward staying well—and keep movin’.

Midleton GAA Healthy Club - Positive Mental Health Talk (Power Up Your Mind)

 

Join us for an uplifting evening dedicated to nurturing mental well-being. Open to everyone (not suitable for under 14s) this event features a panel of insightful speakers who will explore the foundations of positive mental health. Topics include building resilience, the impact of nutrition on mental strength, and strategies for navigating life’s challenges.

Venue: Midleton GAA Club. Eircode: P25TD73

Date & Time: Wednesday 15th April, 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Age Group: Open to ages 14+

Speakers on the night are:

• Dr. Ant Kiernan – Senior Clinical Psychologist
• Jen O’ Callaghan – Nutritional Therapist & Health Coach
• Bríd Stack – Former All Ireland Winning Cork Ladies Footballer

Date & Time

Wed, 15/04/2026 - 19:00 to
Wed, 15/04/2026 - 21:00

Price

Free

2026 CLÁR Measure 1 Scheme Outline and Application Form

CLÁR 2026 has been launched by The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary TD. Please find the link to the Press Release: Media Release: Minister Calleary launches CLÁR 2026 programme - Cork County PPN 

 

The Local Authority is responsible for the administration of Measure 1: Developing Community Facilities & Amenities applications which will be accepted on a prioritised basis. The Measure 1 Scheme Outline, application form, and municipal offices contact details are available at CLÁR (Ceantair Laga Árd-Riachtanais) Scheme | Cork County Council.

 

*Points to note*

·        Complete project applications should be submitted to the relevant Municipal Districts Office.

·        Complete project applications must be submitted on or before Friday 29^th May 2026.  Incomplete applications should be avoided and will be returned.

·        After evaluation of the projects, the Community, Tourism & Rural Development directorate will submit the top 16 projects (2 of which must be Gaeltacht areas) for approval to the Department.

 

For your information, please find attached:

• CLÁR County Map Cork - https://padlet.com/ppncorkcoco/cork-county-ppn-padlet-trroleenakwu6432/wish/E1P8aXpDJqrNawA9 

 

• 2026 CLÁR Measure 1 Scheme Outline - https://padlet.com/ppncorkcoco/cork-county-ppn-padlet-trroleenakwu6432/wish/R7dXadNJ305mZ6bl

 

• 2026 CLÁR Measure 1 Application Form - https://padlet.com/ppncorkcoco/cork-county-ppn-padlet-trroleenakwu6432/wish/lDK1ZRLxnq5OaJ9z

 

Measure 2 and 3 Scheme Outlines seek applications directly to the Department to assist groups and community organisations. Please feel free to bring these Measures to the attention of all relevant groups and community organisations in your area. The scheme outlines and application forms are available at CLÁR Measures

For all queries on Measures 2 and 3, please contact CLAR@drcd.gov.ie

Best regards,

Noelle Nally | PPN Support & Development Worker | Cork County PPN
Community, Tourism & Rural Development
Cork County Council | Cork | T12 R2NC Ireland
T (021) 4285265 | M +353 860597563
Noelle.Nally@corkcoco.ie
Cork County PPN | Public Participation Network

Cork County PPN Spring Plenary

 

 

We’re highlighting a mix of community initiatives and events — from the Community Paint Grant

 Scheme supporting local projects, to creative opportunities like the East Cork Songwritin Festival,

 alongside ongoing Dementia Awareness Workshops and pop-up volunteer supports.

As always, there are plenty of ways to get involved — including Linkage Groups, voluntary vacancies, 

and opportunities to engage in local decision-making and policy development.

On the funding side, this week features the launch of the CLÁR 2026 programme, supporting 

community facilities and rural development projects, along with other ongoing supports for community

 groups. Finally, we’re sharing several important consultations and surveys, including a new initiative

 exploring how the community sector can engage with AI, as well as opportunities to contribute to

 national health and volunteering policy.Another full and engaging edition — with lots of ways to connect,

 contribute, and support communities across Cork County.

Newsletter 27.03.2026 - Cork County PPN 


Best regards,

Noelle Nally | PPN Support & Development Worker | Cork County PPN
Community, Tourism & Rural Development
Cork County Council | Cork | T12 R2NC Ireland
T (021) 4285265 | M +353 860597563
Noelle.Nally@corkcoco.ie
Cork County PPN | Public Participation Network

County Mayor’s Charity Gala 2026

 

'Summer by the Sea'

Saturday 2nd May | Walter Raleigh Hotel, Youghal, Co. Cork.

Join County Mayor Cllr Mary Linehan Foley for a very special evening at the Walter Raleigh Hotel, Youghal, on Saturday 2nd May 2026 at 6pm.

This year’s County Mayor’s Charity Gala brings a fresh “Summer by the Sea” theme, inspired by Youghal’s beautiful coastal setting and promising a relaxed, fun-filled night of great food, music and celebration.

Guests can enjoy:

• Drinks reception on arrival
• A delicious three-course meal showcasing local produce
• Live entertainment and dancing
• A charity raffle with fantastic prizes

All proceeds from the evening will go in support of three incredible charities:

RNLI Youghal, Down Syndrome Cork and Cancer Connect, Youghal

Step into the spirit of the night — from flowing dresses to your brightest summer shirts, bring a little seaside style and your own summer breeze.

RNLI Youghal
RNLI Youghal is a volunteer‑run lifeboat station providing a 24‑hour emergency search and rescue service along the East Cork coastline.
Part of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, it saves lives at sea and promotes water safety in the local community.
The station operates an inshore Atlantic 85 lifeboat crewed by highly trained volunteers.

Down Syndrome Cork

Down Syndrome Cork is a volunteer‑led charity supporting people with Down syndrome and their families across Cork.
It provides education, therapies, social programmes and lifelong supports to help members reach their full potential.
The organisation works to promote inclusion, independence and quality of life at every stage of life.

Cancer Connect, Youghal
Cancer Connect provides a free, volunteer‑driven transport service for people travelling from East Cork to Cork hospitals for cancer treatment.
Based in Youghal, it supports patients attending radiotherapy, chemotherapy and related appointments.
The service reduces stress and isolation by ensuring safe, reliable and compassionate transport.

Click the 'Book Now link to book.

Date & Time

Sat, 02/05/2026 - 18:00 to
Sat, 02/05/2026 - 23:00

Location

Walter Raleigh Hotel, Youghal, Co. Cork. P36 RX22

Price

€100

Book Now

Website

County Cork Commercial Vacancy Survey Now Open

County Cork Commercial Vacancy Survey 

Now Open 
 

Cork County Council has launched a survey for the owners of commercial town and village centre 

properties to understand what capacity there is in the towns and villages of County Cork to convert

 ‘over the shop’ or ‘back of the shop’ spaces for residential use. 

The survey can be accessed online at  www.corkcoco.ie or by contacting Cork County Council’s Town 

RegenerationOffice at townregenerationoffice@corkcoco.ie or 021 4285317 / 021 4285397

 to request a hard copy of the survey for completion. 

Why?

Encouraging people to live in our towns and villages is key to village vitality and town regeneration.

In recognition of this, recent Government announcements indicate expanded financial supports in 2026

 from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, to bring underutilised space above or

 behind existing commercial premises into residential use.  A grant of up to €95,000 will be available

 where one residential unit iscreated, with an additional €20,000 where two residential units are

 delivered and a further €20,000 where three or more units are provided.  In addition, up to €5,000

 will be available to cover expert advice on the conversion of these properties for residential use,

 bringing the total potential support package to €140,000.

  

Survey objectives:

• gauge the capacity of our towns and villages to support additional residential accommodation 
• in our built heritage.
• understand the willingness of commercial property owners to participate in the conversion
•  scheme and optimise the use of vacant or under-utilised properties.

 

When?

The County Cork Commercial Vacancy Survey is now open and will remain open for responses until

 Thursday April 30^th 2026. 

Best regards,

Noelle Nally | PPN Support & Development Worker | Cork County PPN
Community, Tourism & Rural Development
Cork County Council | Cork | T12 R2NC Ireland
T (021) 4285265 | M +353 860597563
Noelle.Nally@corkcoco.ie
Cork County PPN | Public Participation Network

The Lord Mayor of Cork urges Primary Schools in the City to enter Cork School Garden Competition for 2026

 

The Lord Mayor of Cork urges Primary Schools in the City to enter Cork School Garden Competition for 2026

 

LtR.  Una Leader, Scientist for Environmental Awareness, Green Schools and Circular Economy Cork City Council. The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy and Cathy Davis and Bethany Elvins  of St. Mary’s Special School Rochestown at the launch of the Cork School Garden Competition in Atkins GardenWorld

Atkins Garden World was the venue as the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Feargal Dennehy launched the annual School Garden competition for Primary Schools in Cork City.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy emphasized the significance of school and community gardens in promoting Cork City Council’s biodiversity initiatives. He remarked, “These initiatives play a crucial role in our aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions within the next decade. Cork City Council takes pride in collaborating with Muintir na Tire, Cork County Council, and Atkins Garden World on this creative project, and I encourage all primary schools in the city to get involved. Participating in this competition allows young people to develop a passion for horticulture and explore various facets of biodiversity, providing an invaluable learning experience that can spark a lifelong journey in gardening.”

Cork City Council was also represented by Una Leader, Scientist for Environmental Awareness, Green Schools and Circular Economy

 Cork County Federation of Muintir na Tire was represented by Sean Holland, Pauline O'Dwyer, Sean Finn, Finbar Motherway, Helen Kennedy and Denis Kelly, while Atkins Garden World was represented by Manager Cornelia Creedon.

St. Mary’s Special School Rochestown, winners of the Best School Garden in Cork City in 2025, were represented by Cathy Davis and pupil Bethany Elvins 

Cathy Davis and Bethany Elvins  of St. Mary’s Special School Rochestown at the launch of the Cork School Garden Competition in Atkins GardenWorld

For full competition details and Entry form go to https://www.muintircork.com/cork-school-gardens

Cork School Garden Competition Launched by Mayor of County Of Cork

The Mayor Of the County of Cork urges

Primary Schools to enter Cork School

Garden Competition for 2026

Atkins Garden World was the venue as the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary

Linehan Foley launched of the annual School Garden competition for Primary Schools

in County Cork.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley said "Activities that

can help children to learn the importance of nature while staying active are crucial for

health and wellbeing". Since its establishment in 2012, the Muintir na Tire School

Garden Competition has inspired thousands of students across Cork County to

embrace the outdoors and Cork County Council is very proud to have supported the

competition each year. I urge all schools around the county to consider signing up this

year, whether a new entrant or a long-established participant. We want to see students

from every town and village involved in Cork.

County Council was represented by Ger Barry, Director of Services Planning and

Environment, Cork County Council, Aida Goold, Senior Executive Officer Cork

County Council, Michelle Greene and Katherine Corkery from the Environment

Directorate and Conor Nelligan Heritage Officer Cork County Council. The Cork

County Federation of Muintir na Tire was represented by Sean Holland, Pauline O

Dwyer, Sean Finn, Finbar Motherway, Helen Kennedy and Denis Kelly, while

Atkins Garden World was represented by Manager Cornelia Creedon.

Coachford National School, winners of the Best School Garden in Cork County in

2025, were represented by pupils Seán Murray and Mia Malinovska.

Photos DSC_5296.JPG and DSC _5293.JPG

The Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley with pupils of Coachford

National School Seán Murray and Mia Malinovska at the launch of the Cork School

Garden Competition in Atkins GardenWorld.

Photo DSC_5291.JPG

Pupils of Coachford National School Seán Murray and Mia Malinovska at the launch

of the Cork School Garden Competition in Atkins GardenWorld.

Photo DSC_5320.JPG

L-R Ger Barry, Director of Services Planning and Environment, Cork County

Council, Aida Goold, Senior Executive Officer Cork County Council, Sean Murray

Coachford National School, the Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr. Mary Linehan

Foley, Mia Malinovska Coachford National School, Katherine Corkery Planning &

Environment Directorate Cork County Council, Conor Nelligan Heritage Officer

Cork County Council at the launch of the Cork School Garden Competition in Atkins

GardenWorld.

For full competition details and Entry form go to https://www.muintircork.com/cork-school-gardens

Cork County Council Announces the County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026

 

Cork County Council has announced that applications are now open for the County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026. Launched in 2021, the scheme highlights County Cork’s rich heritage and acknowledges the many community and voluntary organisations that work tirelessly to protect, celebrate, and share this heritage with both residents and visitors.

Funded by Cork County Council and the Heritage Council, the scheme aims to empower heritage groups across the county as they carry out initiatives that advance the goals of the County Cork Heritage Plan. In 2025, more than 30 organisations received funding under the scheme, enabling a wide range of projects including Heritage Week projects, video documentaries, conservation plans, exhibitions, archives, natural heritage projects, and heritage publications.

This year, a broad selection of heritage-related proposals can be submitted for consideration, including conservation projects that contribute positively to the county’s built heritage.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley welcomed the return of the scheme saying, ‘Since its launch in 2021, the Heritage Grant Scheme has supported more than 125 projects, with over €175,000 of funding allocated. This level of investment reflects the strong commitment to preserving Cork’s heritage and the outstanding dedication shown by local volunteers and heritage organisations. By backing community‑led projects, we are helping to safeguard the county’s history and traditions so they can be appreciated and passed on to future generations.’

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell added, The County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme reflects the Council’s dedication to preserving local heritage and sense of place. These projects play an important role in helping communities to celebrate their heritage while strengthening local identity and pride. Cork County Council appreciates the ongoing support from the Heritage Council and we look forward to seeing the diverse range of project proposals put forward this year.’

For further details of the County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026, including application forms, please click the link below.

The closing date for proposals and application forms is 17:00 on Thursday 16th April 2026, which can be made online, emailed to corkheritage@corkcoco.ie, or sent by post to ‘County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026’, Cork County Council, Floor 3, County Hall, Cork. For further information email corkheritage@corkcoco.ie or phone 021 4276891. 

 

County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026

Click here for more information

Upcoming parenting course Fermoy

 Dates have been rescheduled for the Understanding your baby, 6 week parenting course in Fermoy. The course is based on the Solihull approach and is suitable for parents and infants 0-6 months. Parents can book directly by contacting me. I have attached a jpg also for anyone who would be willing to share on a social media platform if you have access for work. Spaces are available. I would really appreciate your support in promoting this initiative. If there are any parents you think may benefit but would be nervous to attend, I am happy to meet them beforehand.

 

 

Any questions you know where I am.

 

 

Kind Regards,

Orla Geary

Public Health Nurse

 

Please note I do not work on Thursdays

 

Orla Geary BSc Nursing (General), PGdip Public Health Nursing, RGN, RM, PHN, Msc Perinatal Mental Health

Public Health Nurse | North Cork | Health Service Executive | Fermoy Primary Care Centre | Mill Island | Fermoy | Cork | Mob. 087-9394479 orla.geary@hse.ie

 

 

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL REQUIRES District Supervisor - Kanturk/Mallow MD

 

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL

REQUIRES

• District Supervisor - Kanturk/Mallow MD 

           

 Closing date for the receipt of completed application forms is 4pm on Thursday, 9th April 2026.

Further details and application forms for the above posts are available on the careers’ section of the website: www.corkcoco.ie; or by e-mailing: recruitment@corkcoco.ie

 

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

Mallow Library Launches Mallow Reads 2026, a Year‑Long Celebration of Books, Community, and the Joy of Reading

 

Mallow Library is delighted to announce the launch of “Mallow Reads 2026”, a year‑long reading campaign designed to inspire people of all ages to rediscover the joy, comfort, and creativity that books bring.

The campaign starts with a special emphasis on encouraging parents to share the library experience with their children. It aims to foster lifelong reading by encouraging parents to explore the library alongside their children, creating shared memories that bridge the gap between generations.

A symbolic “One Million Minutes” reading challenge will run throughout the year as a motivational marker of the town’s collective engagement, while the central focus remains on nurturing a culture of reading for pleasure.

Mallow’s year‑long community reading initiative unfolds like a shared storybook, with each season forming a chapter in the town’s collective reading journey. Spring opens with a preschool family launch and a town‑wide Reading Pledge, while Summer celebrates cultural diversity through a Multicultural Fun Day and multilingual storytelling. Autumn highlights intergenerational connection, engaging the Active Retirement community, integrating dementia‑awareness activities, and showcasing local creativity during Culture Night. Winter closes the final chapter with an author visit and a community‑curated Town Anthology, reflecting a year of shared stories, inclusion, and creativity across Mallow.

Mallow Library invites all residents to join in this town‑wide celebration of reading throughout 2026. Event details and updates will be available in Mallow library and on social media.
 

Pride in our Community 2026 – Muintir na Tíre

 

It's that time of year again to be thinking about planning your community project for 2026.If you are thinking about entering the Pride in our Community Competition in 2026 You can fill in the form using the link below before Jun 30th 2026.

Pride in Our Community 2026 Entry Form – Fill in form it just takes a minute or two.

Please feel free to share this email with other groups in your area or beyond. (open to community groups in Cork County or City only) To find out more about this Competition go to https://www.muintircork.com/pride-in-our-community.

Free Dementia Awareness Workshops Mallow - April 1 2026

 You and your organisation are cordially invited to the Friends of ASI Mallow Dementia Awareness Workshops which take place on Wednesday, 1st April 2026.

To date, the group has successfully hosted several dementia awareness workshops, reaching over 100 individuals from a variety of community and business organisations.
Whether you’re an individual, business owner, sports club member, community leader / group member, or community development organisation these workshops offer practical insights on how to better support those living with dementia in Mallow and North Cork.

Workshop Topics:

• Understanding Dementia
• Communicating Effectively
• Creating a Dementia Inclusive Community

Participants proudly display the ‘Friends of ASI Dementia Inclusive Community’ sticker — a visible sign of support, understanding, and inclusion for people living with dementia. Be sure to look out for these stickers around town and know that these businesses and groups are making a real difference.
We would greatly appreciate your support in creating dementia inclusive communities throughout North Cork.  I have attached a flyer that gives more details on the workshop and a poster that can be used for sharing on social media. 
Reserve your place today and be part of creating a more inclusive Mallow. Contact Laura Curtin, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Community Engagement Officer on 087 3736496 or email laura.curtin@alzheimer.ie .

Best regards,

Noelle Nally | PPN Support & Development Worker | Cork County PPN
Community, Tourism & Rural Development
Cork County Council | Cork | T12 R2NC Ireland
T (021) 4285265 | M +353 860597563
Noelle.Nally@corkcoco.ie
Cork County PPN | Public Participation Network