Annual Report 2019

ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Connected Strategies for Sustainable Communities

KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Company Overview SICAP Chairman’s Address 1 SICAP Infographic 19 KLP Board of Directors 2 SICAP Overview 20 In Memory 3 Celebrating Culture 21 KLP Membership 4 Castlecomer: Celebrating Community 22 BNS LEADER 5 - 6 Youth Outreach 23 A Word from the CEO 7 Ferrybank: Turning on the Lights 24 KLP Staff 8 -9 Castlcomer: It’s who you are! 25

LEADER Company Initiatives and Projects

LEADER Infographic 10 Other Programmes and Initiatives 26 New Partnerships: Tomar Trust 11 Tús 27 Lingaun Valley 12 Supporting the Farming Community 28 The “Big Chapel” Production 13 Traveller Primary Health Care 29 Crisis Cafe for Kilkenny 14 Get Outdoors with Trail Kilkenny 30 Segway Sights 15 Other 31 Butterfly ValleyGlamping 16 Beotanics 17 Kilkenny Food Vision 18 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 CHAIRMANS’S ADDRESS

Chairman’s Address

Denis Drennan Chairman of the KLP Board of Directors

2019 saw Kilkenny LEADER Partnership (KLP) enter its second decade as an integrated €2.3 million in total towards KLP-funded projects. In this report, we give some further details development company. The previous year with the activity that surrounded the 10th anniversary on Tomar Trusts story and vision. But for here, I’d just like to record my own thanks to Dr Tom was a landmark one but there was no sense of 2019 having a sense of being ‘after the Lord Cavanagh and all the trust for their faith in KLP and generosity towards the communities of Mayor’s Show’. Indeed, 2019 saw the intensification of KLP’s work across its various programmes Kilkenny. and initiatives. The Board and staff are looking confidently and excitedly to and beyond 2020. As is traditional at this stage, but genuinely heart-felt I’d like to thank the staff, Evaluation In 2019 the company entered into a number of strategically important partnerships. These Committee, Members and my fellow Directors for their hard work and support over the year. included projects with LEADER local action groups (LAGs) and other EU states on transport, It was a year we lost one of our stalwarts: Mary Egan (RIP). Mary is remembered in this report. cycling and tourism. KLP also partnered with local development companies in other parts of She was a member of the Evaluation Committee for many years and was a wise and shrewd the country notably with our neighbours in Laois, Tipperary, Offaly and Carlow but also further participant in that crucial role. Mary was both a massive intellect and on-the-ground worker afield, on environment, community services and recreation. for her community in Tullaghought village and Windgap parish over decades. Few of us are indispensable, but in Mary’s case we can safely use the Gaelic saying; “ní fheicfimid a leithéid The Social Inclusion section of the company built of the success of the ‘Town Social Animators’ arís.” initiative with the County Council’s Local Enterprise Office in continuing support of the broad- based work in Castlecomer and Graiguenamanagh. The results of these supports can be seen On a happier note as we go to print, the general election of February 2020 saw the election in both the aesthetics of the towns and the confident quality of initiatives emerging from these of another stalwart of KLP: Malcolm Noonan as a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Carlow Kilkenny settlements. The growth and continued high quality results of the KickStart programme, an constituency. Malcolm has been a long-time supporter of community-led local development employment placement partnership co-funded with the State Street, is worthy of mention here and of KLP specifically. With his commitment to sustainability, Malcom was a natural ally in for its positive impact of all the participants. We thank State Street again for their continued KLP’s several ambitious initiatives on transport, environment, energy, etc. We wish him the very support. best in his onerous new role and know he will remain a supporter of bottom-up development.

A major addition to our partnership in the past year was the agreement made with the Tomar Trust to co-fund a portfolio of identified strategic community-led projects across the county between 2020 and 2024. It is a massive boost to those communities and will assist KLP’s ambitions for the county in the current and future round of programmes. Tomar have committed to provide Denis Drennan KLP Chairman of the Board of Directors

1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

board of directors board composition

board of directors 150 Company (15 members) Other nominating Members from parties from social community, voluntary partners, statutory, & small business elected members, civil sectors - nominating 5 society etc - nominating Denis Drennan Martha Bolger Pat McAuley Richie O’Brien directors 8 directors Chairman/Social Partner Statutory Representative Community Representative Statutory Representative

Subcommittees 5 X hr Subcommittee leader project Evaluation Committee 5 X finance Subcommittee

5 X management Marion Acreman John Burke Kevin Mahon Mags Whelan Subcommittee Chamber of Commerce Community Representative Kilkenny Tourism Community Representative

social inclusion advisory rural development forum advisory forum 20 x majority comprised 20 x majority comprised of KLP members & other of KLP members & other nominating bodies nominating bodies

CLLR. Eamon Aylward Suzanne Campion Ger Mullally Rory Williams youth & community broadband transport tourism Local Authority Statutory Representative Social Partner Small Business under 25 & rural action action action employment towns group group group action action group group Project Project Project focused focused focused Project Project and time focused and time and time focused defined. 7/9 and time and time defined. 7/9 defined. 7/9 defined. 7/9 defined. 7/9 members members from members members members from from from from advisory advisory forums advisory advisory advisory forums forums forums forums Janet Beck Liz Dermody CLLR Malcom Noonan Community Representative Social Partner Local Authority

2 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 IN MEMORY

In Memory and Appreciation of Mary Egan

Mary Egan who died on 12th May 2019 was a may not have always been the key person in community stalwart not just for her home the photograph for the inevitable awards that village of Tullahought or her parish of Windgap followed from the excellent work but was but of communities and voluntary groups usually the person that everyone looked to for throughout Kilkenny and everywhere. Mary direction. sat on the KLP Evaluation Committee for a number of years up to her passing and in that LEADER in the county inevitably encountered role her keen intelligence, judgement and Mary in its early years first through BNS LEADER impartiality was always evident. KLP staff and from 1991 and as it merged into KLP from Board members relied on those qualities and 2009. Mary returned to third level education her hard-earned understanding of what it took in her middle years and naturally excelled. This to manage a community project in decision equipped her with the tools to be even more making. ambitious in her planning and involvement. She remained a huge supporter of the concept of Mary was always a ‘community activist’ long community-led development and of KLP from before that phrase was commonplace. But the there on. As was mentioned among colleagues breadth of her interest and involvement was at her wake in admiring her community legacy, not typical and it covered a broad spectrum “There’s only one Mary Egan!” of the community and voluntary sector from the social inclusion, cultural, heritage, As they go through the difficult process of social enterprise (tourism, etc.), sporting. accustoming to her passing, we record our She was a proud Kilkenny hurling fan in that best wishes to her husband Paddy who was beautiful border territory on the Lingaun always a great support behind Mary, to her son Valley. Whatever the project or activity in Tom and daughters Kathleen, Teresa and Trish. the community Mary was always there in the Ní fheicfimid a leithéid arís. ‘engine house’ driving and organising it. She

3 KLP MEMBERSHIP KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Join Us: KLP Membership

If your group or business is interested in becoming a KLP member, contact the main KLP office and we’ll tell you what’s involved.

Kilkenny LEADER Partnership (KLP) is a membership-based organisation. It is governed by a Board of fifteen Directors who oversee strategy and make grant aid decisions. It is supported by professional staff that are the presence on the ground of the Company. KLP is ultimately owned by its approximate 150 Members. These Members are primarily community groups and small Kilkenny businesses.

Every three years the members get the opportunity to elect five of their number to sit on the renewal of the KLP Board for that period. 2017 was the start of a new cycle and KLP will be organising a June election and board nominations/co-options for the other ten Directors. The new Board will be formed at the annual general meeting (AGM) in June 2020.

Membership of KLP is open to all active and open membership community and voluntary groups that operate in Kilkenny. Also all small food businesses: essentially organisations with less than five hundred employees are eligible. There is a very modest annual fee. If your group or business is interested in becoming a KLP member, contact the main KLP office and we will explain what’s involved.

Board membership is about more than just elections. KLP hope it will be part of a process whereby the Company can inform its members about opportunities and challenges that are emerging from policy development and enthuse them to grasp the potential and see off the difficulties.

4 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 BNS LEADER

BNS LEADER Completes a Job Well Done…

On Tuesday, 3rd February an organisation that had a major role for their community. The pilot programme from 1991 to 1993 in local development in Kilkenny and indeed the wider region, required private match funding from local stakeholders to held its last meeting before dissolution. Barrow Nore Suir secure the LEADER contract and all-important funds. In our Rural Development widely known as BNS LEADER, or just BNS region, Avonmore Creameries (the predecessor of Glanbia) wound up as a non-profit company after almost thirty years donated the private funding necessary and mentored the of existence. But BNS’s story is not just of extended existence foundation of BNS. It established a connection that determined but a huge achievement to in that period. the initial operation area of BNS, which mirrored the Avonmore ‘milk region’ centred in Kilkenny and Carlow but including a BNS was, along with Kilkenny Community Action Network large part of South Tipperary, South Laois and South Kildare. and Castlecomer District Community Development (CDCD) 1 the three ‘foundation companies’ whose staff and functions BNS quickly established a reputation for innovation, merged as part of the government directed ‘cohesion process’ cooperation and responsible administration of LEADER. While to form our own Kilkenny LEADER Partnership (KLP) in late the initial BNS region reduced over the intervening decades to 2008. But while KLP moved on to its new integrated mission- its final Kilkenny and east Tipperary base, the LEADER company and KCAN and CDCD dissolved soon after the merger, BNS made a lasting impression across all parts of the region. In continued to exist and operate, if at a less intense rate, for the Kilkenny BNS supported many strategically impactful projects- next decade. That was an interesting period but the previous large and small. They are frankly too many to mention here. two decades are an even better story. Even in its latter years, from its own remaining private funds, BNS kindly supported important projects prompted by KLP BNS was founded as one of the initial sixteen pioneering that lacked other sources of private funding. LEADER ‘local action groups’ (LAGs) in Ireland. Its purpose was to pilot the European Union’s radical proposal to give local In a final act of strategic cooperation and generosity, BNS stakeholders, separate to central and local government control, gifted its remaining resources to KLP on condition that they be the power and resources to develop their rural communities focused on projects that advance the LEADER pioneer’s ethos. and small businesses. Ireland and Greece were the selected KLP thanks Chairman Tommy Cooke, and the rest of the BNS laboratories to test the new concept. Board of Director for their trust on the future and inspiration from the past. KLP intends to honour their founder’s legacy EU Agriculture Commissioner Ray McSharry, made an into the future. announcement about the novel partnerships of business and community stakeholders formed in many parts of Ireland. 2 These LAGs would be set up to secure the valuable funding

Pictured: 1. BNS Final Meeting 03.02.2020 2. River Valley Food Circle Group 1996 - 1997 3. Bertie Ahern at the launch of the Savour Food Guide in 2005 4. Minister O’Cuiv at Trails Launch 5. Angela Campion and Christine Walshe at info event 2006 6. Pride in Place Event 7. Castlcomer Lakes 8. Tommy Cooke at Carrick Marina Launch 9. BNS staff at Savour Event 10. Harry Everard with former Minister O’Cuiv at the Launch of the Trails 11. BNS staff and Board members 12. Tullaghought Biodiversity area launch 5 BNS LEADER KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

3 7 8

4 5 9 12

2019 saw the transfer of Deenside Early Years: KLP’s childcare facility in Castlecomer, transfer into A Word from the CEO a separate independent company. ‘Deenside’ has emerged from a period of difficulty to become a high standard and sustainable business. In accordance with its overall ethos of ‘bottom-up’ Declan Rice development KLP believes that it is important that local people have the most input to their Chief of Executive local services and this drove the establishment of the independent company. However, KLP will continue to support the new company in its growth and development as long as necessary. KLP Partnership, Network & Cooperation is happy to be able to transfer the childcare service in good order. We wish to thank the manager and staff of the service for their hard work and dedication over the last few years.

Partnership and cooperation was always KLP’s theme but in particular in the past year. Across Inevitably, the past year was not without downsides. The level of administrative burden and the company’s activities, KLP has forged alliances and partnerships locally in Ireland and further complexity imposed by national operating rules on project beneficiaries and ‘local action groups’ afield in Europe. The development timescale on such initiatives is by its nature extended but KLP (LAGs)- as LEADER approval boards are officially called remains a real issue of concern, that KLP is assured of their strategic importance in the long-term for County Kilkenny. KLP’s partnership and its colleagues must manage. For instance, this has a clear chilling effect on communities with the Tomar Trust is referenced in more detail elsewhere but I would like to state that the and businesses considering innovative projects. However, there is no fear that funding will not agreement with Tomar is a hugely important and valuable continuance of KLP’s long-term be allocated-or spent before the programme closes. KLP is also confident on the quality of the commitment to partnership and collaboration. projects it has approved and their strategic impact at local and regional level.

In 2019 KLP once again performed well across its range of programmes. Both ‘pillar’ programmes- Indeed, the issue of concern to KLP’s Board and management now is the news emerging from LEADER and SICAP had good years in their own terms and in terms of their integrated support the EU in recent months that the start of the next LEADER programme will be delayed by over benefit of KLP’s overall mission to “improve the quality of life of the communities and small a year! The question now is- if there is such a protracted delay, how are communities and small businesses of County Kilkenny”. businesses to manage in that extended interregnum? KLP suggests that a national programme of short duration be introduced to bridge the gap between the official EU funded LEADER In raw figures on LEADER by the end of 2019, the Company had approved 59.68% of its available programmes. budget to projects; paid out 29.44% of that amount approved equivalent to 17.57% of the total budget. This is in line with the approval, expenditure profile of previous LEADER programmes. As we go to press the very serious COVID-19 pandemic is causing significant disruption across KLP is confident that it will have approved the remainder of its available LEADER project budget the globe, Kilkenny and Ireland is not spared. KLP is active through its social inclusion section by the end of 2020 and have paid it out by the official close of the programme. (SICAP, TÚS, RSS, Traveller Primary Healthcare) in pivoting in its service to directly assist in the immediate challenge of protecting individuals and vulnerable communities. As ever we are The Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme (SICAP) team continued to perform working in partnership with colleague organisations. LEADER and the Rural Recreation sections very strongly with excellent results in meeting targets and in adding significant value and depth are continuing to work on projects and initiatives that will support the county’s eventual to the social inclusion and community development goal beyond the basic metrics. These recovery. It is difficult at this stage to estimate the effect and extent of the pandemic on local achievements include the continued operation of the innovative participant placement Kick development. We can safely guess that it will be serious and long-lasting, but recover we must. In Start initiative. The support of our Kilkenny-based State Street International Ireland Limited to that likely context there will be even more reason to support communities and small businesses this project is very much appreciated. to recover and sustain their communities.

KLP’s smaller development programmes such as the Rural Recreation Officer (RRO) programme My thanks to all my colleague staff members; KLP has a great team that supports and challenges on recreational and trail development., the First Start initiative supporting migrants into each other. But particular appreciation to the volunteers on the Board of Directors, Evaluation employment, the Traveller Primary Healthcare programme also achieved their varied targets. Committee and Members without whose trust and backing the staff could not operate to their While the Rural Social Scheme (RSS): providing community-based part-time employment desired level. This year will be the second time that the Membership-based company that KLP to lower income farm families and the TÚS community placement initiative for long-term is now has to organise elections for Directors. KLP proposes to host a series of events to arm unemployed people also maintained and grew their numbers and reach to assist the participants Members to participate in that process- and as importantly to aid the Company in plotting its and the communities involved. course into the next decade. You will be hearing from us on that in due course. 7 KLP Staff KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 klp staff Management Administration SICAP Rural Development Other Programmes & Initiatives

Declan Rice Martin Rafter Bernie Thorpe Joan McGrath Mary Breen Claire Doheny Hannah O’Gorman CEO Assistant CEO & Social Financial Controller Finance Officer Compliance Officer LEADER Administrator LEADER Administrator Inclusion Programmes Manager

Diane Ryan Ljilana Dolenec Miriam Kelly Sharon Stone Kevin Barcoe Alison Iremonger Moira Duggan LEADER Administrator Administration Administration Graphics and Web Design Development Officer Development Officer Communications

Amanda DeBurca Yuvi Basanth Conor Cleere Brian Spratt Mags Morrissey Therese Curran Tom McDonald Development Officer Development Officer Enterprise Officer SICAP Monitoring Development Officer Development Officer New Start

Fergus Horgan Christine Walshe Angela Campion Mairead Rohan Seoirse Butler Harry Everard Declan O’Shea Development Officer Development Officer Development Officer Enterprise Officer Rural Social Scheme Rural Recreation Officer Housing Aid Supervisor

8 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 KLP STAFF

Finbar Phelan David Coughlan Seamus Davis Liam Mooney Mike Redmond Catherine Lennon Bridget Cash Housing Aid Tús Supervisor Tús Supervisor Tús Supervisor Tús Supervisor Traveller Community Traveller Community Health Prg. Coordinator Health

Also: Margaret Mary O’Reilly Traveller Community Health

Eileen Delaney Josie Cash Hannah Kirwan Hannah Carthy Traveller Community Traveller Community Traveller Community Traveller Community Health Health Health Health

KLP Staff

9 LEADER 2019 LEADER (Rural Development Programme) 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

LEADER: RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME LEADER Funding to Kilkenny Communities and Enterprises 2016 - Present €1,236,825.00 + 3.8 M basic services for rural communitities • Support for hard to reach communities, integrated approaches to bridge service gaps & provide employment • Community Access Services €27,249.00 Basic services broadband for rural • Community Broadband communitities €1,207,902.00

enterprise development Broad- • To diversify, strengthen and expand Food and Drink Sector band Enterprise • Encourage the development of social €46,080.00 Development enterprises to enhance local service Rural provision rural towns Towns • To invest in Creative Enterprise Sectors by offering strategic support for creative • To lead and resource a range of integrated initiatives bottom-up development strategies Local • Food & Drink Enterprise and Development Bioiversity/ • Design, creativity and crafts destination Renewable Rural Tourism area €54,147.00 Energy • Community Retail and Basic Services

local biodiversity / renewable energy Rural Water • To raise awareness among rural communities Youth Resources €1,039,317.00 of principles of ecosystem approach for biodiversity rural tourism • Community Biodiversity Promotion Initiative • To encourage and support local community, • To support renewable energy initiatives from area-based initiatives for networking and communities and businesses cooperating • Optimise environmentally sustainable tourism potential of Kilkenny’s waterways & river €217,904.00 heritage • River Valley Development Programme rural youth €450,556.00 • Business and Community-led tourism initiatives • To develop innovative youth-focused social and cultural facilities water resources • Cultural and Social Development Programme • Community Water Resource Education Awareness Programme for Rural Youth 10 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 LEADER 2019

New Partnerships: Tomar Trust

KLP has agreed a very significant co-funding partnership broader community and we are all there to help when we with Tomar Trust that will provide funding from Tomar Trust can.” KLP will be discreetly approaching some of Kilkenny’s towards strategically important local development projects people of means to seek their support for projects in their in Kilkenny. The total value of Tomar’s commitment is communities. over €2.25 million covering the current end of this current LEADER programme and the start of the next round of Tomar is based in Fermoy in north Cork and the Trust’s the rural development programme. The twenty identified straightforward statement makes clear that its “geographic projects are generally large-scale with a ‘6-figure budget’ bias is Munster”, so KLP feels privileged to have secured its and will be delivered between 2020 and 2024. The projects support for its work. As KLP’s Chairperson jested, “Given the will cover all parts of the county with a specific focus on rivalry between Cork and Kilkenny on the hurling field over the smaller towns that can act as hubs of economic and the years, we really appreciate that a staunch Cork patriot social development for their hinterland. Those communities like Tom Cavanagh would agree to support communities will include Callan, Graiguenamanagh, Thomastown, that wear the ‘black & amber’ in opposition- luckily KLP can’t Castlecomer, Piltown/Lingaun Valley and Glenmore/Barrow support hurling teams, so that removed a lot of potential Corridor. tension!”

Denis Drennan, KLP’ Chairperson stated, “We are delighted to Dr Cavanagh who is also the founder and mover of the have such a strategically far-sighted and generous partner behind the hugely successful Irish Business Against Litter in Tomar Trust. This initiative is not just very welcome news League (IBAL) has spoken previously on his keen interest in for KLP’s ambitious plans for the future; it is great news the future of rural Ireland. “The rural nature of the country is for the communities of the county. I’d like to thank Dr Tom an important part of why we are successful. In the future you Cavanagh, the founder of Tomar, the trustees and the wider will see more people moving away from cities to areas where Cavanagh family for their faith in KLP and Kilkenny’s people.” the quality of life might be better and accommodation less expensive. Where community can be more diverse. It’s vital Tomar Trust was founded by Dr Tom Cavanagh and his late then that we support rural towns and villages and keep that wife Marie (the title Tomar comes from a combination of beating heart of Irish society alive.” KLP shares that passion their names, Tom and Marie) in the 1980s and has supported and the cooperation initiative is an exciting partnership to many projects in Tom’s native Cork and also in Waterford prove the potential of communities in Kilkenny. and Clare, where he and Maire have connections. Dr Cavanagh has a very progressive attitude towards those Pre-development and even physical work has already begun who can afford to help their communities. “I think, if you on many of the projects and KLP will be including Tomar are fortunate enough in this life to be given a few breaks, and other co-funders in the promotion and publicity that is you have to help wherever you can. If you don’t, I think attached to these projects. you’re failing in your responsibilities. We are all part of the

11 LEADER 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Bringing History Back to Life in the Lingaun Valley

The Lingaun River Valley, which lies on the Visitors will be able to experience border between Kilkenny and Tipperary the historic locations as they would could be described as one of South have been at the time of their original East’s most spiritually historic locations. construction using augmented reality The region boasts a significant number technology accessible through their of high status heritage sites such as smartphones. Unlike virtual reality the Ahenny, Kilamery and Kilkeiran in which a completely artificial 9th century high cross complexes and environment replaces the virtual one, the Neolithic period Knockroe solar- augmented reality expands the physical aligned passage tombs. These majestic world in your direct view with layers monuments contribute sacred insight of digital information such as sounds, into Irish Middle Age art and have a high graphics and videos. potential for rural tourism. Building on the initial feasibility KLP in partnership with the Lingaun study commissioned by KLP, Valley Tourism, Kilkenny County Council Telecommunications Software & Systems and the equivalent bodies in Tipperary Group (TSSG) and innovative local media have long been committed to developing tech company, Glass Eye Productions the region in line with the Ireland Ancient of Thomastown, the augmented project East brand destination. Work has already has now moved to the implementation started which aims to improve the region stage. Information and communications with branding, signage and marketing. technology research group. TSSG will In 2019, KLP in Cooperation with Pote be developing this visitor experience territorial Quest Charente- Pays du software, illustrating the sites from Cognac France applied for funding to its most interesting perspectives for develop, implement and commission a tourists in search of the historic gems unique visitor experience for the Lingaun Kilkenny has to offer. TSSG’s team River Valley. The cooperation approach of historians, designers and software between Kilkenny and France will provide developers have started initial research significant dual learning ranging from and development for this ‘turn-key’ technology to challenging perspectives visitor experience with hopes of the final and outcomes. product available later on this year.

Picture: Augmented Reality on High Cross

12 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 LEADER 2019

The “Big Chapel” Production

Callan used theatre as a means to build their community and bring a diverse array of people in the area together. Innovative Callan production team, Trasna Productions applied to KLP for funding to support this project which would envelop the history, heritage, literature and creativity of the town and people.

The project began with workshops, events, podcasts and community gatherings which culminated in the large promenade theatre production “The Big Chapel” in the town during the 2019 Kilkenny Arts Festival.

The production provided a great opportunity to celebrate local creative people, allowing their many hidden talents in singing, acting and dance to emerge. “The Big Chapel” is based on Callan’s past and its historical precedent of community division. The project proved to be an enriching experience for those who took part as well as those in the audience. This theatre experience highlighted the diverse cultural resources that exist in Callan today. While inspiring the essence of true community it also encouraged an understanding of the complexity of humanity when it comes to socialisation and communication.

Picture: Scenes from the “ Big Chapel” Production 13 LEADER 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Plans for a Kilkenny Crisis Cafe

Lifelinkk Kilkenny have been model of particular interest is The funded by LEADER to undertake a ‘Safe Haven’ café in Aldershot, on feasibility study into the potential the Surrey and Hampshire border for a ‘Crisis Café’ in Kilkenny. The which opened in 2014 and operates vision is for a community peer-led all year round as a drop in centre for response to those presenting with people who need support. Reports a mental health crisis outside of indicate that this facility has helped doctors hours. reduce mental health hospital admissions by a third in seven The Crisis Café would be months. In the “Safe Haven” cafe , complimentary to existing services national health service workers and provided by the HSE and other other third sector partners are on voluntary and community groups. site to provide mental health crisis Currently out of hours services for support which has helped some those with mental health issues people avoid the need for NHS care are almost non existent in Kilkenny. including A&E altogether. While People in distress or crisis have to Lifelinkk are particularly interested go to the Emergency Department in exploring the Aldershot model, a of St Lukes which may not be an number of other European models ideal scenario for patients in such of best practice should also be distress. It has been reported examined. that many are left feeling more unwell than before due to the The study will provide Lifelinkk circumstances . with recommendations on the next steps to develop the vision for In the UK, a number of community supporting a community response led Crisis Cafés have been to mental health and assess the developed and this study would potential of the Aldershot model of explore those models in detail. One a Crisis Café for Kilkenny.

Picture: Planning meeting with Trish Finnegan, Fergus Horgan (KLP), Susan Fahy of TASK 14 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 LEADER 2019

Segway Sights: A Greener way to Travel!

Segway Sights has given tourists and upon current transport options for visitors to Kilkenny City a truly unique tourists. This tourism enterprise way to explore Kilkenny City. The brings Kilkenny to the forefront of tourism company has incorporated green transport technology, benefiting Segways as the mode of transport, the local environment and community. taking visitors on a fun-filled tour Following an application to KLP, around Kilkenny’s historic attractions funding was granted for the purchase with stories of ancient medieval times of ten Segways, one wheelchair friendly and Irish historical tales. associated equipment and marketing.

Segways are two-wheeled, self- Segway Sights offer premium balancing, battery-powered electric tours. Tours include helmets, safety vehicles that offer an alternative, equipment and training on the basics environmentally way of getting of how to use the segway. Sightseers around. The segway’s speed, range and are guided on fun, historic excursions manoeuvrability ensures riders have an of Kilkenny City’s major attractions: amazing and unforgettable experience. medieval churches, abbeys, castles, The segway can easily transform a jails, gardens, and taverns. They will standard tour into an exhilarating hear stories of witches, monks and experience by allowing the rider to get Norman history and all a Segway tour up close and personal with sights and has to offer. points of interest. For more information on their Proprietors, Michael Timmons & Evan services, visit their website: https:// Kelly identified a gap in the market segwaysights.com/. that represented an opportunity for a new tourist business in Kilkenny. They aimed to capitalise on this opportunity and provide a unique and bespoke tourist service which greatly improved

Picture: Geared up and ready to tour 15 LEADER 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Butterfly Valley Glamping the Perfect Retreat!

Butterfly Valley Glamping is a glamorous This unique camping experience camping enterprise set up by Mary is in the heart of the Thomastown Devy and based in Thomastown’s countryside overlooking the River “Happy Valley”. Butterfly Valley Nore and woods. It is conveniently Glamping was established in 2017 located about two kilometres from with three bell tents, kitchen and Thomastown. A converted wooden toilet facilities. Intending to extend lodge accommodates a fully equipped the business by offering an alternative kitchen/dining/chill-out area and luxury range of camping accommodation, bathroom facilities. An outdoor BBQ Mary approached LEADER for funding and play area reconnect to the outdoors. to help her company reach full At night the campfire area allows potential. The KLP board awarded stargazing and marshmallow toasting funding to construct two timber as the sun goes down. Butterfly Valley pods including associate works and Glamping has received marvellous modification of the existing bathroom reviews, highly recommending it as an facilities to meet disability access ideal breakaway. requirements. Their environmentally friendly eco-pods were handcrafted Mary has a Masters degree in Tourism from sustainable materials and and aims to attract families, couples furnished with handmade beds and and small groups to the area and link upcycled furniture. Customers now with other businesses that provide have the option to spend their time in rural tourism. Butterfly Valley Glamping the glamping site’s newly renovated is located near Trail Kilkenny’s 7km vintage caravan. Grennan Loop Walk. This idyllic stroll goes along the river with lovely views of This upgrade from basic camping Grennan Castle. allows families and outdoor enthusiasts all the fun of camping in For more information, visit their website: the great outdoors while still enjoying https://butterflyvalleyglamping.ie/ the luxury and comforts of home.

Picture: Timber pods at Butterfly Valley Glamping 16 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 LEADER 2019

Beotanics: Leading the way in Niche Crop Production

Award winning, family owned The project involved the design agricultural company, Beotanics development of a new company is on its way to becoming one of website, company pitch presentation Ireland’s leading innovative superfood and other company marketing assets. enterprises. This global Irish company is on a quest to improve human health, The company has forged links with local discover new ways to feed the planet food companies who are interested in and enhance biodiversity by developing the use of natural, minimally processed a range of commercially viable crops plant-based alternatives. Beotanics with unique stable characteristics. has developed an in-depth knowledge As an Agri-Tech company, it provides in the development and provision of biotechnological services to achieve its innovative food ingredients that not role in niche plant development. only meet the demand for plant-based solutions but have the potential to Patrick and Noirin FitzGerald are the provide proven health benefits and innovators behind Beotanics. Patrick alternative food ingredient solutions is renowned internationally for his in- to the food industry both locally and depth knowledge and development internationally. They specialise in a of plant varieties and has won many unique range of crops such as sweet international awards for his extended potatoes, yacon, taro and wasabi. The work in horticulture. Noirin was innovative food ingredients that can previously an administration officer in be extracted from these crops address the government health services and modern healthy eating concerns from has worked at FitzGerald Nurseries athletes to consumers with various for the past fifteen years. Under the special dietary requirements. LEADER funding measure “Enterprise Development”, Beotanics made an For more information on Beotanics, visit application to KLP, to create and their website at: https://beotanics. establish a new brand identity and com/ market that identity effectively.

Picture: Purple sweet potato

17 LEADER 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

The New Kilkenny Food Vision 2020-2025

Kilkenny is bidding to become Ireland’s the publication of “Growing a Local Food strongest local food economy and food Economy - the County Kilkenny Food culture hub to increase the amount of Strategy 2010–2014” which resulted local food and beverages on menus and in the development of the County retail shelves in the county. The new developing its food landscape and vision focuses on growing local food growing its food reputation significantly consumption by 30% over the next since its publication. In 2018, Kilkenny three to five years through the new was recognised at a national level and “Kilkenny Food Vision 2020-2025: Add 3 named “Foodie Destination of the Year Ingredients Strategy”. for 2018”.

The Food Vision I’ve yet to meet The Kilkenny Food Vision development process a wealthy food 2020-2025 was officially 1 involved over seventy local producer. launched in the Autumn stakeholder inputs, initially Everything they of 2019. Special Guest led and supported by a make is pumped and celebrity chef Edward partnership of the Local back into their Hayden said: “Kilkenny Enterprise Office (LEO) business. today is a fabulous food Kilkenny and KLP. It maps destination. We have the pathway for growth amazing food producers, of the local sector in Kilkenny city and culinary tours, restaurants, hotels county and the surrounding hinterland etc all offering a very high standard over the next three to five years. experience. It’s a challenging industry and a challenging time. I’ve yet to meet a In February 2019, KLP and LEO tendered wealthy food producer. Everything they the creation of a food strategy for the make is pumped back into their business. county. Following a tender process, We need to get a cohort of a few good James Burke & Associates (JB&A) were people together who can put their hands appointed to facilitate the research up, shoulders back and chests out to and creation of a food and beverage support one another and make this strategy for County Kilkenny. This food Vision a reality,” strategy builds on the previous work carried out in County Kilkenny following

Picture top: Gathered for the launch were celebrity chef, Edward Hayden along with Business Advisor Catherine Hennessy(LEO), Declan Rice(KLP CEO), Canadian-based food expert, President & CEO of Culinary Tourism Alliance, Rebecca MacKenzie and James Burke(James Burke & Associates). Picture bottom: Food stalls on the parade 18 2 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2019 SICAP 2019

9 405 135% 89 1496 107% 115 Grants given Interventions Performance Grants Interventions Performance Course for Community with Kilkenny Goal: 26 SICAP given for with Goal: 468 Placements Support Communities Performance:35 Individual individuals Performance: 503 2019 Support

grants interventions performance grants interventions performance placements

outcomes of sicap supports individuals/groups that recieved supports from klp sicap 345 285: Unemployed Participating in Training Activities Life Long Learning 250: Migrants

159: Disadvantaged Youth 4 Still in employement 6 months : People living in Disadvantaged Communities after in last work support 124 113: Disengaged from Labour Market

102: Low income workers/ households 299 OUTCOMES 64 Labour Market Enterprise Start up Grants 51: New communtites Supports 42: People with Disabilities

40: Lone Parent 121 11: Travellers 131 Progressed into Self Employment Progressed into Employment New Start Ups 5: Roma 5: Emerging Need LGBT

2: Disadvantaged Women 19 SICAPwww.cklp.ie 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 OVERVIEW 2019

The KLP SICAP team had a very postive Migrant Support Communication skills, reaffirmation year in terms of both performance and KLP has been implementing the Newstart of personal skills and attributes are engagement. project throughout 2018/19. Funding for key modules of the POD and Kickstart this project was obtained from the ESF as programmes. Individuals who participate Collaboration in Communities part of the Programme for Employability, in both programmes show a higher rate of Several initiatives have promoted Inclusion and Learning (PEIL) to enable learning and progression on their individual collaborations between community the delivery of employment supports to journey. groups. Castlecomer, Ferrybank and migrants. To date SICAP has engaged with Graiguenamanagh continue to receive approximately 150 individuals providing Youth Programmes attention through the combined English and IT training, pre-employment Youth Programmes ranged from summer community development and social individual training packages and one to camps, small area youth programmes, enterprise whole town approach. Such one support towards employment. A Civil school completion programmes and a initiatives include the Festival of Cultures, Society & Politics course was a successful number of programmes in partnership with Festival of Lights, Social Enterprise collaboration between SICAP and Failte youth agencies such as Foroige and Ossory Training, networking and learning events. Isteach. This course covered topics such as Youth. Opportunities like this create an open local, national and european government, space for community groups to express citizenship and community. Further Education their respective achievements, challenges KLP believes that lifelong learning and build solidarity among diverse Employment Initiatives encompasses all purposeful learning community groups. KLP’s bespoke Kickstart Programme activities. Nearly 50% of individuals continued in 2019. Some modules were who availed of SICAP support received Men’s Sheds delivered in conjunction with the Newstart educational advice, with 25% registering There are high levels of activity in the (migrant) work placement programme. This into formal educational programmes. Men’s Sheds. SICAP noted growth in the highly successful programme offers short The SICAP offering of individual funding numbers of groups and improved levels of term in-house training and work placement supports and assists individuals along the organisation in each one. Good levels of with local employers. The programme is training or education continuum and was funding has resulted in the development of co-funded by State Street. very successful in 2019. KLP proposes to small enterprises and very good exchange continue this in 2020. across the groups. The Personal Ongoing Development Programme (POD) was delivered four LGBT Traveller Community Support times throughout 2019. The programme The LGBT+ community was identified as The Kilkenny Traveller Community addresses overall personal development, the emerging needs group for a second year Movement continues to receive high levels health and wellbeing. Thirty seven in 2019. This largely international group of of support through SICAP. KLP administers participants registered for the programme, people have been active members of lively the organisation, provides support to of which twenty six participants have LGBT+ communities in other locations and projects and coordinates community progressed into employment, education, have the potential to develop ‘a scene’ in development activity. training or employment schemes. Kilkenny.

20 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 SICAP 2019

Celebrating Culture!

The 2nd Festival of Cultures (FOC) took has two elements: the organizing and place on 30th June drawing an enthusiastic hosting of the actual festival and the crowd of over 500 locals and visitors. preparation of food within a professional Countries were represented from all over environment. The food aspect is funded the world making the festival a great by the Education & Training Board and success again. The Family friendly fun prepared by participants from diverse day gave all the opportunity to sample communities and countries. the best of global cuisine, enjoy drumming and other activities. Based on community feedback and enthusiam, the vision is to host FOC The Festival of Cultures is a grass- annually and further develop social root community initiative led by KLP enterprises such as a Catering Co- under the Social Inclusion Community operative based on the cooperation of the Activation Programme. It consists of a festivals food providers. broad participation of community groups. This enables participants from diverse FOC is a gradual process of developing communities and groups to engage, integration and overcoming social strategize and develop the festival based challenges. on inclusion and equality. The festival

21 SICAP 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Castlecomer: Street Food Festival

In 2019, Castlecomer launched its first- in the Castlecomer Estate Yard comes ever Midsummer and Autumn Street Food alive as locals and visitors gather and the Festivals. The festivals which took place aroma from the stalls fill the yard. During in the lovely Castlecomer estate yard the Autumn Festival, the impressive proved to be a major success bringing Castlecomer Male Choir sang a beautiful locals and visitors to the area together selection of songs. Robert Grace from to celebrate good food and community Graiguenamanagh entertained the crowd spirit. with a selection of his own songs and covers from Leonard Cohen and George The festivals featured a fabulously Ezra. A bonfire later in the evening added diverse range of food and drink from to the atmosphere of the festival. some of Kilkenny’s finest local and artisan producers: The Good Farm Free Due to the success of the Street Food Range Pork, Breagagh Artisan Meats Festival, KLP is planning another year of Fintan White’s Sheep Shack, Olivia’s Raw street food festivals for 2020, comprising Treats, Costellos Brew Co., Highbank of local food and craft stalls, live music Orchards, Goatsbridge Trout Farm and and a traditional bonfire set in the heart The Redwood Café. The atmosphere of the estate yard.

22 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 SICAP 2019

Youth Outreach

Funding from SICAP assisted projects now sit on the Aftercare Steering Group across all the youth activities/ and have links to La Nua residential programmes engaging with team in Kilkenny city to enable them to approximately six hundred and eighty meet the young people and plan their youth in Kilkenny. future prior to them leaving care.

KLP SICAP development officers meet A tender for SICAP Youth programmes new residents of the Aislinn Centre, was put out in January 2019 for Ballyragget (Adolescent Residential the delivery of educational and Addiction Treatment Centre) every 6 developmental supports to children weeks to discuss their progression and young people. The tender closed on and link them in with SICAP equivalent Friday, 1st March. As in previous years, support in their area once leaving the the tender received a great response centre. The What’s Next programme from various agencies & groups across In Castlecomer Community School the county. Nearly all applicants continues to be a success with received some level of support from development officers meeting all SICAP. Leaving Cert Applied students to plan for progression options other than third KLP and the Kilkenny & Carlow Education level once they leave school. The school and Training Board delivered a very also refers other students who are at successful ten week Outdoors Pursuits, risk of leaving school early or those with Hospitality & Introduction to the no planned progression route. Workplace programme at the Outdoor Hub Graiguenamanagh. The programme The KLP SICAP team reached out to proved to be an important learning and TUSLA to address referrals and links life choice event for the group of young between young people who are/have people. been in foster or residential care. KLP

Testimonial Thank you Alison and Moira so much for agreeing to be part of our team yesterday. the feedback was really positive, with many identifying your presentaton as one of the highlights of the day and /or one of their two things to try and incorporate into their practice. We could not do these days if we didnt have people like yourselves to come forward and give it a go. Clearly, it went very well for you and people loved it. Thanks again and look forward to the next one!

R. Byrd (Principal Social Worker ) TUSLA

23 SICAP 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Ferrybank: Turning on the Lights

Ferrybank’s “Switching on the safely to the event. VIP guest Peter Christmas Lights” annual event Glendon from the Brothers of Charity attracted a crowd of over six hundred was given the very important task of locals in 2019 as they gathered to switching on the lights for the third year celebrate the Christmas spirit! in a row! D.J. William from the Brothers of Charity provided the music on the The “Switching on the Ferrybank day and the children from Ferrybank Christmas Lights” event was first sang Christmas Carols to entertain the initiated by the Ferrybank Community crowd. Development Residents Group (FCDRG) in 2016. Under the SICAP programme, KLP as part of their contribution to KLP supports FCDRG and the festival this event supplied crafting materials, with funding to help enhance the event competition prizes, selection boxes, and encourage attendance from groups refreshments, P.A system and brand of all ages and ethnic new outfits for Santa and backgrounds through a People attend Mrs Elf. mutual love of Christmas. for the love of their children The Ferrybank Festival In true community spirit, and to celebrate of Lights has gone from locals came together to the Magic of strength to strength make the event a great Christmas. with a dedicated and and memorable experience enthusiastic community for everyone. Ferrybank as the key driver to its Christian Community Church volunteers success. provided crafting and hosted a colouring competition for the children. KLP Development Officer Therese Local crafters had the opportunity to Curran stated, “It is an event that display and sell their crafts. The hot everyone is made feel welcome, coffee and doughnut stand proved very included regardless of age, religion and popular with parents while they waited cultural background. People attend for Santa. St Mary’s boys schools for the love of their children and to provided tables to facilitate the stands. celebrate the Magic of Christmas. We Councillor Jim Griffin attended the look forward to more events like this event to award prizes as the deputy that unite communities and brings Mayor of Waterford for the evening. people together” The community Garda delivered Santa Pictures: 1. Waiting for Santa in the Ferrybank Library 2. Santa and Mrs Elf 3. Santa Arrives! 24 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 SICAP 2019

Castlecomer: It’s Who You Are!

In November 2019, Castlecomer launched of information, post cards and a map, all the Castlecomer Historical projects in the beautifully designed. Available to buy at a apt setting of the Avalon House Hotel. The number of local outlets. hotel itself is a building steeped in history, constructed in the late 17th Century by the Maire Downey, local historian spoke Garroway Family and later the offices of the elequently about the 1798 rebellion in Estate and Collieries companies. Castlecomer and how the Fassadinin Historical Society have commemorated the This event was funded by the Town and event with the 1798 monument. The centre Village Renewal Scheme operated by KLP and stone of the monument is inscribed with the the Local Enterprise Office. Three projects poem Requiem for the Croppies by Seamus were developed for the launch; historical Heaney (by kind permission). Maire read this information boards, heritage plaques and beautiful and poignant poem and received a historical souvenir packs. well justified round of applause. On behalf of the community she thanked KLP for their Information boards were a collaboration involvement and support of the projects. between six historians and enthusiasts Seamus Walsh (former miner and author Errol Delaney, Maire Downey, Seamus Walsh, of a number of books and poems) gave a Christy Ryan, Margaret O’Neill and Margaret powerful recount of the 100s of years of 1 McGrath. The boards are beautifully mining in Castlecomer. Errol Delaney spoke designed and describe events, buildings and about a painting that has been donated the characters that have shaped the town. to the community by the Wandesforde They were installed in four locations in the family. Declan Rice, (KLP CEO) concluded the town and have been very well received by speeches with a very uplifting comment on the community and visitors. The plaques are community projects and Leader’s support produced in etched zinc and show a sketch for Castlecomer now and into the future. by artist Graham Carew including information about the relevant building. Placing a plaque The launch was a lovely recognition of on a building doesn’t just inform the passer- the immense history of Castlecomer and by of the history of the building, it tells that a testament to the value the community this building and its heritage is valued and places on its history. cared for.

The historical Souvenir packs published locally by Pack Publishing are a lovely gift Pictures to send to friends and family abroad or take 1. Left to right: Mags Morrissey (KLP), Cllr Pat 2 home as a souvenir. Each contains nuggets Fitzpatrick, Kathy Purcell and Seamus Walsh 2. Maire Downey (local historian) 25 Other Programmes and Initiatives 2019

KLP administers a number of supporting programmes to imporve the quality of life for the people and businesses of County Kilkenny. Supports for the Traveller Community continue with the Traveller Health Programme. An exciting new opportunity has become available for a member of the Travelling Community to work with the Traveller Health Project as the programme recruits its first Traveller Community Wellbeing Awareness Worker. The overall aim of this post is to promote positive mental health within the whole Traveller population thus building capacity and reducing stigma. This will in turn support Travellers to talk about Mental Health and reach out for supports when required. The Housing Aid programme was supervised by KLP in 2019, focusing on home repairs, maintenance and adaptation improvement to the homes of eligible clients. The Kilkenny Newstart program is the 1st initiative KLP implemented which specifically targets migrants for employment/ further training and which attempts to equip them with the skills necessary to compete in the jobs market (including improved English language). The Rural Social Scheme(RSS) continues to provide support to low income Kilkenny farmers addressing a number of issues that affect rural farmers today including social exclusion. These programmes are vital links which empower local communities and provide supports to disadvantaged individuals and groups in the County.

NewStart Housing Aid

Childcare Other KLP Traveller Programmes Community & Initiatives Health

Rural Social Scheme Trail Kilkenny TÚS

26 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 OTHER PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES 2019

TÚS

TÚS (which means “beginning”) is a bodies are eligible to apply to KLP to be Community Work Placement Programme included on its list of placement providers. which began in 2011. The programme Applications are judged in the context of is managed by local development potential benefit to communities and companies such as KLP in conjunction with participants. A broad range of project the Department of Social Protection. Its types may be eligible for TÚS including purpose is to help long-term unemployed energy conservation, childcare, retail, people to get back into the workforce by research, tourism, IT support, social care, providing twelve months work experience caretaking, renovation of community, while also contributing certain services recreation and sporting facilities; and training which is of benefit to many community administration, coaching for participants. sporting activities and work in support of cultural and heritage. The DEASP allocates participants on a randomised basis to KLP and eligible job Nine hundred and forty people have seekers can also self-refer. The emphasis acquired placements on the TÚS has been on high-quality placements programme since 2011. Of that number, with skill-sets and attitudes being three hundred and nine participants closely matched with placement roles. have been supported into employment A number of participants have already and one hundred and twenty one been offered full-time employment by participants have gone into full /part-time their host organisations on completion education. One hundred and seventy one of their Tús placement. Other candidates participants were directly supported on to have secured employment independently another CE Scheme after their placement or moved on to specific education on the Tús programme and three hundred programmes. The programme is and thirty nine returned to Social Welfare. supervised by KLP through its four Team All participants received some element Leaders: Mike Redmond, Liam Mooney, of training in 2019 depending on their Seamus Davis and David Coughlan. There individual needs. This training included are one hundred participants currently on health & safety, administration, IT support, placement. childcare, retail, grounds maintenance & driving lessons. All work carried out under the TÚS programme must benefit the community. TÚS has an ongoing collaboration with Only community and voluntary SICAP to provide the best supports to all organisations, charities and sporting participants.

27 OTHER PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Supporting the Farming Community

The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) showcases to participate, applicants must be in receipt the talents of farmers who provide support of a social welfare payment such as Farm to their local communities. This scheme is Assist, Jobseeker Allowance, Widow(er) a key initiative of KLP and the Department pension or Disability Allowance. of Social Welfare to support lower income Kilkenny farmers. RSS Coordinator Seoirse Butler added, “The participants on the RSS have benefited While on this scheme, farmers or close while on the scheme through social members of their families contribute 19.5 interaction, financial benefit and the hours of part-time work to their community connection within the community where in return for an income supplement. The they work. The feeling of accomplishment maximum time limit on the scheme is six that being part of the team had brought to years, assuming eligibility. Contracts are them while being involved in community renewed annually. The RSS has led to the projects and witnessing the benefits to creation and maintenance of a multitude both participants and communities.“ of projects in the fifteen years of the its existence. These projects are situated Kilkenny currently has eighteen participants in communities all over the county. The and recruitment is ongoing. From office development of the popular Trail Kilkenny administration and art tutoring to grounds walking routes is one example of the maintenance, the work carried out is varied valuable work carried our by members of to support the skills of the participant with 1 this scheme. the needs of the community. Trail Kilkenny has a dedicated team of RSS participants Benefits of the scheme extend far beyond working on the development and extra income. Participants gain work maintenance of walking routes throughout experience, learn new skills, network and the county. The team tackles the day-to- gain an overall boost in self-confidence. day challenges of maintaining and creating Some have described the effects of the walking trails for outdoor enthusiasts, scheme as a “new lease of life”. Whether it’s walkers and hikers. the opportunity to meet new people or the financial boost, every participant has his / her own story to share about the ways the RSS has improved their lives. To be eligible

Pictures: 1. Trail Maintenance 2. Art Tutoring 3. Community Gardening 2 3

28 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 OTHER PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES 2019

Traveller Community: Tackling Education and Unemployment

The Kilkenny Traveller Community Movement and in Kilkenny tends to be located in one particular KLP commissioned a report to examine the factors school. It is not clear whether this school has the that contribute to poor educational attainment and resources required to deal with the issues that high levels of unemployment in young Travellers and this brings. across the entire Travelling community in County Kilkenny. Research was funded by the Irish Human The report makes a number of recommendations to Rights & Equality Commission & SICAP. . tackle these issues.

The material gathered in this report is limited to The Kilkenny Traveller Community Movement (KTCM) the Kilkenny region only from a combination of also identified that there was a deficit in its capacity consultations and interviews with the Kilkenny to represent and lobby for an improvement in the traveller community. This process involved indepth lives of the Traveller Community in Kilkenny. With this consultations with a cohort of twenty young in mind KTCM with the support of KLP successfully Travellers, schools, education and training providers applied to the Community Foundation for an Ireland and the providers of employment-based services. Traveller Leadership Grant. It is anticipated that by identifiying the factors that contribute to the challenges faced by young trainers This project reviewed the activities and perception in their learning that new responses/pilot programmes of the KTCM as it currently operates. This involved could be designed to support the management of engaging a consultant to travel to different Traveller these barriers. communities to get their voice on how they would like to KTCM to work and what issues they were concerned The report highlights a range of issues which are about. A five day leadership training program that preventing members of the Traveller community from targeted new leaders was implemented. progressing in the jobs market • Early school leaving among travellers in County They also imtroduced a three year strategic plan Kilkenny continues, for the KTCM which outlines clear aims, objectives • There is anecdotal evidence that low and activities identified by the members. This is a expectations for Travellers in schools are leading straightforward comprehensive plan listing actions to poor attainment levels in both primary and which need to be achieved to alleviate issues post primary education. affecting the Traveller community in Kilkenny. • There is continuing poor literacy levels in the two housing schemes in Kilkenny which is unchanged We feel this is a good start towards implementing a despite supports in place. successful strategy for the improvement of Traveller • At post primary level the Travelling community lives in Kilkenny.

29 OTHER PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES 2019 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019

Get Outdoors with Trail Kilkenny!

The Rural Recreation Office programme is develop and establish a strong and unified funded through the Department of Rural brand identity for Lingaun Valley. To stand & Community Development (DRCD). KLP alone as a distinctive and unique tourism employs a Rural Recreation Officer (RRO), product. This project seeks to help to who works with our partners in Kilkenny create an environment where stories are Sports and Recreation Partnership, shared and visitor sites are identified, Kilkenny Tourism and Kilkenny County forming a rich resource that will become Council. Kilkenny RRO, Harry Everard an invaluable tourism and promotional supports the continuing management asset for the region. of the walking, cycling and other leisure trails under the Trail Kilkenny company. He Trail Kilkenny funded the development administers the Walks Scheme payments of the Woodstock Loop walks and is and landowner relationship and liaises delighted to include it as part the trails with trail stakeholders in Kilkenny. The RRO walking suite. There are two Loops: The is assisted in the actual development and Woodstock Loop 5Km and the shorter maintenance by a dedicated team of five Ladies Loop 3km. The trails encourage Rural Social Scheme participants. walkers to progress along the route reading local stories attached to the waymarkers, Trail Kilkenny received funding through the lecterns and benches. There are interactive Outdoor Recreation Infrastucture Scheme plates attached to the waymarkers where for the initial signage and waymarking users can take rubbings of local flora and of a trail that links together a number fauna. of the sacred and heritage sites in the Lingaun Valley on the Kilkenny/Tipperary The Rural Recreation officer also supports border. The idyllic, tranquil surroundings recent develpments to the Grennan Loop is a microcosm of Fáilte Ireland’s Ancient Walk. This 7kms community trail was East that extends from Slievenamon’s originally developed by Thomastown Tidy slopes right into Carrick-on-Suir forming Towns. The route varies from footpath the county border. Key heritage resources to riverside, woodland and quiet country such as the Ahenny and Kilkieran High road across the River Nore. It takes walkers Crosses, Knockroe passage tomb, past many archaelogical and historic Bessborough House (Kildalton College), features such as the 13th century Anglo- and Ormonde Castle lie within the region. Norman Grennan Castle before looping The primary objective of this project is to back into the town.

Picture: Lingaun Valley Knockroe Passage Tomb 30 KLP ANNUAL REPORT 2019 OTHER PROGRAMMES AND INITIATIVES 2019

Smart Villages Look to the Future Programme

KLP will be organising a series of events what needs to happen to optimise the later in 2020 for all interested community potential. groups and small businesses in the county. 5. “Social Inclusion”: how to involve the The aim is to introduce them to some of the community in its work, is a fifth cross developments on big themes that will be cutting horizontal themes in the overall important to their future. programme.

The Smart Villages “Look to the Future” The Smart Village concept emerged from the programme will comprise of up to eight EU’s efforts to ensure that rural areas get the events across five broad themes: same focus in terms of the implementation 1. “Food for the Soul”: How Culture, of innovation as do cities and large towns. Heritage & Arts can be both an aid to It will likely be very influential on both the community development and in turn be EU and Irish government’s plans for local aided by the process. development in the next five years. 2. “Nature & Nurture”: The place of Biodiversity & the Environment in The events are scheduled to commence later community planning. this year in venues around the county and 3. “Our Town”: The sustainable future of KLP hopes to make them both stimulating Rural Towns and Villages. and entertaining for participants. We would 4. “Access All Areas”: the role and future be delighted to see you at some or all of of Transport, Energy & Broadband them. in improving access to services and