Public Participation Network E-mail: [email protected]; Web: www.longfordcoco.ie fb :Longford Public Participation Network

Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Longford Public Participation Network (PPN) E-bulletin September 2015

CONTENTS: 1. NEWS FROM LONGFORD PPN Page 1 2. WHAT’S ON IN YOUR MUNICIPAL DISTRICT? Page 2 3. LOCAL NEWS & SERVICES Page 15 4. THE GATHERING Page 21 5. NATIONAL NEWS Page 24 6. EU NEWS Page 26 7. UPCOMING TRAINING/WORKSHOPS Page 29 8. FUNDING Page 34

1. NEWS FROM LONGFORD PPN

Public Participation Network update:

 The PPN would like to welcome Longford Comhairle Na Og as our newest members and look forward to working with them in the future.

Meetings held/ planned:

 PPN Secretariat Meeting held Monday 14th September 2015.  PPN resource worker attended and participated on a panel for the Active Citizenship seminar hosted by Longford Women’s Manifesto Group.  Upcoming Community Vacancies on the Board of Citizen Information Service and Longford County Childcare. Invitation to submit submission of interest will be sent out shortly.

General: The PPN Facebook page is Longford Public Participation Network. Please copy and paste the following URL below if you cannot get direct access from link above:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Longford-Public-Participation-Network/1583548325216241?

If your group has any information they would like posted please contact us on Facebook where we will share your information or if you are not on Facebook e-mail [email protected] and we will post it on your behalf. Don’t forget to “Like” our page!!

If there are any community group’s you know who are not yet registered with the Longford PPN they are invited to do so online or download at www.longfordcoco.ie , e-mail [email protected] or contact Siobhán at 087 261 5583

Page 1 of 41 Longford Public Participation Network E-mail: [email protected]; Web: www.longfordcoco.ie fb :Longford Public Participation Network

Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

2. WHAT’S ON IN YOUR MUNICIPAL DISTRICT?

New for the month of September:

Longford LGBT meets every Wednesday evening in Longford town at 8pm. Our aim is to provide a safe, secure and friendly environment for the LGBT community, families and friends in and around Longford. Anyone attending our meetings is assured of discretion and it is an environment where everyone respects everyone else's personal circumstances. For information on this or any other aspect of our service please call us on 086 3022161 and a committee member will return your call. Alternatively we can be found on FB at Longford LGBT or our web page at www.longfordlgbt.ie'

Longford Charity Colour Run: 27th September, a fun 5km Charity Colour run in aid of Temple Street Hospital and Longford Mental Health. This event has no limits in relation to age or capability. Young and old are welcome as are those who wish to walk or maybe even crawl the event! Registration is at 09:30am

Backstage Theatre Group presents their annual series of One Act Plays on Friday 16th and Sat 17th October @ 8.30pm in Backstage Theatre. This year we showcase a wealth of acting talent drawn from our increasing membership producing three amazing plays. The three plays are, Chip Van plays Dixie ( Drama) a play which is set to go on One Act Festival Circuit. Drinking Companion (Comedy) and Ruby of Elsinore (Comedy). This will be a great night out for just €12/10 with something for everyone so go ahead and book early by ringing 0433347888 or online www.backstage.ie

Longford Historical Society : Public Lecture on one of Drumlishs’ most famous sons, William O’Higgins who was born in Barraghbeg and who laid the foundation stone for that ‘glorious undertaking’ - St. Mel’s Cathedral in the 1840s - The lecture will take place on the 15th October in Community Centre and is part of the Longford Historical Society series of Autumn Lectures.

Longford Beekeepers: Longford Beekeepers Meeting on Monday 21 September in Teagasc at 8 pm, Speaker: Keith Pierce, Topic: Winter preparations

Longford Toastmasters Club Meeting: Thurs 17th Sept 8.20pm, Longford Arms Hotel First floor . COME AND JOIN US!! Become a better Speaker - Become a Leader- Your potential is UNLIMITED Safe Learning Environment - Great Feedback - Lots of suggestions for how to improve - Lots of Fun - You’ll love the applause - Visitors always welcome. Quote from Secretary Jude Portbury " Great buzz at our meeting tonight 5 visitors, 4 of which spoke on a Topic .Two excellent stage 6 speeches. Thanks to Anne and Bernie from Cavan Toastmasters for supporting us on our first night back from our summer break". Meetings first and third Thursdays of the month at 8.20pm

Longford Women’s Link celebrates 20 years: Join us and celebrate 20 years of Longford Women’s Link in the Longford Gold Club on Thursday 15th October 2015. Includes a Champagne reception

Page 2 of 41 Longford Public Participation Network E-mail: [email protected]; Web: www.longfordcoco.ie fb :Longford Public Participation Network

Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472 and a fabulous 3 Course Meal in the Hilltop Restaurant. Music on the night Paschal, Liz and Davey! Great night’s entertainment guaranteed! Tickets at €25 can be purchased at Farrell & Coy, Centenary Square, Longford Office Supplies, Hazelbrook Shopping Centre or from Reception at LWL 043 33 42511 Longford Women’s Link: Fundraiser, Table Quiz night this Friday 18th September at 8.30pm at The Sin Bin Event Centre Longford Rugby Club. Great night promised - finger food and prizes galore!

Ladybirds, Brownies, Guides & Sr Branch of Irish Girl Guides will all be starting back in September. A fun evening of activities for girls from age 5 years upwards, providing the opportunity to discover new ideas, new skills, new experiences and new friendships - "giving girls confidence". Do you fancy a couple of hours of youthful enthusiasm and energy? Ladybirds/Brownies/Girl Guides are looking for volunteer leaders age 17 plus. If you have a skill to share and can give up to two hours a week to join in we are looking for Leaders for all of these groups in and around , Longford and Clondra. If you would like to join the Leadership teams for a fun and very rewarding couple of hours please contact Joanna 086 237 2616. Find us on Facebook at: Irish Girl Guides - Ardagh Longford Girl Guides.

A Meals on Wheel Network has now been formed under the umbrella of Irish Rural Link to tackle the issues affecting the delivery of the service. Issues include cuts to funding, increasing bureaucracy, food labelling, employment schemes etc. Irish Rural Link are calling on Meals on Wheels organisations around the country to contact them if they are interested in becoming members of this network. Please contact James Claffey IRL on 090 6482744 or email [email protected] for more information

Lithuanian School opened on Saturday 5th September at 10am: Renata Rapkauskiene has informed LCRL that the Lithuanian School in Longford held a very successful Open Day in the Attic Youth Café, Temperance Hall, Longford Town on Saturday 29th August. This was a great opportunity for intending pupils and their parents/guardians to meet the teacher and learn more about the school. Classes will be held from 10am to 1pm every Saturday in the Attic Youth Café, Temperance Hall, Longford Town. This is a great milestone for the Lithuanian Community in Ireland as it will be the 13thLithuanian School in Ireland. Over the last few months the Rural Resource Worker at Longford Community Resources Ltd has been liaising and supporting Renata a Lithuanian lady living in Longford, in her quest to open the Lithuanian Saturday School in Longford. Renata is a qualified Primary School Teacher and Lithuanian Language Teacher. She graduated with a Level 8 Degree and has taught in schools for 15 years. Renata is currently taking enquires from parents of intending students by phone to 083-4708371 or by e-mail to address [email protected] or follow the link below to the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vaik%C5%B3-ir-Jaunimo-centras- SAVASLt/757148621068252?sk=info&tab=page_info&edited=mission

The RSA's 'Check it Fits' service: The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has introduced a new, free service in response to a frightening statistic that shows that as many as 4 out of 5 child car seats

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472 are incorrectly fitted which can result in serious injury or worse, a fatality in the event of a collision. Since October 2013, the RSA’s ‘Check it Fits’ Service has checked over 8,000 child car seats and restraints in Ireland. Of these, 83% required some adjustment. Worryingly, 79% of seats required a major adjustment, of which 3% were deemed not fit for purpose and condemned, meaning they could have caused injury or even death in the event of a collision. The ‘Check it Fits’ Service is a full-time, nationwide, free expert service which aims to put parent’s, grandparent’s and guardian’s minds at ease that their child’s car seat is safely and securely fitted in their car.

They will be visiting the following locations in Longford this September/October:

Location Street Name Town Date Time Supervalu Hazelwood Longford Wednesday 30th 10.00am – Shopping Centre September 5.30pm Supervalu Edgeworthstown Thursday 1st 10.00am – October 5.30pm Supervalu Barrack Street Friday 2nd 10.00am – October 5.30pm

Lus Na Greine, Granard Family Resource Centre: 043 66 60977 Email: [email protected]

Bus to Ploughing,by request we are organising a bus to travel to the Ploughing Championship in Stradbally, Co. Laois subject to sufficient interest on September the 22nd. For transport booking we need to have numbers in asap. Call 043 6660977 or 087 0558549.

‘Busybees Parent & Toddler Group’will hold their first meeting of the Autumn on Tuesday the 22nd Sept . From 10 am to 12 noon. All babies and toddlers welcome with their parents or carers. Lots of interesting workshops and fun play time.

Seated Exercise Group: back Friday the 18th. at 11am. All welcome. Women in Touch &Granard Art Club will be back in action on the usual days; Tuesday the 22nd for WIT and Wed the 23rd for the Art Group. All welcome and a truly great programme will be on offer.

Youth Groups: Reconvene the week of the 22nd as follows: Cool Girls Club (9 to 12 yrs) Tuesdays 4.30 – 6 pm; Boys Zone (9-12 yrs) Thursdays 4.30-6pm. Children 6-8 yrs club meet on Wednesdays from 3 – 4 pm. Glee Club back Saturday September 26th normal time.

Foroige Club: commences September 24th at 7pm. We look forward to seeing you all. New members welcome.

Course: A four week Personal Development programme in the centre on Monday evenings starting 28th September and ending on October 19th. This is a great opportunity to become more mindful and self-aware and take time out to care for yourself. Bookings now being taken.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

‘Triple P’ Parenting Programme: Will be delivered in the centre starting on September 15th. This is a free evening programme that supports positive parenting and enhances family life and communication within the family. Bookings can be made through the centre.

Irish Heart Foundation Mobile Visit: Will take place on September 16th between 10 am and 1 pm. This is an opportunity to have a free health check and get some valuable information on lifestyle and personal health care.

Big Raffle: Lus Na Greine have kindly received a deeply appreciated donation of a six ton trailer of split ash timber for raffle to raise funds for our counselling service. Tickets will go on sale shortly at €5 each. We ask for your support. The first prize is worth an estimated €500

The Granard Branch of St Christopher’s Services is holding a grand raffle for two (2) tickets for the One Direction’s concert in the 3 Arena in Dublin on Sunday 18 October. Raffle tickets cost €5.00 each and can be purchased from SuperValu, Granard or any committee member. The raffle will be drawn at a function at John V. Donohue’s Lounge on Saturday the 19 September when there will also be other valuable prizes. Hope you will give this great event your support.

The John Dungan Branch of Comhaltas will hold their AGM on Thursday, 17th of September at 8pm in the Granard Area Action Group Information Office Main St, Granard. The John Dungan branch is due to host the County Fleadh in May 2016, in Granard, in order for this to be a success we need new enthusiastic committee members who are willing to get involved. We hope to bring our Irish music/culture to the fore in celebrating the 1916 centenary. Please show your support in keeping our tradition alive by attending the meeting on Thursday the 17 September.

Monster Bingo, a date for your diary – Granard Motte Enterprise Centre are having a Monster Bingo on Sunday 18 October at 3.00pm in the Community Centre Granard. Your support will be appreciated.

Adult Learning Centre: Did you leave school early? Do you need help with Reading; Writing; Spelling; Maths or Basic Computers? Does your child need help with their homework? If you do, please call into the Adult Learning Centre Main Street Granard or phone 0436686211. The centre is now taking names for new classes commencing this month. These course are funded by Longford and Westmeath Education Training Board and the Department of Education and Skills.

The Irish Cancer Society is currently seeking Volunteer Drivers to drive Cancer patients to treatments. Details from Gail Flinter, who is Transport Services Manager with the Irish Cancer Society and manages a programme called Care to Drive, which is a volunteer delivered transport service. [email protected]. or Rebecca on 01 2316642, [email protected] or National Cancer Helpline Freephone 1800 200 700

Strictly Come Dancing, : Takes place in the Park House Hotel on Friday 18, Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September in aid of Longford Palliative Care and Mostrim Community Games. 26 of fine men and women form the town are taking to the stage to show off their new dancing skills. Friday and Saturday night shows are sold out and there are only a few tickets left for Sunday night.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Tickets cost €15 each, so if you want to see the best shown in town, Contact Majella on 087 7207880. This is a “ticket only” event and you cannot pay on the door

School re-union on Sunday, September 27th next, St. Patrick’s National School, Killeen will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its opening and Bishop Francis Duffy will celebrate Mass at the school at 3pm and there will be refreshments and a chat for all afterwards. For further information contact [email protected].

Yoga, Drumlish: Beginners and Improvers 6 week YOGA course start Thursday 17th September at 7.30pm in the Village Inn, Drumlish. Bring a mat, a bottle of water, and wear comfortable clothing.

Mullinalaghta/Mullahoran Gun Club will hold their annual draw on Sunday, 1st November. Tickets are on sale in local shops or from any club member. Details of prizes will be published next week. Support would be appreciated.

A Gowna students bursary to assist Gowna students undertaking a 3rd level course in 2015 is being provided by Gowna Community Development Association. There are six bursaries available at 500 euro each. Criteria: resident in Gowna hinterland and a college communication confirming acceptance of the student on a 3rd level course. Only one winner permitted from a family with multiple applicants. Applications by email sought with name address, mobile number and 3rd level college course to [email protected]. A draw on Friday 18th September will determine the six successful applicants. Any further information required contact Jerry on 087 7953131.

Social dancing classes, Loch Gowna: take place every Thursday night in the Pikers Lodge from 8.30 – 10pm. Everyone welcome.

Mindfulness Meditation classes will begin in Arva on Tuesday 22nd September and will run for 8 weeks. No experience necessary, just a willing heart and a desire for a more peaceful life! For more information and to reserve your place call 087 2968924.

Ongoing

Traditional Music Sessions around the County: *Tally Ho, New Street, Longford – 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. *Rustic Inn, , – Wednesday Nights every week. *The Bent Elbow, Drumlish, County Longford – 8pm on Friday Nights. For further information on Trad Sessions and Comhaltas Events please contact: Martin Murphy – 086 8119444 * The Camlin Bar and Lounge, Clondra every Wednesday @9.30pm. For further information please contact Rose @ 086 0722825

Adult Badminton, Granard: Takes places each Monday night from 8.00pm to 10.00pm in Cannon Kelly Community Sports Hall Granard at the rear of Ardscoil Phadraig. Keep fit and have fun for only €3.00 - Rackets and Shuttles provided. 4 Playing Courts. Contact Willie on 086-8226523 for further information.

Slimming World group, Granard on every Thursday evening @ 7.30pm in the Sacred Heart National School, For further information please telephone Liz on 087 9534254.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Granard Country Market: Granard Country Market continues each Friday morning beside Granard Post Office commencing at 8.30am to 11.00am. The usual supplies of home baking, crafts; firewood and local honey are available.

Granard Credit Union is pleased to announce a Car Loan rate of 7.5%. Please call into the office for more details and the offer of free road tax with every 2015 car purchased with a loan from Granard Credit Union Ltd. Other services available are EFT Electronic fund transfer, Laser facility, Wedding / car loans, Communion/confirmation loans and 2nd level IPad loans. Office hours are Tuesday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm.

New 2 U: The SVP shop ,Lower Main Street Granard have a wonderful new selection of stock with something for everyone. Come along and bag a bargain. Opening hours Fridays 10.00am to 5.00pm. Saturdays 11.00am to 5.00pm. and First Tuesday of each month from 10.00am to 5.00pm. For further information contact 085-1503985.

Citizens Information: An information officer from Co. Longford Citizens Information Service will attend Granard Area Action Group Information Office, Main Street, Granard each Thursday morning from 10.30am to 12.30pm. The service is free to all. No appointment necessary.

Granard Community Diary: A diary is available at the Information Office of Granard Area Action Group, Main Street, Granard where groups and organisations can log their events so as to avoid duplication. Phone 043-6686922 to log events where a member of staff will gladly assist.

Friday Club, Lus Na Greine: Every Friday morning at 11am. Great relaxation for mind and body. A range of holistic treatments for stress management and good health also available.

Granard Art Club, Lus Na Greine: Will be back in action every Wednesday from 10am – 12pm for an exciting year with a line-up of resident and creative visiting artists. New members welcome.

Adult & Children’s Sign Language Classes, Lus Na Greine: Continues every Monday evening. We are considering running a class for children from 7 years and up. If you are interested, perhaps you would contact the Centre on 043 666 0977 or e-mail: [email protected]

Lus na Gréine: ‘Busy bees Parent & Toddler’ Group: Meet Wednesdays’ 11-12.30. Structured workshops combining play, puppet making, and musical rhythms and reading stories. Tips and support for parents, Grandparents and Carers.

Lus na Gréine Knitting Club: Knit & Chat, share Patterns and Tips. Every Tuesday from 12 pm – 1pm in the Centre.

Counselling & Bereavement Support, Lus Na Greine: Available on one to one basis. Confidential and professional support so you don’t have to suffer alone. Appointment through the centre.

Other Activities at Lus Na Greine: Social Dancing Classes: Tuesday’s at 8 pm. Learn how to jive, waltz, fox trot and quickstep. Cost €10. Tai Chi: Thursday’s 8pm Yoga Classes: Mondays 11 am Friday Club Seated Exercises: Fridays at 11 am. Men on the Move: Wednesdays 9.30 – 11am. Groups & Clubs continue as normal: WIT travel to Ballincarrigy Women’s Group on Tuesday at 10 am all welcome.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Women in Touch - Meet every Tuesday 10 – 12 pm (Dress Design & Felting Class for next few weeks) Granard Art Club every Wednesday 10 – 12 pm. Crafters United – Thursday morning 10 am – 12 pm. Set Dancing – Monday evening 7.30 – 9.30 pm. For further information contact 043-6660977 or 087 6387827.

Rath Mhuire & Dolmen Resource Services : Rath Mhuire Resource Centre – Barrack St. Granard. Phone: 043 – 6686309. Email [email protected] Moatsider’s Active Retirement Group

Parent & Baby/Toddler group (Ballinalee) is on every Monday in Currycahill Hall. All are most welcome to join us for a cuppa and a chat from 10.30am. Cost per family is just €3.

Dolmen Centre, : have a range of activities and social events happening in the coming months. New members are very welcome. For any information on any of the groups or activities – contact Jackie or Lucy @ 043-6686309. Transport is available.

North Longford Men’s Group: This Group meets weekly at the Dolmen Room Aughnacliffe Community Centre each Friday from 12-3 pm. As it’s one of the most progressive groups nationally, it offers an extensive programme to suit all men. It’s a socially dynamic group, where men gather and work on meaningful projects. Where they can realise their full potential and the passing on of their skills and talents is a key aspect of their work. It was established in 2004 and coordinated by EDI Centre Longford it has gone from strength to strength. It offers an open door policy. New members are most welcome. For further information contact Co ordinator Breda 043 3347515

Computer training: The Longford VTOS programme is now recruiting. It offers full time business and computer training free of charge. To qualify you must be over 21 and in receipt of a social welfare payment. If you are interested contact Maeve Madden, VTOS Co-ordinator at 087 2050589.

County Longford Ladies Golf Club have a package of Beginner Lessons for ladies in process - a great way to meet new people and take up a new sport - if you are interested or know of anyone interested - Enquiries to 086 3508920

Longford Community Bus: Is your group taking a trip soon? If so, are you aware that there is a community bus available to community and voluntary groups in the Longford area? The bus is subject to a driver being available and does not do runs on Sundays. If you would like more information on the bus, rates etc. contact Pozy Greene 085-1334595 for further details.

Longford Branch Alzheimer Society of Ireland invites you to host a Tea Day in your home or your workplace. Remember every single euro you raise will be spent on vital services in County Longford. Please contact Breda/Marie on 043-3348402 or visit www.teaday.ie

Springlawn Men’s Group meet every Monday at 11am to 1pm in the front room of the Resource Centre at 26 Springlawn. The group was formed eighteen months ago and to date having enjoyed playing various card games during the winter months. The group have now taken on a wood work project making flower boxes for around the base of the trees. Light refreshments are provided

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472 and the group has an open door policy. The group is currently planning a range of activities and would welcome new members.

Springlawn Gardening Group meets every Tuesday morning at 10am- 1pm at the Resource Centre at 26 Springlawn. The group is made up of enthusiastic amateur gardeners. At the moment the group are planting summer bedding The group is in discussions with ETB regarding setting up a FETAC level 3 Horticulture course to start in January February of next year. Places are limited so they will be given on a first come first served basis.

The Wednesday Activity Group meets every week in the Resource Centre at 26 Springlawn. This group has been meeting for over five years. During each year a range of activities are planned and all materials are provided free of charge and light refreshments are also provided. We are currently on a summer break and will resume again in early September. If you are interested in joining the group drop in any morning and let us know or call us on 0873749950 or by email at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you.

FYI: Longford Westmeath Community Transport Ltd (formerly known as LCRL Rural Transport).: is administered from Moate and Mr Noel McCormack is the co-ordinator. All services are running the same as always with the local providers. The contact details for Longford Westmeath Community Transport Ltd are as follows:

Noel McCormack, Manager, Tel: 087 798 7905 Magdalen Dunne, Administrator, Tel: 090 644 8670 Address: Westmeath Rural Community Transport IRL Complex, Moate Business Park, Clara Road, Moate, Co. Westmeath Email: [email protected] Fax: 090 6448670

Senior Helpline: Ireland’s only confidential listening service for older people provided by older volunteers is open 365 days of the year. The helpline is open every day from 10am to 10pm. Don’t be alone. Call Senior Helpline LoCall 1850 440 444. No call costs more than 30cent.

Family Learning: Are you an early school leaver? Are you a long time out of education? Would you like to learn a new skill? Meet new people? Have fun while learning? If so, the following programmes for 2015 for parents, grandparents and carers include Child Development, Family Learning, Growing your own Vegetables, Parenting, Food Nutrition, Communications, Family Budgeting, Family Digital Photography and Supported Learning on line. Programmes are at QQI Level 1, 2 and 3. Most of the courses are for six weeks, courses are free with basic education skills given. For further information please contact Grainne on 086 8883413, telephone 043 3345609, or e-mail [email protected]

Tarmonbarry Community Cycle takes place each Monday evening at 7.30pm. It takes off from Centra shop. Why not join in and get involved for the Summer months.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Unwanted Mobile Phone (): If you have an unwanted Mobile Phone lying about your house, St Patrick’s NS, Ballinamuck would like them as they are collecting in aid of Autistic Ireland. Please donate any unwanted mobile phones to St. Patrick’s National School, Ballinamuck. For more information contact 0433324063.

Drumlish Social Dancing: Classes continue at the Community Centre, Drumlish, Wednesday at 8.30pm. This class is for all ages (no age restriction!!) and all abilities, if you’re looking to enhance that first dance on your wedding day, learn a few moves or shed a few ounces after the festive session. Come along join in the fun.

Drumlish Cookery Classes on Tuesday at 7.30pm in Drumlish Community Centre, Tiles cover over the next three weeks are Importance of Fish in your Diet, Stress & physical activity. Please text Breda 087 9181787 to confirm your place.

Drumlish Art Classes: continue this Wednesday morning at 10.00am – 12 noon in the Centre with the use of water paints.

Ballinamuck Bingo continues in Ballinamuck on Tuesday nights at 8.30p.m. More local support would be appreciated.

The Ballinamuck Visitor Centre is run by Ballinamuck Enterprise group and is manned by volunteers and anyone can visit the centre by calling (087) 205 5462/0879613312 or by emailing 1798ballunamuvk@ gmail.com, it is free to visit and all are welcome

Ballinamuck now on Facebook: Ballinamuck is on Facebook our pages are as follows: 1. Ballinamuck Longford, 2. 1798 visitor centre, 3. Ballinamuck walks, 4. Ballinamuck Essert Twining, 5. Ballinamuck enhancement. So why not like our pages and keep up to date!

Fitness at Monaduff Gym : If you are currently looking for a Fitness Class but don’t know where to start, why don’t you join us here in the Fitness Centre. We run group classes every Monday at 8pm & Wednesday & Friday at 7pm in Monaduff Gym beside the football pitch. Membership/Insurance costs €20 for the year (unbelievable value) and then the cost of the class is €6 per session or we do monthly prices too. We are looking for members with all fitness types. If you are looking to slim down, tone up or even maintain your physical appearance get in contact with Gabriel at the Following contacts. Phone: 087-2189517 Email: [email protected] Facebook/fitnesscentre

Yoga classes, Drumlish: continue every Thursday night in The Village Inn, Drumlish at 7.30pm. Contact 087-2868254.

Badminton in the Community Centre, Drumlish: every Thursday night at 9.00pm. New and previous members welcome.

Edgeworthstown District Development Association will be holding a night at the dogs fundraiser in Mullingar Greyhound Stadium on Saturday 12th September. Tickets available from any committee member or 043-6671801, [email protected], www.edgeworthstown.org. Buster draw winning ticket holder wins €1,000. A great night guaranteed.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Beginners Irish Classes: Beginners conversational classes for adults starting soon in The Green. No pressure, No books just a circle of friends having a chat together. Basic Irish to start with. If interested call Pauline on 086-1513152.

Outreach work in Edgeworthstown: The Rural Resource Worker in Longford Community Resources Ltd will carry out on-going outreach work in Edgeworthstown to support people who are unemployed. If you would like more information please contact Mary Mulvey, Longford Community Resources Ltd at 043-3345555.

Parent and Toddler Group, Edgeworthstown: held every Tuesday from 11am-12:30pm in The Green. Very friendly group. Everyone welcome. Contact Caroline 087 681 8083.

Edgeworthstown Active Retirement Group: meet every Friday from 11.30am – 1.30pm in The Green. New members welcome.

Ballymahon Church Choir: St. Matthews’s Church choir has resumed usual practices at 8pm on Wednesday evenings in the Church. New members are always welcome. Contact Mary on 086- 8715155.

A Pilgrimage to Medjugorje will take place from Knock on Sept 16th 2015 at a cost of €699 per person sharing. Contact group leader Marita Concannon on 098-64017 or 089-4146331.

Ballymahon Social Dancing takes place every Saturday night in Cooney’s Hotel from 9p.m. to 11p.m. Everyone welcome.

Ballymahon Men’s Group: Longford Community Resources Ltd continues to support Ballymahon Men’s Group. The men meet every Tuesday at 9am in Bridgeways Family Resource Centre, Dean Egan Hall, Ballymahon. Activities include gardening and computers. New members are always welcome. There is no admission charge. Refreshments are provided. If you would like more information please contact Mary Mulvey, Longford Community Resources Ltd at 043-3345555 or Rory Gallagher Bridgeways Family Resource Centre 090-6432691.

Creative Ardagh: Why not learn a new skill or refresh one you already have with Creative Ardagh Tuesdays: Drawing and painting course starting on Tuesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Contact Loretto on 0868478527 to book and for further details Wednesdays: French Leaving Cert Grind Club 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Practice for your orals and prepare for your written exams with a qualified, experienced teacher/examiner in a group session. €80 for 6 classes €20 drop in. Susan Eades, M.A., H.Dip Ed, SEC oral examiner. Adult Group French Conversation Sessions at 8pm. French conversation on current affairs, Grammar catch-up, French for holidays. €80 for 6 wks. or €20 p/w drop in. Thursday: Toddler Creativity continues from 11am to 12 pm. €5 per child. Free tea/coffee for accompanying adult. Elements of Art classes continue from 12.30pm to 1.30pm. €5 per person. Drop in and join in or follow us on creativeardaghelementsofart.blogspot.com. Friday: Spanish Leaving Cert Grind Club recommences, 6.30pm to 8pm. €80 for six class block or €20 for each drop in session. New members always welcome.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

And there’s more... Keep an eye out for Community Games Model making classes starting soon and don't forget you can book your own group session, school tour or birthday party with us! Are you interested in German, Irish, Chinese, English Grind clubs or group sessions? Any subject not mentioned you would like us to organise a club for? CREATIVE LONGFORD Craft Gallery at Ardagh Heritage and Creativity Centre is a lovely spot to browse local crafts at your leisure. Just give us a call to browse.

Clondra Community Association: Art Classes for children continues on Saturday mornings at Waterways Ireland House in Clondra. Adult classes on Wednesday evenings. Contact 087 615 8772 for details.

Ladies circuit training class will take place in St. Barry’s Hall, Kenagh at 7.30pm on Tuesday’s and 8.30pm on Thursday’s. Suitable for all levels of fitness. Call 087-9292378.

Change of A Dress: Proceeds from this shop go directly to Meals on Wheels Dublin Street, Longford Tel: 043.3346621 Designer Boutique & Local crafts Outlet for pre-owned designer clothes and accessories. We sell quality gently used clothing, which is often well known designer brands. Clothing is in excellent condition and priced at a fraction of its original sale price. If you are looking for that special outfit at a giveaway price why not call to us and see the fabulous stock we carry:

 Wedding outfits  Party wear  Day dresses  Evening dresses  Coats  Jackets  Suits  Separates  Shoes and boots  Handbags  Accessories  Costume jewellery  Fascinator’s

County Longford Ladies Golf Club have a package of beginner Lessons for ladies in process - a great way to meet new people and take up a new sport - if you are interested or know of anyone interested - Enquiries to 086 3508920.

St. Christopher’s Services: Volunteers wanted for the ‘Leisure Buddies Project’ in St. Christopher’s. We are continuously recruiting for volunteers from around the county to give up their time once a month to befriend someone who attends St. Christopher’s and to meet up with them at a time that suits them both to attend a social activity of their choice. e.g. - going to the cinema; to the pub; a concert or just for a cup of tea and a chat. New volunteers are inducted and fully supported

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472 by staff. If you are interested in befriending anyone in St. Christopher’s please contact the Leisure Buddies co-ordinator Michelle on 086 4074988.

Arthritis Longford Branch: are running the following courses which are adapted exercises suitable for people with arthritis or other limitations: Walking / strolling group - every Thursday at 11am, meet at the Mall Complex, Longford Town. Aquafit every Tuesday at 11:30am and Wednesday at 8pm in the Longford Arms Leisure Centre. Contact Mary at 087-1404200 or 043-667506 for further details

Longford Warmer Homes: To qualify for the Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme:  You must own and live in your own home  It must be built before 2006  You must receive one of the following: - Fuel Allowance as part of the National Fuel Scheme, or - Job Seekers Allowance for over six months and have a child under seven years of age, or - Family Income Supplement Please contact the Longford Warmer Homes office on 034 3393255 to obtain an application form.

Longford Community Mothers continues to provide our home visiting services to families with children aged between 0-5 years. Community mothers use experienced mothers from the local area to visit parents in their own home to help with isolation and stress many parents experience with young children. The service free and you can ask your local Public Health Nurse for more information or contact the co-ordinator Catriona Corcoran who is based in Longford Childcare 043 3342505

Longford Community Mothers Baby Café : This group will meet on Thursdays between 11 and 12noon in the Family Centre behind St Mel’s Cathedral. The group is an ideal opportunity for new mums to meet other parents and babies, make new friends, hear what activities are available locally and share experiences of being a new parent. For more information contact Catriona Corcoran 086 0442354 or visit www.cmums.ie

Longford Voices United Community Gospel Choir (supported by LCRL): Longford Voices united every Monday night @ 8.30pm in Respond House (Across from EDI Centre). Everyone welcome. Please contact Ann on 087 7141733.

Co Longford Citizens Information Services: hold a Pensions Clinic every Tuesday morning from 10 - 1 p.m. This service will assist clients with queries on State Contributory; Non-Contributory and Transition Pensions and will include PRSI records, calculating mixed insurance pensions and claiming a pension from another EU state or country with bi-lateral agreements. For all enquiries and to book an appointment for the pension clinic contact Tel: 076107 5890

Other services provided by CIC * Pensions - State Pensions (Contributory and Non-Contributory) - NEW SERVICE * Fair Deal - Nursing Home Support Scheme - NEW SERVICE * IRIS - Irish Remote Interpreting Service - NEW SERVICE *Immigration - Interpreters (Polish, Latvian, Russian, Lithuanian, Slovakia) Every Tuesday - No Appointment Required

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

* FLAC - Free Legal Advice Clinic * CAVA - Chartered Accountants Voluntary Advice By Appointment Only

Tel: 07610 75890 Fax: 043 3342485, Email: [email protected]

The Peelo School of Dance Longford is running a number of summer dance camps for Twinkle Toes & Tiny Boppers right up to 16 years+. All dance styles including Classical Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Contemporary, Zumba and much more. For further information ring 01 6275570 or [email protected]

East Meets West Women’s Group (supported by LCRL): are women from all nationalities, ages and backgrounds who meet every second Thursday from 11am – 12pm for a friendly chat and a cuppa. Here women can make new friends and find support while living in County Longford. This group are also a Mother/ Toddler group. For further information please contact Yvonne on 043 33 47944

Longford Women’s Manifesto Group: The Longford Women’s Manifesto Group meet on the third Wednesday of every month at the Longford Women’s Link training room. If you have an interest in your local government and issues in your community this group might be of interest to you. Email: [email protected] or phone Longford Women’s Link at 043-41511.

Friendly Phone Call Service calling older people in Co. Longford (LCRL): Mary Mulvey, Rural Resource Worker will be promoting the Friendly Phone Call Service to older people in County Longford. Please contact Mary at 043-3345555 if you are a group in County Longford who would like more information on the service. The Friendly Phone Call Service is a free confidential service which provides information on local activities and services available to older people as well as an opportunity for a friendly chat. If you are feeling lonely or isolated and you would like someone to talk to, this is the service for you. The Friendly Phone Call Service can be reached at 043-3349678 from Monday–Thursday from 10:00am – 4:00pm.

GROW Meetings: GROW Community Mental Health Movement meets in the Community Mental Health Centre, Dublin Road on Mondays at 11am. If you are anxious, isolated or depressed why not join this group and learn a practical psychology of mental health. For further info contact John on 086 8033126

Walk for fun, Clondra: Meeting at the waterways house in Clondra every Thursday at 7pm. Weather permitting.

Clondra Community Association  Art classes continue in Waterways Ireland House, Clondra on Saturday mornings for children and Wednesday evening for adults.  Visit Mary Holmes tranquil garden by arrangement. Phone 086 230 7963  Feed the donkeys. Contact Maureen at 043 33 26310  Traditional music in the Camlin Bar on Tuesday evenings.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Newtownforbes Pilates: Classes at the Giving Tree (Wendy Louise Hat Design), Cloontagh, , Monday 8pm to 9pm - Tuesday 8pm to 9pm (men only). To book a place contact Brendan on 087 7681730.

Tarmonybarry Parent and Toddler Group takes place every Tuesday morning from 10.30am to 12noon in Buttercups Playschool.

Mohill Badminton every Wednesday, Mohill sports complex starting at 8pm. Newcomers are always welcome.

Outreach Clinic: Mohill Family Support Centre has an outreach clinic in the Trathnona Centre on Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Anyone needing advice on social issue’s such as housing, social welfare or on community issues is welcome to drop in.

3. LOCAL NEWS & SERVICES:

RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (LEADER) 2014-2020 PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETINGS Local Development Strategy LEADER is an EU funded programme aimed at improving the quality of life in rural areas and diversifying the rural economy.

For the new LEADER element of the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, Longford Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) will be the Local Action Group with Longford Community Resources Ltd are the Implementation Partner.

Longford Community Resources Ltd are preparing the Local Development Strategy for County Longford. This strategy will set out the objectives and proposed actions for the next LEADER programme.

A public consultation process is currently underway in relation to the next Rural Development Programme (LEADER) 2014-2020. We would like to hear your views on what you think is needed in County Longford.

The next Rural Development Programme will focus on Enterprise & Job Creation, Rural Tourism, Promoting local development, Rural Youth, Protecting our Environment and Managing our Resources.

Public Meetings will take place on the following dates:

 Tuesday, September 15th, 8.00pm – Granard Library

 Wednesday, September 16th, 8.00pm – Ballymahon Library

 Thursday, September 17th, 8.00pm – Longford Rugby Club

 Tuesday, September 22nd, - 8.00pm St. Marys Centre, Edgeworthstown

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

 Wednesday, September 23rd – 8.00pm Lanesboro Community Co-op

 Thursday, September 24th– 8.00pmDrumlish Community Centre

For further information, please contact, Rural Development Team, Longford Community Resources, Longford. Email :[email protected] ; Tel : 043-3345555.

Longford Volunteer Centre (Supported by LCRL) Volunteering Opportunities

The following are some of the event for which we need volunteers in the coming weeks:

 Have you a couple of hours spare in the mornings?. Why not think about accompanying older people on a bus to Ballymahon Daycare centre from 10am in the morning for 2 hours in the morning. For more details http://volunteering.force.com/OpportunityDetail?id=a0020000008kGc3AAE&showWrappe r=true&showEmail=true

 Interested in sports? Can you help with registration or stewarding for the Longford Colour Run on September 27 http://volunteering.force.com/OpportunityDetailid=a00D000000a4O0KIAU&showWrappe r=true&showEmail=true (stewards) and http://volunteering.force.com/OpportunityDetail?id=a00D000000a4O1hIAE&showWrapper=true &showEmail=true (registration assistants)

We currently have 30 organisations that are looking for volunteers – you can view all our current vacancies on our website www.volunteerlongford.ie or contact Terri 087 2915367 (Mon-Wed) for more information.

Volunteer Managers Network Meeting: Next meeting on Thurs 24th Sept at 10am. in 26 Springlawn , Longford. Come and get support around issues affecting the management of volunteers. We will be having a draw that morning for a free ticket to the National Volunteer Managers Conference on Oct 8th in Dublin. If you’re not in.....you can’t win!

Contact Details for Longford Volunteer Centre: Terri on 087 2915367 (Mon-Wed) or Angela 087 7594770 (Wed- Fri) Longford Volunteer Centre, 6 Earl Street,

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Longford Mobile 087 7594770 www.volunteerlongford.ie Follow us on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/longfordvolunteercentre Twitter: www.twitter.com/volunteerlvc

Aisling Children’s Arts Festival 2015, Sunday 18th to Saturday 24th October 2015

It’s going to be fun, fun, fun at the annual Aisling Children’s Arts Festival. A week of drama, dance, music and magic is in store for the children of Co. Longford.

Open Day - Sunday 18th October In the grounds of St. Michael’s Boys National School, Longford the week kicks off with the family Open Day - clowns, face-painting, workshops, carnival games and lots, lots more. And it is totally free! Also at the open day - it's Dizzy O'Dare and his Giant Balloon Show. A fantastic show of clowning, audience participation and lots and lots of balloons!

Workshop Programme Saturday 24th October – Temperance Hall, Longford A full day of workshops celebrating all kinds of creativity – painting, crafting, dance and drama. All workshops can be booked in advance for a small fee and are tailored for ages 4-7 and 8-12.

Art Competition Open to all primary and secondary school children in Co. Longford. Entries submitted through the schools – closing date for entries is 28th Sept 2015.

Aisling 2015 Theatre Programme – Backstage Theatre, Longford

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Tuesday 20th October 10am & 11.45am Dramaiocht Branar present “Blath” for Children aged 5 and over. In a world that has decided colour and plants are no longer needed a boy discovers a packet of flower seeds in a junk shop and must learn how to bring the flower to life.

Wednesday 21st October 7pm- School's Showcase The children of Ardagh NS, Gaelscoil Longfoirt and Clondra NS take to the stage for a spectacularly entertaining evening’s entertainment for friends and family.

Thursday 22nd October 7pm Cahoots Theatre Co present “Ssh We Have a Plan” for Children aged 4 and over. Join a bunch of madcap characters as they plan to capture a beautiful bird perched high in a tree!

Friday 23rd October7pm “The Jack Wise Show” A Molotov cocktail of Comedy, Magic and Sword Swallowing for all the family.

Women in Business Event

Local Enterprise Office Longford will host a Women in Business Event in association with Longford Women in Business Network and Longford Women's Link on Tuesday 22nd September from 7pm - 9pm in the Sin Bin Event Centre, Longford Rugby Club, Longford.

Pat Murphy, Chairperson of the Longford Women in Business Network will MC on the night.

Róisín Hogan

The first speaker on the night will be Róisín Hogan. A finalist on BBC The Apprentice in 2014, Róisín has recently launched HíRó by Roisin, an exciting new company that is introducing an innovative concept to the health and lifestyle food markets. Róisín will speak about her experience in setting up her own business, the challenges she has faced and what keeps her motivated.

Helen James

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Helen James will be the second speaker on the night. Helen James is a designer, creative director and brand developer with over 20 years experience working in the design business, both for large international companies including Donna Karan where she worked over a span of 15 years and as an entrepreneur developing her own brand for Dunnes Stores, Considered.

There will also be a presentation from Longford Women’s Link on the Ulster Bank Community Foundation and Female Entrepreneurship.

Book online at www.localenterprise.ie/longford

Library Programme of Events

On-going Library activities:

Branch Day Event Time Contact No.

Longford Each Friday Knitting Group 11-1pm 043 3340727

Longford Every second Mon Longford Writers Group 7-8.30pm 043 3340727

Longford Mondays & Library Visit St. 11-12pm 043 3340727 Wednesdays Christophers

Longford Wed./Thu/Fri Library Visit Local Mornings 043 3340727 Schools

Longford Wednesdays Triple P-Positive 10-12pm 043 3340727 Parenting

Lanesboro Each Monday Knitting & Crochet 2-4pm 043 3321291

Lanesboro Each Tuesday ESOL Class 7-9pm 043 3321291

Lanesboro 2nd Mon of the Month Lasrai Writers Group 7-9pm 043 3321291

Lanesboro Last Fri of the Month Book Club 11-12pm 043 3321291

Lanesboro Each Tuesday Active Age 3-4pm 043 3321291

Granard Last Wed. of every Book Club 11-1pm 043 6686164 month

Granard Every 2nd Saturday Storytelling for 11-12pm 043 6686164 Children

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Drumlish Each Wednesday Arts and Crafts 2-4pm 043 3324760

Drumlish Each Monday Local Schools Class Visit 10.30-11.30am 043 3324760 Each Wednesday 11.30-12.30pm

Drumlish Each Wednesday Keyboard Skills for 12.30-1.30pm 043 3324760 Children

Edgeworthstown Tuesdays & Thursdays Local Schools Class Visit 11.30-12.30pm 043 6671927 12.30-1.30pm

Ballymahon Tuesdays & Local School Class Visit 11am-12pm 090 6432546 Wednesdays 2-3pm

Longford Libraries Contact Details: Web: www.longfordlibrary.ie T:@Longfordlibrary Fb: www.facebook.com/longfordlibraries

Branch Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday* Longford Branch Library Tel: 043 3341124 10am - 10am - 10am - 10am - 10am - 10am - E: [email protected] 8.30pm 5.30pm 8.30pm 5.30pm 5pm 2pm fb: like 'Longford Branch Library' *Except on Bank Holiday Weekends

Branch Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Ballymahon Community Library 10am - 10am - 1pm, 10am - 1pm, Tel: 0906 432546 1.30pm - 1pm, 2pm - 1pm - 2pm - 10am - E:[email protected] Closed 8pm 5.30pm 6pm 5pm 1pm fb: like 'Ballymahon Library'

Branch Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Edgeworthstown Library 11am - Tel: 043-6671927, 1.30pm, E: 2pm - 11am - 10.30am - [email protected] Closed 8pm Closed 5pm Closed 1pm fb: like 'Edgeworthstown Library'

Branch Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Granard Library 10am - 10am - 10am - 1pm, 1pm, 1pm, Tel: 043-6686164 Closed 1.30pm - 1.30pm - 1.30pm - 1.30pm 10am - E: [email protected] Mon 7pm 7pm 8pm - 5pm 1pm

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

fb: like 'Granard Library'

Branch Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Lanesboro Library Tel: 043-3321291 10am - 1pm, 2pm - 2pm - 2pm - 10am - E: [email protected] 8pm 6pm 2pm - 8pm Closed 5pm 1pm fb: like 'Lanesboro Library'

Branch Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Drumlish Library 10.30am - 1.30pm, 11.30 - 2pm - 4pm, 5pm - 10am - Tel: 043-3324760 6pm Closed 8pm Closed Closed 1pm E: [email protected] fb: like 'Drumlish Library'

. 4. THE GATHERING IRELAND

2013/2014 saw the successful delivery of many Gathering Events throughout Ireland. 2015 also has a lot to offer over sea visitors. Listed below are just some events being held nationwide in September:

Click on the events below for further details

Merrion Square Open Air Art Exhibition

Every weekend Sat/Sun 10:00am till 6:00pm at Boulevard Gallery (Merrion Square West, Dublin 2, Ireland) Free open air art market, over 150 artists exhibit their work. Read more about Merrion Square Open Air Art Exhibition

Wretched Little Brat

16 - 21 Sep 2015 at Sean O'Casey Theatre (St. Mary's Road, East Wall, Dublin 3) The untold story of persecuted love, moralistic law and endless litigation between Lord Alfred Douglas (Bosie) and Robbie Ross, Oscar Wilde’s lovers. George Bernard Shaw exclaimed when he met Bosie that he was a ‘Wretched Little Brat’. Meet an array of po Read more about Wretched Little Brat

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Spirit of Folk 2015

18 - 20 Sep 2015 in Co. Meath Spirit of Folk is a two day camping festival set against the backdrop of the beautiful Dunderry Park, Co. Meath from 18th-20th of September. It's a family friendly weekend which celebrates all things folk! 2015 is its fifth year r Read more about Spirit of Folk 2015

The View in Here: New Drawings by Jessica Dessner

18 - 26 Sep 2015 at CIT Wandesford Quay Gallery (Wandesford Quay, Cork City, Co Cork) Read more about The View in Here: New Drawings by Jessica Dessner

Miss You Already Special Fundraising Preview Screening to benefit the Irish Cancer Society

21 Sep 2015 at The Lighthouse Cinema (Market Square, Smithfield, Co. Dublin) On September 21st, Entertainment One will hold a very special charity fundraising preview screening of Miss You Already, starring Drew Barrymore and Toni Collette, in Light House Cinema with all profits going to benefit Irish Cancer SocietyÂ’s Paint it Pin Read more about Miss You Already Special Fundraising Preview Screening to benefit the Irish Cancer Society

Wulin Hanyun Performance Troupe

24 Sep 2015 at Cork City Hall (Cork City, Co. Cork) For one night only the world renowned ‘Wulin Hanyun’ Performance Troupe will perform a spectacular fusion of ancient Chinese martial arts and traditional folk music in Cork. The troupe, which consists of students and teachers from Songshan Shaolin Wushu Read more about Wulin Hanyun Performance Troupe

Dublin Festival of History

25 Sep - 10 Oct 2015 at Dublin Castle (Palace Street, off Dame Street, Dublin 2, Ireland) The third annual Dublin Festival of History will take place from 25th September to 3rd October 2015. Events will take place in Printworks, Dublin Castle and public libraries throughout the City

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472 from 25th-27th September 2015. This year’s Fe Read more about Dublin Festival of History

Wild Atlantic Way Run - Castletownbere

2pm Saturday 26 Sep 2015 in Castletownbere, Co. Cork 10km, 4km and Fun Run Read more about Wild Atlantic Way Run - Castletownbere

Kinsale Gourmet Festival 2015

9 Oct 2015 at Trident Hotel (World's End, Kinsale, Co. Cork) The 39th Kinsale Gourmet Festival is a foodie / fun lovers heaven. On Friday night, your hosts for the weekend Kinsale Good Food Circle members will serve you champagne and canapes at a reception in Trident Hotel Kinsale Read more about Kinsale Gourmet Festival 2015

Kinsale Gourmet Food Festival 2015 - Chowder Cook Off

9 Oct 2015 at Actons Hotel (Pier Road, Kinsale, Co. Cork, Ireland) Gourmet Food Festival 2015 - Chowder Cook Off 9th October 2015 Actons Hotel, Kinsale, Co Cork

THIS OTHER KINGDOM w/ Exploding Eyes

10 Oct 2015: Doors @ 7pm at The Academy (Middle Abbey Street, Dublin 1, Ireland) THIS OTHER KINGDOM w/ Exploding Eyes Academy 2 (Abbey Street) Saturday 10th October Doors @ 7pm "A group with a ferocious live sound that more than matches the propellant drive of their studio work, This Other KingdomÂ’s headline show next month wi Read more about THIS OTHER KINGDOM w/ Exploding Eyes

Flavours of Art

15 Oct 2015 at National Gallery of Ireland (Merrion Square West, Dublin 2, Ireland) The National Gallery of Ireland is hosting a Flavours of Art Event in the Autumn. Bringing world

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

renown Artworks, Food and Live Music together in a traditional setting. On Thursday 15th of October , The National Gallery will showcase the treasures of Read more about Flavours of Art

Kerry Film Festival 2015

21 - 25 Oct 2015 at Blennerville Windmill (Blennerville, Co. Kerry, Ireland) Kerry Film Festival (KFF) is an internationally recognized short film festival which takes place across the County of Kerry each October. KFF is renowned for celebrating the work of young filmmaking talent through a well established and lively short Read more about Kerry Film Festival 2015

Whiskey Live Dublin 2015

24 Oct 2015 in Dame St-Georges St, Co. Dublin Whiskey Live Dublin will take place on Saturday 24th October at the new city centre location of The Paintworks, Dublin Castle on Dame Street. The afternoon session shall take place from 1.30pm - 5.00pm and the evening session from 6.00pm - 9.30pm. Th Read more about Whiskey Live Dublin 2015

5. National News

Launch of 2015 Better Together Campaign: Dublin - 24 September

Training provider: Date / time: 24 Sep 2015 - 12:30pm - 2:00pm Venue: The Meeting Room, Royal Irish Academy, Academy House,19 Dawson Street, Dublin 2. Location: Dublin Price details: This is a free event but registration is essential. Course details:

The Wheel, in partnership with Medtronic, the global leader in medical technology, is delighted to invite you to the launch of the 2015 Better Together Campaign.

Since 2010, the Better Together Campaign has helped hundreds of community and voluntary organisations across Ireland by encouraging the public to support these good causes. This year we are launching the Better Together Campaign in the beautiful surroundings of the Royal Irish Academy. We have three inspirational speakers:

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

 Breifne Earley (Pedal the Planet)

 Professor Eamon O’Shea (NUI Galway & Manager of the Tipperary Senior Hurling Team)

 Jim Kavanagh (winner of the Charity Hero Award 2014).

The launch is also your chance to find out about all the following opportunities:

 The 2015 Better Together Online Video Competition for community and voluntary organisation, clubs and associations

 Ireland’s Charity Hero Award in association with Volunteer Ireland

A light lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Book early to avoid disappointment.

What is Better Together?

Better Together is a nationwide campaign which aims to build support for hundreds of community, voluntary and charitable organisations across the country by encouraging the public to support these good causes and make a difference.

Find out more about the Better Together campaign Who Should Attend:

Anyone working in community, voluntary and charitable organisations as well as members of the public wishing to support good causes.

How to Register:

Registration on the day from 12:15pm. A light lunch will be provided. This event is free, but registration is required.

The Royal Irish Academy is located nearly halfway down Dawson Street between the Mansion House and St Anne's Church and opposite Cafe en Seine.

Click here for map and directions.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Public Consultation On Guiding Principles for Public Engagement

The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Mr. Brendan Howlin T.D., recently published proposed Principles based Guidelines which aim to foster greater citizen consultation and involvement in policy and service development to strengthen democracy and improve public services.

A four week consultation process was initiated on the draft Guidelines - and there is still time to add your voice too.

Anyone wishing to submit their views may do so by forwarding them to [email protected] by Friday 18 September 2015. All submissions will be considered, may be published on the Department’s website and will be subject to Freedom of Information legislation. It is proposed, following the consultation process, to submit the draft Guidelines resulting from the consultation process to the Government in the Autumn, for final approval.

Key Principles

In summary, the key principles are:

 Consultation with citizens must be genuine, meaningful, timely, balanced and with the ultimate objective of leading to better outcomes and greater understanding by all involved of the benefits and consequences of proceeding with a particular policy or legislation proposals.  Consultation should be targeted at and easily accessible to those with a clear interest in the policy in question.  In the case of significant policy, services or legislative proposals, public bodies should make systematic efforts to ensure that interested and affected parties have the opportunity to take part in open consultations at all stages of the policy process: development, implementation, evaluation, and review.

http://www.per.gov.ie

6. EU NEWS

State of the Union 2015: Time for Honesty, Unity and Solidarity

'Our European Union is not in a good state. There is not enough Europe in this Union. And there is not enough Union in this Union.' On Wednesday morning (9 September), President Jean-Claude Juncker delivered his first State of the Union address before the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

President Juncker focused on big challenges such as the refugee crisis, the future of the euro and foreign policy. In the speech, President Juncker outlined his political vision for the future of the EU and set out the main elements guiding the preparation of the Commission's Work Programme for 2016 and beyond.

Read the full speech here. There's also a short video of the highlights here.

He also outlined the proposal, adopted by the Commission on Wednesday, to relocate an additional 120,000 refugees from Italy, Greece and Hungary. This is part of a comprehensive package of measures aimed at addressing the refugee crisis, including a list of safe countries of origin, a handbook on returns and a permanent relocation mechanism. For more on the Refugee Package, see our Spotlight below.

The President’s speech was followed by a plenary debate. The annual State of the European Union address was established by the Lisbon Treaty in 2009 and is an annual milestone for the Commission President to set out his views. It also serves to kick-start consultations with the Parliament and the Council on the work programme of the Commission and is an important element in the structured dialogue between the European Commission and the European Parliament

EU Children of Peace initiative: €1 million to assist children affected by Ebola

The European Commission is providing an additional €1 million in funding so that children orphaned and affected by Ebola receive education and psychosocial support. The amount is part of the overall funding of €11 million allocated this year for educational projects in conflict areas under the EU Children of Peace initiative.

This additional EU funding will support the re-opening of schools, currently closed due to the epidemic. It will be channelled through UNICEF and Save the Children - with each organisation receiving €500,000 - to develop educational projects in Guinea and Sierra Leone. In addition, the EU will train children and teachers in Ebola prevention, it will support measures to increase hygiene and sanitation in schools, provide psychosocial support, reintegrate children into their communities and strengthen the resilience of populations in the event of future health crises

Mentoring and money for innovative farming apps - EU at the 'Ploughing'

Around Europe, 50 SMEs, start-ups and web entrepreneurs are receiving EU support as they put the final touches to their prototype apps for smart farming. Around 30 will be selected for further funding, which will be used by the developers to prepare their app for market launch in 2016.

You can see some of the Apps developed by SmartAgriFood2 being demonstrated live in the EU marquee (Block 3 - Row 25 - Stand No 429) during the National Ploughing Championships from 22-24 September 2015.

Known as a ‘FIWARE accelerator project’, SmartAgriFood2 has been allotted €5 million in EU funding, €4 million of which is going directly to SMEs with innovative ideas on how apps can make farmers lives easier and lead to more efficient, high-quality agricultural production.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

The idea must target large-scale arable farming, horticulture or livestock farming. Technology-wise, it must also use the open-source platform FIWARE. This was developed within the Future Internet Public-Private-Partnership launched by the European Commission in 2011. Technical challenges include dealing with large amounts of data from agricultural equipment, interoperability between various systems, standardisation, and small-scale, isolated software development. App ideas aplenty It is clear from the response that plenty of people have an idea for an innovative agriculture app: when SmartAgriFood2 published a call for project proposals in September 2014, 158 companies or individuals from 22 European countries responded with 128 eligible proposals. Of these, 50 were selected for initial funding following an evaluation that looked at potential market size, relevance and feasibility, among other criteria. Spain was the most successful country, with 11 projects selected for funding, but overall, 17 countries are represented. Each company has a mentor to support them along the way as they develop the demonstrable prototype that is necessary to be in with a chance of receiving additional support.

One of the mentors is Carole Thurston of the South East Business & Innovation Centre in Ireland; she is supporting five Ireland and UK-based companies. One of her Irish companies is developing an app to keep farmers aware of the conditions inside poultry sheds. Sensors record parameters such as humidity, temperature and the presence of certain gases. If the threshold is reached for any of these, the poultry manager receives an alert via his or her Smartphone. Project details:

 Project acronym: SmartAgriFood2  Participants: Netherlands (Coordinator), Belgium, Denmark, Spain, France, Ireland, Poland  Project reference: 632861  Total cost: € 5 152 025  EU contribution: € 4 899 999  Duration: June 2014 - May 2016

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

7. UPCOMING TRAINING/WORKSHOPS

EDI Centre

Occupational First AID, FETEC LEVEL 5; 3 day course from 9am to 4.30pm (Tea/ coffee served) Cost: €200 Tuesday 29th September Wednesday 30th September Wednesday 7th October For more information contact Geraldine on: 043 3347515

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Disability Activation Congress Training (DACT) course. Call the EDI Centre @ 043 33 47515 to book or for more information. Free Training Opportunities:

Would you be interested in an introduction to digital photography, sending/receiving emails, using social media, using apps, buying tickets and on-line banking? Longford EDI Centre is running an 8 hour basic computer course which can be delivered mornings, afternoons or evenings. To avail of this great opportunity contact Bernie or Amanda at 043 3347515 or email [email protected]

IT – 4 –today (Trade Unions supporting Learning) Free 1 day computer basics course: 8 hrs of IT training Eligible to attend if you are:  Aged 55 OR OVER  Unemployed  Experiencing disadvantage  Without any recognised formal education or  Have none or some computer experience To apply, contact Bernie or Mary in the EDI Centre on 043 33 47515 During this one day session, you will learn how to use a computer including: send/receive email, use social media, use of Apps, introduction to digital photography, perform simple online transactions; such as book a ticket, pay a bill, online banking and introduction to safety & security online. ______

Career Planning Programme This six week programme five mornings per week- from 9.30 – 1.30, offers assistance to unemployed and other target groups to re-enter the work force through training & employment supports. Programme consists of - Skill sampling, personal development, career guidance, IT training, one to one support, Limited place available, Confined to people in receipt of a payment from Department of Social Protection (Unemployment or Disability payment) To register for this programme Contact the Centre.

The EDI Centre currently runs two FAS Local Training Initiative projects (LTI's). REVAMP Training Project Pilot Youth Project by Dept of Social & Family Affairs identified youth at risk of long-term unemployment from welfare dependent homes, with little motivation, early school leavers, some with literacy problems. Mainstream education or training not relevant to their needs. Lack of suitable local training initiatives.

Pre-Employment identified Furniture Restoration as viable carrot to attract trainees to broader training. FAS Community Training Initiative was established in Dec 2002. First two programmes were 26 weeks long, now they are 48 weeks with continuous enrolment. In the first 5 years 70% of trainees progressed into full time work.

Apprenticeship, Education or Training. Catering/Life Skills Programme This is a 48 week LTI for long-term unemployed This is a 26 week LTI for long-term unemployed persons providing FETAC accredited training in areas persons providing FETAC accredited training in areas

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472 such as: such as:  Application of Number  Application of Number  Communications  Communications  Career Preparation  Career Preparation  Computer Literacy  Computer Literacy  Upholstery  Personal and Interpersonal Skills Woodwork  Personal Effectiveness Tiling  Work Experience Personal and Interpersonal Skills  Culinary Operations  Personal Effectiveness  Restaurant Service Work Experience  Bread, Pastry and Desserts  Word Processing  Internet Skills Health and Safety Awareness

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FREE JOB SEARCH SERVICE Every Thursday from 10am to 1pm..The EDI Centre can help you with:  CV’s  Job Applications  Interview Skills  Training Opportunities  Career Advice The EDI Centre provides a range of services to support unemployed people including information on employment rights, entitlements, training and education with access to computer facilities. For further information, Contact the EDI Centre on 043 33 47515 E-mail: [email protected] / Website: www.Edilongford.ie

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White Goods Training ‘Appliance Repair and Recycling Project’ is the latest training programme undertaken by the EDI Centre. A 12 week training programme for 10 jobseekers has been designed and is being delivered by a qualified local Electro Mechanical Engineer who is also an experienced tutor. The programme is approved and funded by Skillnet. Washing machines, dishwashers, dryers, cookers, heaters, microwaves and small electrical etc are all part of the items which are worked on in the programme.

______

Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board

Free Education Courses

Would you like to learn more about Gardening, Woodwork, Working with Childcare, Cookery Food and Nutrition, Turning on the computer, using the computer for learning on line? If the answer is yes and you are a parent, grandparent, child carer, early school leaver or a long time out of education, call or text Grainne 086 8883413, also email Longford [email protected]. Courses are free and basic education skills.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

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Ardscoil Phádraig, Granard

Ardscoil Phádraig are now enrolling for the QQI Level 5 courses in Animal Care and Nursing Studies. These QQI Level 5 courses are suitable for both school leavers and mature students who wish to return to education and gain new skills or employment. They also provide links to certain courses in Universities and Institutes of Technology and can be worth up to 400 points. Please contact the school on 043 6686209 for further details

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Longford Women’s Link

Are you a woman parenting alone and seeking to establish your career or update your skills?

This new Programme from Longford Women’s Link is what you need: QQI (formerly FETAC) Level 4 awards including: * Personal Development * Career Development and Exploration

Supported by: * Fortnightly group meetings to exchange information, have a cuppa and meet new people * Childcare and Transport will be provided * Delivery in mornings during school hours * Starting October 2015

Contact us: 043 3341511 [email protected] www.facebook.com/LongfordWomensLink This project has been kindly supported by IPB Insurance

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Certificate in Addiction Studies Level 7 – (20 ECTS) Awarded by NUI Maynooth

Information evening: Tuesday 15 September 2015 at 7pm

Certificate Start Date: October 2015

Venue: Longford Women’s Link.

Times: Tuesday 7pm to 10pm, plus 4 Saturday classes.

General Information: This course is designed to provide participants with adequate knowledge and skills to respond effectively and positively to addiction-related issues as they arise at work or in the community. It constitutes part one of the NUI diploma in addiction Studies programme and students who successfully complete this certificate may apply for progression to diploma course.

Course Aims: To provide participants with a broad overview of key theoretical frameworks in relation to substance misuse and dependence, and to enable them to develop basic helping and intervention skills.

Content: Module 1 Group work & Facilitation Skills/Reflective Learning. Module 2 Substance Misuse and Dependence Module 3 Drug and Alcohol Misuse in Contemporary Ireland Module 4 Approaches to Prevention Treatment & Rehabilitation.

Assessment Procedures: 85% minimum attendance - Participation in class and completion of relevant assignments/projects

Cost: €1,150

Applications should be submitted to Longford Women’s Link, Education and Training Department.

Admission Requirements: Participants must be 21 years of age or over.

Occupational First Aid - October dates QQI - Level 5 - 5N1207

Date: Thursdays - 8, 15 and 22 October 2015

Time: 9.00am to 5.00pm

Venue: Longford Women’s Link

It is essential to attend all 3 dates.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Cost: 210 euro. Class is limited to 10 participants – Tea/Coffee provided A 50 euro non refundable deposit is required to secure a place on this course. Full course fees should be paid prior to the start of course.

If you have any further queries or require a booking form, please contact - Pamela Latimer – Education and Training - Business Development Manager Email: [email protected] Tel: 043 33 415 11 or Mobile: 087 205 8152

8. FUNDING

Go for Life Grant Scheme

"The Go For Life grant will make such a difference to the lives of our community"

- Deirdre from Dominic's Community Centre Ltd, Tallaght

2015 Grants

The Go for Life Small Grant Scheme from Age & Opportunity and the Irish Sports Council is now open!

The Small Grant Scheme is a joint initiative between Age & Opportunity’s Go for Life programme and the Irish Sports Council. Grants are available to all eligible local clubs, groups and organisations that promote increased participation in recreational sport or physical activity for older people as a main element of their activities. A total of €300,000 will be available in grants in 2015. This year grants will be between €250 and €700.

To apply please fill in the application form below and return it to us by 12 noon on Friday, 25 September 2015.

2015 Application Form in word

2015 Application form in pdf

Overall aim

The National Grant Scheme aims to assist in the implementation of locally-developed, well-planned initiatives designed to increase participation in recreational sport and physical activity by older people. In particular, the scheme is aimed at:

 Supporting the work of Go for Life including the network of PALs (Physical Activity Leaders) and the development of Go for Life Games and other initiatives;  Assisting local clubs/organisations to enhance existing opportunities for their members in recreational sport and physical activity;  Assisting local clubs/organisations to start new initiatives geared at involving older people in recreational sport and physical activity.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Who can apply?

Grants are available to all eligible local clubs, groups and organisations that promote increased participation in recreational sport or physical activity for older people as a main element of their activities. Commercial, statutory or umbrella bodies, or their agents, are not eligible for funding under this grant scheme. One exception to this are Local Sports Partnerships who are eligible to apply. Day centres completely funded and directed by statutory bodies, such as the HSE, are not eligible. Grants are made available for sport or physical activity for older people and the overall membership of applicants must be such that older people will be the beneficiaries of the grant monies. Funding for sports clubs will not be considered unless the application specifically relates to older people. Only one application per group will be considered.

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Social Enterprises to be Recognised in Ulster Bank Business Achievers Awards

Ulster Bank Business Achievers Awards are now open and welcome applications across 8 categories including Social Enterprise. Winners for Munster, Connaught and will go forward to join the Ulster winner in a gala evening in December in Dublin. Why not take the time to apply and get your organisation the recognition it deserves. The Social Enterprise category recognizes those that have a positive impact on our communities. You must be a community group, social group or charity founded and operating in Ireland to enter this category. Your application must illustrate your story and how your social enterprise model works. You should list your achievements which can include, but are not limited to, business, economic, societal, scientific or environmental contributions.

Criteria

 Must be a social enterprise

 Community group, social group or charity founded and operating in Ireland

The last winner was The Food Hub, an initiative of Drumshanbo Community Council, The Food Hub is a voluntary community group that converted an old food factory into an enterprise centre for food and drink companies. Prizes & Benefits Provincial finalists gain  Exclusive rights to use the Ulster Bank Business Achievers Awards logo for promotion and marketing purposes.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

 On-going promotional opportunities as part of the Business Achievers’ Alumni that will greatly raise the profile of the company  Benchmarking of progress and achievements against competitors and other sectors in the local business environment.  Networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs, business leaders, enterprise support agencies as well as local and national government agencies  Tangible public acknowledgement for the effort of staff and recognition of their contribution in growing and developing the business.

Provincial Winners receive

 Coverage by our national media partners, The Belfast Telegraph and/ or The Irish Independent

 A specially commissioned company video that can be used on the company’s website and as part of marketing information

 A specially commissioned awards trophy

National Winner receives

 A €50,000 advertising bursary with the Irish Independent.

 Exclusive internationally recognised business mentoring from Enterprise Ireland.

 A full service communications workshop for you and key staff given by leading PR, Marketing, Sales and Communications specialists.

 A specially commissioned Ulster Bank Business Achievers Award trophy made exclusively for Award winners to provide a lasting recognition.

How to Enter

The entry process has changed from previous years. Please visit the website below to learn more and to submit your application now. www.businessachieversaward.com

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

SOCIAL INNOVATION FUND IRELAND

WHAT IS THE ANIMATE PROGRAMME?

The Animate Programme of Social Innovation Fund Ireland supports early stage innovations, projects, or organisations to get to the next stage of their development. Our aim at the end of Animate is to make sure that you are ready for next stage social finance or philanthropic investment.

The Animate programme consists of several elements. An award fund of €60,000, made up of a cash award fund of €30,000 in grants and non-financial supports to the value of €30,000. We expect to make 3 equal awards of €20,000 in value each, although the judges reserve the right to vary this based on the applications received.

WHAT TYPES OF PROJECTS ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

We have a special interest in projects that meet the criteria listed below, but that are also solutions to problems that public opinion is concerned about and seeking a solution to, that are or have the potential to be financially sustainable, and that create jobs in Ireland.

WHAT IS THE TIMEFRAME FOR THE ANIMATE PROGRAMME?

Applications close on 30th September 2015.

The selection process will run throughout October, including shortlisting candidates and selecting the final 3 or so awardees. Shortlisted candidates may asked to attend a workshop on 21 or 22 October 2015. Successful awardees will be informed in early November 2015. Selected awardees will be expected to be available for a public announcement in November.

The non-financial supports programme will commence in November and run till February, and the programme will close out during March 2016.

WHAT DOES SOCIAL INNOVATION FUND EXPECT OF ANIMATE CANDIDATES?

We expect applicants to engage fully and truthfully with the application and selection process – this includes providing full and accurate information, both written and verbal, at all stages of the process. Applicants are expected to be available for further information during October, to attend a day-long workshop in Dublin on 21 or 22 October, and to attend a public announcement in November.

WHAT DOES SOCIAL INNOVATION FUND EXPECT OF ANIMATE AWARDEES?

Awardees will be asked to sign a contract with Social innovation Fund Ireland and are expected to participate in media relations activity on request throughout the programme. Successful candidates are expected to be available to work on Animate for a minimum of 2 days per week from late

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

November 2015 through to March 2016, of which 1 day per week will be face to face with Social Innovation Fund in Dublin, and a minimum of 1 day per week will be follow up work.

WHAT CAN ANIMATE CANDIDATES EXPECT OF SOCIAL INNOVATION FUND IRELAND?

Candidates can expect that we will engage fully and truthfully with the selection process – this includes providing full, accurate, and timely information, both written and verbal, to applicants and candidates at all stages of the process. Social Innovation Fund Ireland will provide maximum notice for interviews, deadlines, and events.

WHAT CAN ANIMATE AWARDEES EXPECT OF SOCIAL INNOVATION FUND IRELAND?

Awardees can expect that we will provide grants and non-financial supports as promised. Grants will be announced prior to the start of the programme, and will be paid at the close of the programme. Social Innovation Fund Ireland is at all times committed to supporting the successful growth and adoption of Awardees’ projects.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Social enterprises, non-profit organisations, programmes or projects may apply. You will need to demonstrate your commitment to your desired social impact, and applicants with a legal form that is not-for-profit will have a clear advantage.

Applicants must be over 18 years old.

The project must meet the following high level criteria –

 Projects based in whose main benefit impacts people in Republic of Ireland  Social mission / Focused on social or environmental impact  Is a solution to a critical social issue in Ireland  Is innovative relative to other solutions available in Ireland (if any)  Is early stage, but is up and running. This means that it must be more than an idea, have a model that is identifiable, and has been tested with some users, and have raised some funds to get it off the ground.  Is scalable or replicable within Ireland  Has ambition to grow nation-wide at least, possibly internationally  Can create jobs in Ireland  Projects with sustainable revenue streams or the potential to develop them will have an advantage.

WHAT PROJECTS ARE NOT ELIGIBLE?

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

 Projects seeking funding for capital items – buildings, vans etc.  Research projects  Party political projects  Projects that do not provide a benefit to people or the environment e.g. projects that benefit animals only  Projects that screen beneficiaries in or out by faith or religious denomination  Projects where the main impact is outside Republic of Ireland  Projects based outside Republic of Ireland  Projects led by people under 18 years  Projects that are an idea (only) and that have not yet started.

IF I WANT TO APPLY, WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO? First, check the eligibility criteria to make sure you are eligible. Second, check the Animate programme details to check that you want to apply, and read the application form. Then, fill in the application form (below), check it and send it to [email protected] by 30 September 2015. Reminder: Closing date tomorrow 16th September – The Community Foundation of Ireland Youth Participation Panel

The Youth Participation Panel (YPP) is the first youth grant making programme to be established by The Community Foundation for Ireland and was officially launched on August 10th 2015. The YPP is made up of four young people, aged 16- 30 who are passionate about creating a better Ireland for our young people. Four grants are available of up to a maximum of €2,500 to: Organisations that will host a Youth Led project that provides Youth Personal Development and Soft- Skills* training/events to young people aged 16- 30, to take place in predominantly rural communities. *For our purposes Soft-skills are defined as youth empowerment, advocacy for and by young people, youth networking and peer learning and leadership skills.

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

Grants will be provided for the following purposes:  Workshops/ seminars/ events that provide 16- 30 year olds with soft skills training in the following areas: empowerment, advocacy for and by young people, youth networking and peer learning and leadership skills.  Workshops/ seminars/ events where local youth role models will speak to 16- 30 year olds on the topics above.  This project should be ‘Youth- led’ where young people (16- 30 years old) are actively involved in the running of the project.  Preference will be given to organisations that will run the workshops/ seminars/ events in a rural location in the Republic of Ireland.

How to apply Before you apply for the YPP grants 2015 please read the Grant Criteria which can be found here and ensure that your project matches the outlined criteria. Once you have confirmed that your project matches the criteria you can apply for the YPP Grants here. Closing date for the YPP grants is 4.00pm 16th September 2015. Your application will be acknowledged. If you do not receive an acknowledgement please contact us If you have any queries please contact us on [email protected] or contact the grants team on 01 8747354 Don’t forget to follow the #YPP: Twitter @CommunityFound, Instagram @cfiypp and facebook The Community Foundation for Ireland, #YPP.

Explore over 800 funding schemes on Fundingpoint

Want to heighten the profile of your Community Group! 

Then why not send us along a short piece for inclusion in next month’s PPN Ebulletin!

Is your group holding an event or has your group news you would like to share with the wider Longford Community?

Then why not promote it in this Ebulletin?

Just email, post or call to us (contact info above) For inclusion in the October edition of the PPN EBulletin

Compiled by Siobhan Cronogue

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Siobhan Cronogue, Public Participation Network c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council,

Great Water St., Longford ______043 3343472

c/o Community & Enterprise, Longford County Council, Great Water St., Longford. Phone: 087 2615583; E-mail: [email protected]

Sources: Longford PPN community groups ,EU News, DOECLG, Failte Ireland, Longford Co. Council, Longford Leader and other sources with many thanks!

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