On the 27^th and 28^th of April Resource and Support workers from PPNs across Ireland attended the wonderful Hodson Bay Hotel in Athlone for the PPN Workers Retreat. The 31 PPNs across Ireland represent 18,000 Community Groups nationally.

The Public Participation Network (PPN) is the main link between the Council and the Community and Voluntary, Social Inclusion and Environmental Groups in their County.

The retreat was an invaluable way for PPNs around the Country to network and idea swap. Over the 2 days, there were talks by Michael Quirke, Brian Harvey and The Wheel’s Tony Ward & Johnny Sheehan, as well as individual PPNs.

Waterford PPN Resource Worker, Muriel Tobin, said “It was a pleasure to be part of the organising group of this year’s retreat. I can’t even put into words the amount of personal and professional learning, support and friendships that were made in such a short space of time. This invaluable networking could never be captured in any amount of emails or zoom meetings. The unity and support was profound and it was very evident that a more cohesive collective will strengthen the PPNs in “Building a Better Future””

Laois PPN Resource Worker, Dan Bergin, said ” Stephen Ring and I were delighted to be part of the organising group for this year’s PPN Workers Retreat. This was the first Retreat since pre-Covid. It was a great opportunity to share knowledge, ideas and best practice that benefits all PPNs. Laois PPN would like to thank the DRCD for their support for this event.”

Offaly PPN Resource Worker, Bride Costello Hynes, said “A great opportunity for PPN staff from across the country to come together, to build relationships that help us support one another to enhance the delivery of Public Participation Network outputs effectively. A Solution focused event, providing an opportunity to discuss challenges and explore how other counties have overcome them. Thought provoking speakers and great open discussion.”