National PPN Conference 2026
Empowering Communities through Connection, Collaboration and Cohesion
Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone, Co. Roscommon
24-25 September 2026
Introduction
We were delighted to attend the National PPN Conference 2026 and to meet with fellow PPN Secretariat members, PPN Representatives, PPN and Local Authority staff from across the country. The conference provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen existing relationships, share experiences, and learn from the work being undertaken by Public Participation Networks nationwide.
The conference was held in the beautiful surroundings of the Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. The event was extremely well organised and offered numerous opportunities to network and engage with participants from other PPNs. Throughout the two days, a wide range of speakers delivered informative and thought-provoking presentations, while workshops, roundtable discussions and site visits encouraged meaningful dialogue and collaboration. The conference theme, “Empowering Communities through Connection, Collaboration and Cohesion”, was reflected in every aspect of the event and highlighted the important role that PPNs play in supporting community participation and local democracy.
Day 1
The conference opened on Thursday morning with registration and networking, followed by an opening address delivered by representatives of the Department of Rural and Community Development, the National PPN and Roscommon County Council. These opening remarks highlighted the continued importance of community engagement and the role of PPNs in ensuring that local voices are heard in decision-making processes.
- Keynote Address: Louise Weir, University of Galway Lecturer with expertise in local and policy development.
Louise’s presentation explored community participation, policy development and the importance of collaborative approaches to addressing local challenges. - Motivational Speaker: Richael Timothy – Resilience, Community and Giving Back
A particularly inspiring session was delivered by Richael Timothy, Paralympian cyclist, Richael shared her personal journey following a life-changing acquired brain injury and spoke passionately about resilience, determination, community support and giving back. Her story served as a powerful reminder of the strength that can be found through community connections and support networks. - Empowering & Connecting Communities: The Power of Local Collaboration
This brought stakeholders to discuss how partnership working can strengthen communities and create opportunities for all. The session reinforced the importance of community organisations, local authorities and statutory agencies working together to achieve shared goals. - Roundtable Discussion and Community Conversation: “Your Voice – Your Ideas”
Participants were encouraged to share experiences, identify challenges facing their communities and exchange ideas on how PPNs can continue to evolve and support local participation.
Excursions and Site Visits
The conference organisers provided a variety of site visits and excursions, allowing delegates to experience examples of community development, heritage, tourism and social innovation projects within County Roscommon. Options included:
- A Ramble Around Roscommon Heritage Walking Tour.
- A Boat Trip on Lough Ree focusing on Biodiversity and Tourism.
- Building Better Together – Social Innovation and Inclusive Local Development in Kilbride Parish.
- A Guided Outdoor Recreational Walk at Yew Point.
- In-house networking opportunities at the conference venue.
These activities encouraged informal learning and provided additional opportunities to exchange ideas and build relationships with representatives from other PPNs and community organisations.
The evening programme included a pre-dinner reception, a ministerial address, gala dinner and entertainment. These social elements of the conference facilitated further networking and strengthened connections between delegates from across the country.
Day 2
Keynote Address & Guest Speaker
- Séamus Boland, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC).
The second day began with a welcome session and recap of the previous day’s discussions, followed by a keynote address from Séamus Boland, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). His contribution focused on civic participation, community development and the importance of ensuring that local voices continue to influence policy at both national and European levels. - Fergal Guihen Endurance Cyclist
Delegates then heard from Fergal Guihen, who shared insights from his remarkable “Rossie to Aussie” endurance challenge, cycling over 30,000 kilometres across 28 countries. His presentation on courage, connection and community was engaging and inspirational, highlighting the resilience that individuals and communities can achieve when working towards a common purpose.
Workshops
The conference concluded with a series of workshops showcasing best practice from across the country. Topics included:
- From Evidence to Action: Unlocking Community Climate Leadership
Facilitated by Dr Harriet Emerson and Sarah Wetherald (Sligo PPN), this workshop explored how communities can take leadership roles in responding to climate challenges and translating evidence into meaningful local action. - Community Resilience in Action
Led by Aisling Dunne, Healthy County Co-ordinator, Roscommon County Council, this session focused on preparedness, response and recovery mechanisms that help communities respond effectively to challenges and emergencies. - Opening the Waterways
Presented by the Lough Ree Access for All CLG team, this workshop demonstrated how accessibility and inclusion can be enhanced through community-led initiatives, ensuring greater participation for all members of society. - Building Community Resilience Through Better Access to Financial Services
Led by Susanne Rogers of Social Justice Ireland, this workshop considered the challenges community groups face in accessing financial services and explored practical solutions to improve financial inclusion and sustainability.
Conclusion
The National PPN Conference 2026 was a highly worthwhile and informative event. It successfully brought together community representatives, local authorities and stakeholders from across the country to share experiences, celebrate achievements and explore opportunities for future collaboration. The conference programme balanced informative presentations, practical workshops, networking opportunities and community engagement activities, ensuring that delegates gained both knowledge and valuable connections.
A special thanks to Paul Clabby and Jody Moylan – PPN Unit, Community and Enterprise Department, Roscommon County Council who hosted this years conference.