Over 200 community group representatives gather at Fingal Public Participation Network in Swords
Over 200 community activists representing more than 140 community groups across Fingal attended the Fingal Public Participation Network (PPN) Plenary in the Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords on Wednesday November 8.
There were community representatives present from Garristown, Ongar, Howth and Balbriggan, among others. A wide range of groups were involved, including those with a focus on Arts, Culture, Environment, Festivals, Sports, Residents, Radio, Youth, Health and more.
As well as discussing key community issues, a Community Supports Showcase consisting of fourteen exhibits took place. Local service providers in attendance were the Fingal Leader Partnership and Blanchardstown Area Partnership who were joined by voluntary support organisations such as Charity Regulator, The Wheel. Representatives for community organisations present highlighted the services they provide locally which include funding, training, advice and advocacy.
Fingal PPN Secretariat member John Melvin said: “Fingal PPN is growing from strength to strength and is now in its third year of operation. The PPN belongs to the community and is run by the community. Our community membership is growing all the time with the profile and influence of the PPN increasing year upon year.”
Maria Tormey, also a Fingal PPN Secretariat member commented: “This is a really exciting time to be active in the community of Fingal. We are currently working on a new 2018 to 2020 Strategic Plan which will help us map our direction going forward and best serve our membership.”
Fingal Public Participation Network is a network of more than 500 community, voluntary, social inclusion and environmental organisations in the Fingal County area. The Fingal PPN plays an important role in representing communities in local decision making and policy making structures. Fingal PPN also provides training, networking opportunities and funding information to members. Get in touch at ppn@fingal.ie or find out more on www.fingalppn.ie.
Fingal PPN is co-funded by Fingal County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development.