IRD Duhallow Progress Report 2021 / 2022

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

COMMUNITIES IN DUHALLOW

2021 - 2022

The Land & People The expanded IRD Duhallow region includes North West Cork and South East Kerry and Mid Cork. It is a largely rural area.

Over 85% of the population live in the open countryside or in settlements of less than 200 people.

The expanded Duhallow region has five market towns: Macroom (Pop 3738), Kanturk (Pop 2263), Millstreet (Pop 1574), Newmarket (Pop 988) and Rathmore (Pop 778).

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Designed and printed by: Kanturk Printers Ltd. Photographs by: Sheila Fitzgerald, Christopher Bourke and Tadhg Curtin.

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Contents Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Chairperson’s Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Manager’s Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Board Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 5, 6 Company Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9, 10 Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 EIP Blue Dot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 EIP Owentaraglin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 After LIFE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Agriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Social Farming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Rural Regeneration Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Enterprise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 IRD Duhallow Skillnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Culture & Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Community Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 23 LEADER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24, 25, 26 LEADER Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26, 27, 28 Social Enterprise Regeneration Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 SICAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Support for Ukrainian Refugees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Equality and Social Inclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Duhallow Carers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Equality for Women & Childcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34, 35 Saoi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Disability and Mental Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Rural Community Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 STRIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Youth and Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40, 41 Employment and Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42, 43 Local Training Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Community Employment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Rural Social Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46, 47 Tús . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48, 49 Revamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Kickstart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Afterschools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Duhallow Community Laundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Duhallow Community Food Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54, 55 Warmer Homes Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin pictured with IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh.

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2021 - 2022

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

Chairperson’s Address As I approach completion of my term as Chair of IRD Duhallow I have great pleasure in presenting my final Annual Address as Chairman. The Board leads and oversees the company’s activities during the year, which are set out in this Progress Report.

of membership, considering our strategy, values, the challenges, and opportunities facing the region and the company and the representation, skills, knowledge and experience required. I want to thank the chairs of the Working Groups that have already undergone this process and implemented changes.

The Board sets the tone and shared values for the way in which the company operates and recognises the importance of culture to our success. During 2021, the Board continued to assess and monitor our culture to ensure that it is aligned with our region, strategy, and values.

Board rotation this year has seen Annette O Mahony North-eastern Duhallow Community Rep and Sean Wallace Macra na Feirme Rep retired from the Board after excellent service to the company. I am delighted to welcome Amanda O Sullivan, Banteer Branch Chairman as Macra na Feirme Rep and Paul Murphy, Newmarket Sports and Leisure as North-Eastern Duhallow Rep. I want to congratulate Margaret McSweeney and John Lyons of the Mid Cork Region on their re-appointments to the Board for a second term.

Our Values are stated boldly as Courageous, Innovative, Responsive, Caring, Driven and Trusted; were confirmed by our Board at its annual strategic review and position and guide the company at all levels.

As Chairperson, I am satisfied that the appropriate controls exist and are managed effectively to meet the governance requirements of the Charities Regulator. As a company our Board and senior staff sign up to the Ethics in Public Office standards. To this end I want to thank, my fellow Directors and Vice-Chairperson Michael Twohig, who also chairs our Finance Committee for his support and financial oversight and our Auditors Westboro and Partners, represented by Mary Power and Deirdre Bardsley McGee.

Of course, the single biggest issue we as a Board have identified this year, has been the impact of Ukrainian Crisis and the establishment of two major hubs in Duhallow accommodating over 600 displaced people. Our Equality Disability and Migrants Working Group Chair, Pat Brosnan and Director, Geraldine O’Leary Community Representative from Millstreet have shown hands on leadership and support.

The pace at which the company moved from the reaction phase to response proved once again our agility, with over three decades of experience in dealing with unpredicted situations using local knowledge, our standing in the community and the principles of rural community development. We are represented on both Cork and Kerry Ukrainian Response Teams headed by the respective County Council CEO’s

Since the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the Board has focused on managing the impact of the pandemic on all communities and has overseen the company’s response by providing critical guidance and support to our management and staff. Physical Board meetings were not possible during the height of COVID-19 related restrictions but resumed in the latter part of 2021 as these restrictions were eased. I want to thank my fellow directors who embraced the new technology of virtual meetings and had to overcome and circumvent connectivity issues in all manner of ways and thank our staff for facilitating and supporting our Board and Working Group meetings.

IRD Duhallow’s ability to recruit, hire and retain the best talent from a diverse mix of gender and background, with the skills and experiences to drive innovative thinking to enable sustainable rural and community development is dependent on the level of funding available to the company from the core programmes we implement on behalf of government and the EU. Our HR committee, chaired by Anne Maria Bourke has done an excellent job in difficult financial circumstances over the past year and I want to thank her and the HR working Group members. We are pleased to have achieved the Gold Standard NSAI Excellence through People Award again this year.

The ongoing impact on of COVID on people and communities, young and old, is still emerging, especially the impact on confidence, anxiety, and mental health of the restrictions of social contact, unemployment, remote working, separation from family and friends, and isolation. We have partnered with the HSE and employed a Rural Mental Health Worker who has joined our Social Inclusion team to assist us in addressing these issues over the next three years.

IRD Duhallow is widely recognised as having a high-performance culture. I want to acknowledge and thank our CEO Maura Walsh and her management team and staff for their continued hard work, dedication, and professionalism. The commitment they have shown, driven by their passion for the community and loyalty to the company, that motivates them to go far beyond the call of duty, I have yet to encounter in any other organisation or body in all my years in both private and public service.

The board acknowledges the work of management and staff from all parts of the company in addressing the challenges of Covid and responding quickly with innovative and targeted interventions from designing and making masks for frontline workers in our Revamp Project to a wide range of community and individual supports like upscaling our meals on wheels deliveries, including creches to providing and expanding our Afterschools service to support frontline workers, expanding our Friendly Phone Call service, carrying out Care and Repair Work and implementing a Community Food Initiative. The LEADER funded Local Walks developed across Duhallow were a lifeline for those affected by travel restrictions giving them safe walking and exercise facilities. All the while the other work of the company continued apace with all our staff in work each day.

I must acknowledge the support we get from Government Departments and Public Bodies and Agencies. The programmes we deliver are funded by the Departments of Rural and Community Development; Employment Affairs and Social Protection; Children and Youth Affairs; Agriculture Food and the Marine; Communications, Climate Action and Environment; Housing and Local Government; Justice and Equality; Education and Skills; as well as the HSE; Cork and Kerry Education and Training Boards; SEAI; Pobal; The Dormant Accounts Funds; Skillnet, Ireland; Túsla, National Parks and Wildlife Service, LAWPRO, Kerry County Council CEO, Cork County Council CEO.

One of the lessons from COVID-19 is the greater reliance placed on internet connectivity for many essential areas, including work, education, accessing public services, banking, and healthcare. The lack of or poor level of connectivity in much of Duhallow is still a cause for concern as is the poor level of mobile phone service.

I would like to thank all the staff and management of IRD Duhallow for their outstanding efforts during a period of significant change and uncertainty associated with COVID-19 and the current Ukrainian humanitarian crisis.

Thank you to my fellow Directors past and present for your commitment to IRD Duhallow and dedication to the wider Duhallow region. IRD Duhallow remains strong and relevant, responsive, and agile with a successful past, strong reputation, and a firm view on the future.

2021 saw the Board able to resume its off-site, externally facilitated annual Strategic Planning, which shaped and pointed the way for a refreshed strategy which will evolve over the coming year with stakeholder engagement and community engagement. We followed up with an inhouse mid-year review with our external facilitator, where Governance including succession planning was identified and followed by reviews by the Chairman and CEO which will draw up succession plans for the Board and its Committees on an ongoing basis to ensure an orderly refreshment

Breeda Moynihan Cronin CHAIRPERSON

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

2020 - 2021

Manager’s Report remaining 3 months. This is a massive cost on top of a mortgage and the usual household costs. We will be supporting the campaign to have a better government subvention to assist young families.

The year under review was a significant year for IRD Duhallow during which we successfully delivered our core programmes, expanded into several new areas of development, successfully competed for a national employment services tender, in partnership with the other Local Development Companies, and commenced a process to refresh our Working Groups. As the Covid challenge continues, the urgent reaction and response demanded by the Ukrainian Refugee crisis has tested the courage, flexibility, responsiveness, and professionalism of our entire team. We again, repurposed, redeployed, reinvented, and responded to the challenge with pace and urgency, with a driven Board and an agile, professional team of workers that I am fortunate to lead. We have facilitated and supported the amazing response of communities, volunteers, and local businesses, with new alliances formed with Red Cross, Civil Defence, and Local Authorities.

Our European Innovation Programme for Agri Environment has delivered consistently on all its targets and with over 125 farmers fully signed up to the Duhallow Farming Blue Dot on the Allow and Owentaraglin rivers the impact on Water Quality and Biodiversity will be significant.

Duhallow’s circular economy projects, Furniture Revamp and Warmer Homes retro fit programme, are making a significant impact on the reduction in the regions carbon footprint. Warmer Homes is addressing fuel poverty and reducing carbon emissions by reducing the amount of fossil fuels burned, while Duhallow Furniture Revamp takes in furniture often destined for landfill and revamping it for resale or return to the client at a reasonable cost.

Local Development Companies like IRD Duhallow have earned the trust of communities, have the governance standard, range of expertise and agility to act quickly to deliver national policy locally, across a broad range of topics, and we are accessible to government departments and agencies. This we believe was the vision of the founding fathers of LEADER in Europe.

Our Local Training Initiative supported by Cork ETB has trained learners to QQI level 4 in horticulture. This has a double impact in the community by improving people’s chances of gaining employment and by supporting local people to start to grow their own vegetables and reduce food miles.

This Progress Report provides a detailed account of the company’s activities and achievements in the past year, where Working Groups provide stakeholder engagement, oversight and guidance and staff bring the expertise necessary to fully implement the company’s strategies, maximise the benefits of the various programmes we implement for the benefit of all our communities.

Much of our Community Services Work is underpinned by DEASP funded work placement programmes such as RSS, Tús and CE as well as the Community Services Programme. While some of the schemes have had the numbers of participants cut as the unemployment numbers drop to almost full employment, these schemes are vital to participants in guiding them in progression to employment or further training and to community volunteers by supporting their work. IRD Duhallow operated an integrated model of implementation of all three schemes which, we believe benefits participants through teamwork and avoids isolation. I sit on the National Implementation Committee for RSS and Tús and welcomed Mr Tony Kearns of DEASP as chair and his colleague Shane Reynolds, with whom we have already worked. We welcome recent changes to eligibility criteria of Tús with the addition of people with disabilities and the removal of the six-year cap on participation for small holders on RSS. The ability to stay on CE past 60 until retirement is also very welcome.

LEADER got a welcome boost when Minister Heather Humphries announced Interim Funding to support new projects and their administration up to the end of 2022. The next LEADER programme will likely not go to contract until well into next year therefore communities and businesses will be relying on an extension of the interim funds. We welcome the EU Commission’s independent LEADER Evaluation and congratulate Katarina Kubinakova and John Powell of the University of Gloster who carried out the evaluation in Ireland on behalf of DG Agri. We took great heart from the findings which among other things, validated the Independent LAG structure. Our representative network ILDN has taken the findings to the Department, Government, and the European Commission. LEADER funding needs to be restored to the pre-recession level with exchequer match funding increased to balance the reduction in CAP contribution put forward by the Irish Government.

I also want to acknowledge and appreciate the immense capability and commitment of all IRD Duhallow employees and participants who worked under very difficult circumstances to progress our strategy, deliver on our commitments, and maintain essential services for the communities we serve.

The past year has seen us extend our reach to Social Farming; Kickstart to assist those on probation access work; a Ukrainian/English speaking interpreter shared with the HSE; a Community Mental Health Programme and a Rural Recreation Officer.

SICAP has been awarded the UN Public Service Award, welcomed by Minister Joe O Brien, Mary Hurley Sec General and Paul Gerraghty of the Dept of Rural and Community Development. IRD Duhallow is proud to be part of that effort.

Our SICAP Programme, although financially very small has informed our ethos, and enabled us to engage with other agencies and target groups that would otherwise be impossible to reach. Of course, the Ukrainian Refugee Supports will form a significant part of all SICAP programmes into the future. Another emerging issue that SICAP will need to address is the post Covid lockdown fallout, in terms of the impact it has had on young and old alike. While the Duhallow region has seen unemployment fall, underemployment is still a problem, we continue striving to find new approaches to meet and address social inclusion needs efficiently and sustainably, however a restoration of SICAP funding to pre-recession levels would enable IRD Duhallow to extend the reach of SICAP and include more communities and individuals than we can currently reach.

I want to acknowledge the contribution of Eileen Linehan our Assistant CEO to the ongoing success of the company. I value her professionalism, leadership qualities, commitment, flexibility, and advice. Also, Triona Dennehy and Helen O’ Sullivan of our Management Team for their dedication and hard work and the leadership and guidance they provide to their teams as well as work placement supervisors and CSP managers that contribute to the successful operations of the company.

On behalf of the Board and the Senior Management team, I would like to acknowledge the contribution of our outgoing Chairman Breeda Moynihan Cronin, who will complete her term as chair this year. Throughout her tenure as Chairman, Breeda provided strong leadership to the company and her extensive experience at regional and national level served the company well during the challenge of remote on-line Board and Working Group meetings.

We thank her sincerely for her valued contribution to IRD Duhallow.

IRD Duhallow Skillnet supports over 500 businesses annually to develop the talent and skills needed in their workforces. We are operating the network for the past 7 years and the outcomes listed include supports to almost 6,000 individuals. Childcare and Healthcare courses have become the most sought after and through our partnering with Carlow IT, deliver QQI level 8 honours degrees in childcare which, our Network of community childcare facilities see as essential to attracting, developing, and retaining essential staff in a sector that supports parents of young families to remain at work.

Board, Management, and Staff together have strengthened the position of IRD Duhallow as being respected and trusted by our Communities, Businesses, Government Agencies and Departments. We pride ourselves in our work ethic and are well recognised as having a high-performance culture.

The cost of childcare is still prohibitive and a huge barrier to participation with pressure on mothers to give up their jobs or work part time to keep the costs down. For example, even with the current government subsidies, the cost to a family of 3 children, with one in afterschools and two in full day care is €1700 per month during the 38 weeks of school term and €2,300 per month for the

Maura Walsh CEO

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2021 - 2022

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

IRD Duhallow Board Members BREEDA MOYNIHAN CRONIN

MICHAEL TWOHIG

Breeda re-joined the Board in 2014 to represent Duhallow’s Social Enterprises and is the current Chair.

Breeda was a member of Dáil Éireann from 1992 – 2007 and a member of Kerry Co. Council from 19992003 and from 2011 - 2013. Serving her community for over 20 years, her constituency included the East Kerry area of Duhallow. She is involved in a number of voluntary and charitable organisations. She was elected Chair of IRD Duhallow in 2019.

Michael is a founder member of IRD Duhallow and served as Chairman from 2011-2013 and is currently Vice Chair. He represents Kanturk Chamber of Commerce on the Board. With his wife Noreen he manages the family owned Supervalu Stores in Kanturk, Abbeyfeale and Askeaton. A keen angler and hunter he has developed a number of angling projects in Duhallow. Michael is Chairperson of the Finance Working Groups as well as being an active member of the HR Committee.

JOHN BREEN

PADRAIC O'CONNELL

John represents the Environment Working Group on the Board. He is currently Director of Services with responsibility for Environment & Water Services, Fire and Emergency services, Civil Defence and Library services as well as Municipal District manager for the Castleisland / Corca Dhuibhne Municipal District with Kerry County Council. He has also previously served as Director of Services in Limerick City and as Town Clerk in Tralee and Town Manager of Listowel and Killarney Town Councils. A native of Kilkenny city he presently resides in Castleisland.

Padraic is from Kanturk where he lives with his wife and two daughters. He is Chairman of the IRD Duhallow Enterprise Working Group. He is Head of HR at Gas Networks Ireland having held senior management roles there in Energy Policy, Commercial, PR, Marketing and Legal for the past 18 years. Padraic is actively involved in various community, school and sporting clubs in Kanturk. He is also an avid golfer and is a member of Kanturk and Killarney Golf Clubs.

ANNE MARIA BOuRKE

AMANDA O’SuLLIvAN

Anne Maria was a former Board Chair from 20152018. She represents the INTO on the Board. She is a former National School Principal and works closely with State agencies in an advisory capacity. She currently sits on the Finance and Womens Forum Working as well as acting as Chairperson of our HR Committee She is a keen bridge player and is a member of both the Brogeen and Kanturk Bridge Clubs.

Amanda comes from Boherbue and is a primary school teacher in Ballyclough National School. She was nominated to the Board of IRD Duhallow this year as the Macra Na Feirme representative. Amanda is the current chairperson of Banteer Macra, is the Rural Youth representative for Avondhu and she is also on the National Rural Youth sub-committee.

Amanda represented Macra na Feirme on a Study Session entitled “Food as a Human Rite” in Budapest this year. Amanda has previously been the PRO for her club. She is looking forward to joining the board.

CORMAC COLLINS

JAMES O'KEEFFE

Cormac is a former Chairman of IRD Duhallow holding the role from 2012 to 2015. He is from Gneeveguilla and works as a Senior Manager in the ESB. He was appointed to the Board to represent the State sector having previously served as Community Representative for Western Duhallow. He is the current chairman of Gneeveguilla Community Council, who developed a cultural centre in Gneeveguilla village,“ Teach Failte”. He serves on the HR, Finance and Community Development Working Groups.

James is the Blue Dot Farmer Representative on the Board. He is a fourth-generation dairy farmer from Lismire. He is Chairman of the Newmarket Charleville ICMSA and was elected to the National Board of the ICMSA in 2021. James was on Kerry co-op advisory committee from 2011 – 2021 and in 2018 he was elected to the Board of Directors of Kerry co-op and is a member of their strategy committee. He is an outdoor enthusiast who is married to Aine and they have two children.

JACK ROCHE

DOMINIC CRONIN

Jack is from Rockchapel and represents the Saoi Network of which he is the Chairman. A former IRD Duhallow Chairman, he sits on the Social Economy, Finance, Human Resources and Community Development Working Groups. Jack has represented IRD Duhallow on ILDN and ILDN on ELARD the European LEADER Association for Rural Development of which he is past President. Steeped in the cultural development of the region, he developed Bruach na Carraige Cultural Centre in Rockchapel, along with a dedicated Sliabh Luachra Archive and the Sliabh Luachra Cultural Trail.

Dominic joined the Board in July 2021 representing the ICMSA. He is a dairy farmer from Boherbue and is the current Chairman of Duhallow ICMSA, as well as Vice Chairman of North and East Cork ICMSA. He is currently a Member of the ICMSA National Council, Dairy Committee and a member of the ICOS Dairy Committee. Dominic has served as a Board member of Boherbue Co-Op since 2005 and is a member of the National Water Forum. He is a former Chairman of the National Dairy Council.

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

2020 - 2021

IRD Duhallow Board Members PAT BROSNAN

JOHN LYONS

Pat was elected to the Board to represent Western Duhallow in July 2020. He has over 20 years' experience as an online marketing consultant. Pat has lived in Gneeveguilla for over 40 years and has been involved in the GAA, Walking and Basketball Clubs. He is an active member Gneeveguilla Development Association. He also updates Rathmore Parish website. Pat is a member of North Cork Business Alliance and is an online advisor to Charleville Chamber of Commerce. He is the Chair of our Equality Working Group.

John represents the Mid Cork Region. He is a retired Coillte Forest Engineer. He has been involved in various projects nationally and internationally relating to harvesting technology. His current involvements include Secretary and active member of Macroom Tidy Towns, secretary of Macroom Handball / Racquetball club, Chairperson of Safeguarding Committee in Macroom Parish, Chairperson of local community association, member of the gun club, hillwalking club and an active member of Aghinagh Comhaltas Group. Married to Frances, they have 4 daughters and nine grandchildren.

BILLY DENNEHY

TOM O'RIORDAN

Billy Dennehy was elected to the Board of IRD Duhallow in May 2017 as a community representative for the Western Duhallow region. He is the chairperson of IRD Duhallow’s Community Development Working Group. He is an active member of the Kiskeam Community and is the current Development Officer of the Kiskeam Development Association and Chairman of Kiskeam GAA Club. He is working as an Area Engineer with Cork County Council. Billy is married to Emily and they have two children.

Tom O’Riordan was elected to the board in July 2019 to represent the communities of North Eastern Duhallow. A native of Kilbrin, he is married to Nora Mary and they have six children. Tom worked for many years in retail. In recent times, he retired to part time farming. He has been actively involved in the Kilbrin Community for over 40 years. Tom was one of the instigators of the heritage project, which restored Dr. Croke’s birthplace house in Kilbrin.

BILLY MuRPHY

PAuL MuRPHY

Billy hails from Lyre and was elected to the Board of IRD Duhallow to represent the South Eastern region in 2018. He is a founding member and current Chairperson of the Lyre Community Culture, Sport and Leisure Association where he has overseen large scale community development projects in Lyre village. Billy is also a long standing member of Banteer, Lyre Nadd District Community Council. Billy works in the Water Section of Cork County Council and is an avid community volunteer.

Paul is from Newmarket where he lives with his wife and two children. Paul works in Cork College of FET – Mallow Campus where he has been deputy principal since 2013. He was nominated to the Board in July 2022 to represent the communities of North Eastern Duhallow. Paul is currently involved in a number of voluntary organisation and serves as chairperson of Newmarket Juvenile GAA and vice chairperson of Newmarket Sports & Leisure and is a member of the Board of Management for the local primary school.

GERALDINE O'LEARY

JuDY O'LEARY

Geraldine was elected to the Board of IRD Duhallow in July 2021 representing South Eastern Duhallow.

She is the current vice chair of the Enterprise Working Group. Living in Millstreet with her family, Geraldine is a volunteer on Millstreet Town Park Committee. She recently concluded a 20-year tenure with Aon Ireland to focus on family life and other commitments.

During her career at Aon she progressed to the role of Senior Retirement Consultant, managing a portfolio of multinational clients and trustee groups.

Judy first joined the Board of IRD Duhallow in 1997 representing womens’ groups. She Chairs the Women and Childcare Working Group and is a member of the HR Working Group. Judy is a founding member of the Duhallow Women’s Forum. She hails from Dromtariffe and is actively involved in her local community. She is a long standing member of the Irish Country Women’s Association and is a member of the Kiskeam Guild. She has also served as Vice Chairperson of IRD Duhallow for three years.

MARGARET MCSWEENEY

SuZANNE CAMPION

Margaret was elected to the Board in 2019. She is involved with a number of various boards and committees in her community on a voluntary basis.

Margaret served as Parent’s representative for 6 years on her local secondary school’s Board of Management which granted her with an invaluable background in decision making and communications. She is currently the Child Officer in her local GAA club where she is responsible for the provision of child safe guarding courses and Garda vetting.

Suzanne joined the Board of IRD Duhallow in 2005.

She represents Inland Fisheries Ireland where she has held the position of Head of Business Development for IFI the past 12 years. Suzanne has previously worked as a manager and accountant in the public and private sectors. As head of Business Development with IFI, her focus is on developing habitat, angling infrastructure, angling marketing and education and outreach. Suzanne represents IFI on the Boards of a number of other tourism and rural development strategy groups.

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IRD Duhallow Board Members DAvID DOYLE

CLLR. GOBNAIT MOYNIHAN

David Doyle joined the Board in July 2015, as a nominee of the Chief Executive of Kerry County Council. David holds the position of Senior Engineer in the Operations & Safety section of Kerry County Council. He is currently working on the development of proposals for URDF projects in Killarney and Tralee, and RRDF projects in Caherciveen and Valentia Cable Station. He previously worked in Roads directorate and as Killarney Town Engineer. David lives in Beaufort, Killarney and is an active member of the local Tidy Towns.

Gobnait joined the Board of IRD Duhallow in June 2016. Gobnait was elected as a County Councillor by the people of Millstreet / Macroom Municipal District, and has been representing the people of the area since 2016. Gobnait works closely with her brother Aindrias Moynihan TD to represent the people of the area. The IRD Duhallow region was expanded to incorporate the greater Macroom, Inchigeelagh, Rylane area. Gobnait continues to build bonds between IRD Duhallow’s existing networks and communities in her own constituency.

CLLR. MAuRA HEALY RAE

CLLR. MARTIN COuGHLAN

Cllr Maura Healy Rae joined the Board of IRD Duhallow in March of 2016. She has served as an independent Councillor for the Killarney Municipal District, since 2016. Maura is the fourth of the six Healy-Rae children of Danny and his wife Eileen. Her constituency includes the East Kerry area, so she is very familiar with Duhallow and the projects and work that have been carried out in her region. Maura works as an English and History teacher in St. Brogan’s College, Bandon.

Martin joined the Board of IRD Duhallow in 2019. He is a member of Cork County Council representing the Macroom Municipal District. Martin was previously a Town Councillor in Macroom for 20 years. Martin is a retired FAS supervisor who lives in Macroom and is an active Community worker. He is the current Chairman of the Macroom Tidy Towns group and on the Board of Directors of the Briery Gap and also works with the Lee Valley Enterprise Board.

CLLR. FIONNÁN FITZGERALD

CLLR. IAN DOYLE

Cllr Fionnán Fitzgerald is a secondary teacher and was elected Councillor for the Castleisland Area in the recent local elections of May 2019. He was nominated to the Board of IRD Duhallow to represent Kerry County Council and is the current Cathaoirleach of Castleisland-Corca Dhuibhne. He has been a community activist for many years particularly in the field of social inclusion for our elderly, community alert groups and also the provision of sport for our youth.

Ian Doyle joined the Board in 2019. Hailing from Charleville, he was a founding member of Charleville Agricultural Show. He is a member of the St Vincent de Paul and is Vice Chairman of the Charleville Heritage Society, Chairperson of the Charleville Tidy Towns Committee and he is currently a board member of Ballyhoura Development, Charleville Sheltered Housing and Community Care, Charleville Community Hall, Charleville Chamber, and Newtownshandrum Community Association. He also sits on the Board of Management of St Marys Secondary School and the CBS Primary School Charleville.

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IRD Duhallow CLG. Company Structure IRD Duhallow is a Community based Rural Development Company established in 1989.

It is a Company Limited by Guarantee without share capital. It has charitable status and our directors are voluntary and receive no remuneration for their services.

The Board of IRD Duhallow adheres to the Governance Code Principles Statement since 2013 and is listed on the Register of Compliance. The Constitution reflects best practice and is in accordance with the Charities Act, 2011. The Board membership reflects the integration of Social Inclusion and Rural Development, the importance of the environment and community volunteers and the democratically elected Local Authority Members. Reflective of the integrated nature of our work, the Company’s Board and Sub Committee Structures have evolved over the years and enjoy a massive amount of good will and voluntary contribution in the region.

WHAT WE HAVE ACHIEVED SINCE 1989: 1678 1500 197 485 14,370 4343 230

1678

Upwards of 3,500 people, participate from the bottom up through these structures. IRD Duhallow has a number of Working Groups with representatives from our Board and staff as well as community and State sector representatives. This structure allows us to targets specific expertise beneficial to the implementation of the strategic aims assigned to the particular working group. IRD Duhallow continues to strive for excellence through the ongoing training and development of our staff. We have attained the Excellence Through People Standard, Ireland’s standard for Human Resource Management which is now administered by the National Standards Authority of Ireland.

Social Economy

Women & Childcare

RELOVE PAINT WARMER HOMES REVAMP COMMUNITY LAUNDRY

WOMEN’S FORUM NORTH CORK CHILDCARE NETWORK

Jobs Created Businesses Supported Community Groups Supported Community Work Placements Supported Training Places Created Homes Insulated Tonnes of Furniture Diverted from Landfill

230

1500 197

4343 14,370

Youth & Education

485

Community Development GEOGRAPHIC

COMMUNITY CARE

CULTURE & HERITAGE

Equality UKRAINIAN RESPONSE DISABILITY STRIVE MIGRANTS

Community Forum

CARE & REPAIR

Employment & Training

BOARD

Enterprise & Tourism ENTERPRISE SKILLNET DUHALLOW ANGLING

BEFRIENDING NETWORK

FRIENDLY PHONE CALL SERVICE

2022

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT

Social Partners

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT

Agriculture SOCIAL FARMING BEE KEEPERS EIP BLUE DOT - ARAGLEN

Statutory Agencies

Local Authorities

FAMILY CARERS

Environment LIFE STEERING GROUP CONSERVATION NETWORK COMMUNITY BIODIVERSITY Operational Sub-Committees

Independent Evaluation Committee Strategic Working Groups

Finance

Strategic Working Group Sub-Committees

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Human Resources Independent Evaluation Committee

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Details of Staff EILEEN LINEHAN (Econ & Geog), MBS (Business Economics), Dip. Personnel Mng. Dip in Public Procurement EU funded projects.

Eileen is the Assistant Manager and has responsibility for the Enterprise team, which includes Skillnet, WHS, Social Enterprise Regeneration Programme, Community Employment, LEADER Programme & EIP. She supports the Manager in the day-to-day running of the company including Human Resources & the financial operations of a number of programmes. Eileen represents Local Development Companies on Cork County Childcare Committee, which she currently chairs. Eileen is a Trustee of the Pobal Pension Scheme.

HELEN O’SuLLIvAN B.Soc.Sc., M.Soc.Sc, DipCom,Leadership & Mgt,Cert in Agri.

Helen is the Community Services Team Leader with 17 years’ experience in the sector. She currently oversees the Rural Community Health Initiative, STRIVE, Social Farming, Newmarket Afterschools and the Job Centre. Helen has taken on a key role in managing our community response to the Ukrainian Crisis, overseeing the rollout of our supports to Millstreet and Banteer accommodation centres as well as to individuals settled in the community.

Helen also works closely with communities in South and North Eastern Duhallow to access supports and funding through LEADER & SICAP. She also oversees the Community Development and Youth Working Groups.

TRIONA MuRPHY MBS Cooperative and Social Enterprise, B.Sc Public Health & Health Promotion, IMCV Professional Manager Award, Training Delivery & Evaluation(QQIL6).

Triona is Employment, Training and Social Inclusion Coordinator with overall responsibility for the SICAP Programme. She is the Coordinator of the Towards Occupation Programme and oversees the Equality and Training briefs including: the Ability Programme, Duhallow REVAMP, the Walks Scheme, RSS and Tús. She works with communities in Western Duhallow to access LEADER funding and supports the work of both the Community and Youth and Education Working Groups.

LOuISE BOuRKE B.C.L., Masters in Criminal Justice, Masters in Management, Dip in Learning and Development, Cert in Agri., IMCV Professional Manager Award; Training Delivery & Evaluation(QQIL6).

Louise joined IRD Duhallow in November 2010, as the Enterprise and Tourism Development Officer, coordinating the Enterprise and Tourism support measures of LEADER and SICAP. Louise implements the skillnet programme in the region, coordinating quality affordable training for local businesses and she is the appointed staff liaison for the Enterprise Working Group. She also oversees the publication of Discover Duhallow which is distributed around the communities on a fortnightly basis.

NOLLAIG MuRPHY Masters of Social Work, H. Dip. Social Policy, B.A. (hons. Sociology and History), Q.Q.I. level 6 Training Delivery and Evaluation.

STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN M.A International Tourism, B.A (Hon.) Business in Tourism, Training Delivery & Evaluation (QQI L6), Supervisory Management (QQI L6).

Nollaig joined the staff of IRD Duhallow in 2017 on a parttime basis. She works as a Development Officer and assists in the co-ordination of both the LEADER and SICAP Programmes. Nollaig is involved with IRD Duhallow’s integration of new communities remit and equality work, as well as the LEADER funded historic graveyard projects. She also works as a tutor on the weekly Touch, Type, Read and Spell classes, part of IRD Duhallow’s Literacy Programme for children.

Stephanie joined IRD Duhallow in August 2018 and is a Development Officer as part of the Community and Employment Team supporting communities with the process of grant applications and claims. She is the staff resource for IRD Duhallow Jobs Centre and CV Clinic service, the Duhallow Carers Network, Saoi network, Women’s Forum and Dormant Accounts programme and coordinates a wide range of community education events.

Stephanie is IRD Duhallow’s Communications Officer on the ILDN Communications Working Group and a regular contributor to the Discover Duhallow magazine.

BRÍGHID-ÍDE WALSH M.Ed Early Intervention, B.A Hons Child and Adolescent, Training Delivery and Evaluation QQI 6.

MONICA GILMORE Diploma In Business, Digital Marketing Institute Professional, Training & Development QQI Level 6.

Bríghid-Íde commenced work with IRD Duhallow in 2019.

As a Development Officer she covers areas including Equality, Youth, Employment and Training. She is the Afterschools Co-ordinator, Assistant Coordinator for Local Training Initiative in Horticulture and Co-ordinator of IRD Duhallow’s STRIVE programme. Bríghid-Íde supports the implementation of strategic actions for IRD Duhallow by engaging specific groups including people with disabilities, children and youths, older people and in particular people experiencing rural isolation and social exclusion. Bríghid-Íde is the staff resource for the Equality Working Group.

Monica joined the IRD Duhallow team in June 2021 as Development Officer on the Enterprise Team, assisting with our Skillnet Programme. She also coordinates the enterprise and tourism LEADER funding. She brings many years of hospitality management, business development and marketing experience with her from her time in Washington DC and Ireland. She has previously held the position of secretary with Charleville Chamber of Commerce and has been a board member with local tourism development groups for many years.

P.J. MuRPHY MA Sociology (Youth, Community and Social Regeneration), B.A. Economics and Sociology.

MAJELLA CANTY Masters of Social Policy, BComm (Hons).

PJ joined IRD Duhallow in November 2021 as the Social Enterprise Development Officer. PJ works with social enterprises from around Duhallow by organising training and workshops in the areas of digital innovation, strategic planning, income diversification and governance. PJ also arranges mentoring session between skilled professionals and the managers and staff of purpose driven social enterprises in Duhallow. PJ is experienced in qualitative and quantitative social research methods which can be used for consultation research.

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Majella took up the position of Rural Community Health Worker (RCHW) at IRD Duhallow in February 2022. The role of the RCHW is to support and signpost people to activities which promote wellbeing. Majella has worked in community health for over a decade supporting the development and delivery of health initiatives which address health inequalities and help achieve better outcomes for people and communities. A graduate of University College Cork, Majella holds a Masters in Social Policy, as well as an Honours degree in Commerce.

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Details of Staff JACKIE KELLY BBus Honours, Bachelor of Business, BBus Advanced Certificate in Accounting Training Delivery & Evaluation (QQI L6).

Jackie joined IRD Duhallow in September 2020 and is the Accounts Manager. She is responsible for creating and implementing internal financial control procedures. She presents financial reports for management and the Board of Directors monthly and also prepares financial returns for programs such as LEADER and SICAP. Jackie monitors Budgets and prepares variance analysis along with commentary. As part of her role she liaises with company auditors for year-end accounts.

MAGGIE O’CALLAGHAN Maggie joined IRD Duhallow in January 2020. She is currently supporting the finance department through the preparation and processing of monthly accounts for a number of our community services. Maggie is responsible for compiling associated financial reports, which are presented at the monthly Board and Social Economy Working Group meetings, whilst also offering support to Management within these divisions. Maggie liaises with the company auditors for the preparation of the year-end financial statement.

MARGARET O’CONNOR MAAT-Accounting Technician, AIPA – Payroll Technician Margaret is the Senior Accounts Administrator and has been employed by IRD Duhallow for twenty-five years. She is responsible for preparing monthly accounts for EIP Blue Dot, EIP Araglen & EIP Farm payments Programmes and completes quarterly returns to Department of Agriculture .

She is also responsible for preparing IRD Duhallow Skillnet Programme Monthly Accounts and Bank Reconciliations.

She supports the Skillnet Programme in recording the financial details of course participants. She completes entries on a monthly basis to Skillnet SONRAI Accounts financial system.

MICHAEL MORRISSEY MSc Applied Science in Ecological Assessment, BSc Hons Agri. Science.

Michael joined as the Agri-environmental specialist for the Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot Catchments and Araglen EIP Project in April 2019. In his current role, he oversees the day to day running of the project liaising with the project farmers and industry stakeholders. He is responsible for the field surveying, monitoring of measures, verification of measures for payment and farmer training. He is responsible for stakeholder interaction through Farmer training courses, group meetings, Department of Agriculture and other relevant stakeholder meetings.

MICHAEL O’CONNOR MSc Sustainable Development, BSc Applied Plant Biology.

DERvAL CORBETT ECDL, Cert in Supervisory Management.

Mike joined IRD Duhallow in November 2020 as the Project Scientist for the Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot Catchments EIP project where he is responsible for the monitoring of water quality and biodiversity on project farms. Mike also provides administrative support to the Duhallow Beekeepers Association and is responsible for many of the company’s LEADER-funded biodiversity projects. In January 2022, he also began working as the Project Ecologist on the Owentaraglin River EIP. Mike is staff resource for the Environment Working Group and has recently set up Duhallow Conservation Volunteer Network.

Derval Joined the staff of IRD Duhallow in 1999 on a parttime basis. She is employed as a clerical officer and is based in the Reception and Administration Office where she deals with initial queries to the company and supports Management and Staff with administration assistance. Her areas of responsibility include the company’s stationery requirements and is editor of the monthly Newsletter, which is circulated to over 14,000 homes in Duhallow.

Derval is one of the Liaison Persons with the National Vetting Bureau on behalf of Partnership Companies supporting Garda Vetting Applications nationally.

RACHEL BuDD B.A. Hons Sociology, QQI Level 6 Training and Development, Cert in Community Development, Cert in Therapeutic Horticulture.

SHEILA KELLEHER MSc Co-operatives, Agri-Food & Sustainable Development, Bachelor of Social Science.

Rachel joined IRD Duhallow in 2014 as a Horticultural Trainer, working with Tús participants and members of the T.O group and Cope Foundation trainees to create the award winning IRD Duhallow Community Gardens. In March 2016 she became the Co-ordinator for the Local Training Initiative in Horticulture, which is currently in its 6th year at IRD Duhallow. She also works closely with the local GIY group which meet monthly at the James O’Keefe Institute.

Sheila joined IRD Duhallow in September 2021 as the Social Farming Facilitator for the Duhallow Social Farming Project, which offers people with disabilities the opportunity to spend time on a family farm, taking part in day-to-day farm activities. She is responsible for recruiting and supporting host farmers and project participants. Sheila also works on the STRIVE programme, supporting young people with disabilities to achieve their goals through a range of person-centred supports.

JuLIE O’FLAHERTY BBS Bachelor of Business Studies & Finance, Training Delivery & Evaluation QQI6.

GRAINNE O’LEARY Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Masters of Law (LLM), Higher Diploma in Accounting & Corporate Finance (H Dip ACF).

Julie joined IRD Duhallow in March 2015 and is part of the Finance department. Her primary responsibilities are in relation to the management of accounts for various programmes within the organisation. Her role includes undertaking revenue returns, banking reports, and preparation of supplier payments. She is also responsible for the Creditors payments function and Debtors accounts reconciliation’s within Duhallow Community Foods on a monthly basis.

Gráinne joined the accounts team in October 2021. Gráinne is primarily responsible for the Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable function with accounts to be updated on a monthly basis. She also creates and further strengthens our internal financial controls. Gráinne produces and presents financial reports for management and the Board of Directors on a monthly basis. She assists in the production of financial returns for Afterschools, RSS and Tús.

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Details of Staff MARIE FLEMING BSc Rural Development; Supervisory Management (QQI L6); Payroll Manual & Computerise (QQI L 5); Certificate in Health & Safety in the Workplace.

Marie is supervisor of the Rural Social Scheme and oversees the participant’s placements throughout the Duhallow region. She is secretary of the Health and Safety Committee and coordinates company training and development in line with Excellence Through People guidelines. Her other duties include overseeing the Company’s IT and Phone Systems and ensures we are compliant with national bodies such as the Charities and Lobbying Regulator and the Standards in Public Office.

COLM CROWLEY Diploma in Rural Development, Certificate in Business Studies, IMCV Professional Manager Award, Building Energy Rating Assessor, Manual Handling Instructor (QQI L6).

Colm joined IRD Duhallow in July 2007 as the Warmer Homes Scheme Coordinator and is responsible for the Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme, Home Incentive Scheme and Better Energy Communities. Colm coordinates staff training in line with NSAI’s Cavity Wall Insulation System. Colm is responsible for the preparation of monthly accounts for Warmer Homes and processes the Payroll on a weekly basis. Colm chairs IRD Duhallow’s Health and Safety Committee and oversees the Pitch and Putt.

COLM O’CONNOR Supervisory Management (QQI L6), Training Delivery & Evaluation (QQI L6), Manual Handling Instructor (QQI L6). Major Award In Carpentry And Joinery (QQI L6).

Colm joined IRD Duhallow and the Furniture Revamp Team in 2016. He was appointed RSS Supervisor in November 2021 with responsibility for coordinating and supervising participants placed in a number of settings. Colm also looks after the transport portfolio in the company and coordinates the maintenance of our fleet of vehicles. In addition Colm is a member of the Health and Safety committee and is one of the in-house manual handling instructor.

MARIIA PALCHAK Masters in Philology, English and French language and literature, Cert in Administration.

Mariia joined IRD Duhallow on a part time basis in June 2022 as part of the Community Services Team working specifically on the Ukrainian response. She is the Ukrainian Refugees` Support Worker and through this role, acts as an English/Ukrainian translator. As part of her day to day activities, Mariia helps the team to communicate with Ukrainian Refugees, and assists the team in developing supports to help integrate refugees into the wider Duhallow community.

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PADDY O’CONNOR Community Employment Supervisor Paddy is the Supervisor of our CE scheme and has over 21 years’ experience. He focuses his work on engaging with the participants to motivate them and to help them identify their strengths and develop these strengths through their work placements and through training.

Paddy completes detailed Individual Learning Plans with the Participants on a one to one basis to enhance their skills for full time employment. He also works with the local communities agreeing the work to be carried out where the Community Employment participants are placed.

DON MuRPHY Cert in Archaeology ; Cert in Oral History; Training Delivery and Evaluation (QQI L6).

Don was appointed Tús Supervisor in June 2011. His main areas of responsibility include placement, induction, training and supervision of scheme participants in the areas of built heritage renovation and vintage machinery restoration. Don has over 20 years’ experience as a subcontractor in the construction industry in Ireland and abroad. He is a master craftsman and stonemason and trains participants on the LTI, T.O and other in house programmes.

NuALA RIORDAN Supervisory Management (QQIL6), BER Assessor, Cert. in Genealogy and Family History, Manual Handling Instructor (QQIL6).

Nuala joined IRD Duhallow in Nov 2008 as an administrator.

She became part of the Warmer Homes team and was their BER Assessor. She joined the LIFE Project in Nov 2012, as clerical field officer. In August 2016 she became Tús supervisor. Nuala continues the work of the Raptor AfterLIFE actions and educates school children on the environment. She administrates the RSS and Tús schemes.

Nuala leads the walks for IRD Duhallow and oversees the necessary maintenance of them.

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Environment projects and have applied for funding through LAWPRO. One group, the Friends of the Dripsey Rivers, received a commendation from Cork Environment Forum at their annual awards under the best community group award. Mike O’ Connor presented the project at LAWPRO’s annual Communities Caring for Water Conference and received huge interest.

This was a pilot project and there are now over 20 local development companies across the country rolling out similar projects in 2022.

Communities Planting for Biodiversity Communities Planting for Biodiversity is a LEADER funded project that aims to improve and promote biodiversity in the Duhallow region. The project enables Duhallow communities to plant native hedgerows, woodland plants, fruit bushes, fruit trees, herbs, and bulbs. This helps our biodiversity by providing ecological corridors, nesting cover, food and shelter. Communities were invited to attend biodiversity training in October and November 2021 to give them an in-depth understanding of biodiversity Ian McGrigor conducting a living willow fence conservation and teach them workshop as part of the Communities planting techniques. Training Planting for Biodiversity LEADER project topics included: an intro to composting and wildflower meadows, planting native hedgerows, woodland management and edible community gardens.

Achieving the UN Sustainable Goals is very important to IRD Duhallow. Many of our projects are relevant to several of the SDGs such as (13.) Climate Action, (14.) Life Below Water, and (15.) Life On Land.

The environment has been one of the 4 pillars of IRD Duhallow’s strategic plan since our inception. Under the stewardship of Chair Michael Doyle, the working group has made great strides in developing a range of environmental projects across Duhallow. We are the only local development company to have secured two major EU Life programmes. We continue to promote projects that positively impact the environment we live in. One of the key objectives of the Environment Working Group is to raise awareness about environmental issues with an emphasis on safeguarding endangered species and habitats.

Duhallow Conservation Volunteer Network The Duhallow Conservation Volunteer Network is the Duhallow Environment Working Group’s newest LEADER-funded project. This project aims to help set up a volunteer network to assist with many of IRD Duhallow’s environmental projects. Members will work on projects such as riparian tree planting, Barn Owl nest box construction, invasive species management, citizen science and native tree saving.

Himalayan Balsam, Impatiens glandulifera, is an invasive species that has been targeted by Workshops and demonstrations previous IRD Duhallow projects. The will be held to further the skillset Duhallow Conservation Volunteer network of member volunteers. The may tackle invasive species such as this on network has already commenced Duhallow rivers. actions by engaging in macroinvertebrate identification workshops ahead of the 2022 survey season.

River Feale Baseline Study IRD Duhallow collaborated with West Limerick Resources and NEWKD to conduct a baseline survey of the River Feale which flows through the counties of Cork, Kerry and Limerick. A laypersons report is being drafted and a launch of the report will take place later in 2022. The results of this survey will inform future efforts to protect this beautiful river.

A Grey Heron, Ardea cinerea, photographed on the River Feale by Seán McInerney

Anaerobic Digestor Feasibility Study IRD Duhallow in collaboration with the Gas Networks Ireland Innovation fund and LEADER funding completed a 10-month feasibility study into the suitability of Duhallow for the construction and thereafter running of an anaerobic digestor facility. The aim of the project overall was to investigate the integration of anaerobic digestion into a catchment scale approach with associate benefits such as effective nutrient management and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Duhallow Water Biodiversity Training Project The Environment working group secured LEADER funding in 2020 for a community training programme focusing on water biodiversity. IRD Duhallow worked closely with LAWPRO (the Local Authority for Water Programmes) to develop this project and environmental NGO Cork Nature Network were selected to deliver the training. The programme was initiated in April 2021. Over 50 participants were trained, and nine subcatchment water action groups were formed. Some of these Duhallow Water Biodiversity Training participants have since started their own

The funding, totalling €50,000, was used to employ a renewable energy consultancy, XD Consultants, to conduct an in-depth study into the suitability of the region. The consultants examined potential locations for the AD plant, sourcing of feedstocks and a spatial analysis including road connectivity, demographics, land type and farmer or supplier attitudes towards an anaerobic digestor hub in the region. IRD Duhallow held a stakeholder meeting November 2021 with Gas Networks Ireland, local Agri co-ops, ICOS, EIP project farmers and AIB to discuss the next stage approach following the study.

conducting kicksamples.

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EIP Blue Dot The Duhallow Blue Dot EIP project began in 2019 and aims to protect, restore, and enhance the quality of freshwater in the rivers and streams of the Allow River catchment. Participation has increased amongst the farming community of Duhallow with the original target for the project to have 85 applicants by the end of An EIP project farm sign erected on the farm the 2021 calendar year. As the of Mark Nunan project moves into its fourth year it has a total of 94 active farmers. We have in total received 125 expression of interest forms from prospective applicants. Project farmers in the EIP are implementing a wide range of measures in the project to protect and enhance the biodiversity of not only the river but also adjacent lands throughout the catchment.

Digester Hub. The study was conducted by XD Consultancy and completed in December 2021. As part of the consultation process for the study the project team facilitated both a farmer survey with the EIP project farmers and a stakeholder meeting. The stakeholder meeting was conducted in November 2021 with local Dairy co-ops, banks, GNI, and ICOS attending.

Schools’ Information Day at the James O’Keeffe Institute Marquee September 2021

Project Results Based Payments & Bespoke Measures Surveying of habitats and implemented measures was conducted on 85 land holdings last summer. Once measures were verified, payment was approved subject to a DAFM cross check. In 2021 we surveyed and verified both results-based measures and additional proposed or bespoke measures periodically. A total of €184,940 was verified and paid out to project farmers for 2021.

These payments were a combination of results-based payments and for the implementation of additional proposed works such as riparian tree planting, farm roadway upgrades to prevent silt run-off and alternative water sources.

Michael O'Connor performing a kick sample on The project uses a multi-faceted the river Dalua approach to achieving the aims of protecting, restoring, and enhancing the water quality in the catchment. Where an issue was identified at farm level impacting water quality or biodiversity in the riparian zone the project farmer was issued an updated plan with a bespoke measure to compliment the resultsbased measures. These additional proposed works can be funded up to 100% for the project farmer depending on its benefit to water quality, the environment or biodiversity.

Public Awareness & Communication Campaign The project team placed a large emphasis on running a public awareness campaign in 2021 with a number of areas targeted including stakeholder visits, schools’ visits, farm signage, project literature and social media. The project hosted several industry stakeholders over the course of 2021 & 2022 including, the Ulster Famers Union, Ulster wildlife, LAWPRO, Teagasc, Local Co-ops and CIEMM. We visited several schools throughout the Duhallow region with both classroom presentations and field trips to local rivers and streams to carry out a practical kick sample for biological sampling of macro-invertebrates. To inform the wider community on the importance of rivers with high status water quality in Blue Dot catchments the project team developed farm signs for the project farms participating in the EIP. Farmer Training & Information Events

The collection of baseline monitoring data with an invertebrate sample on the river Dalua

Farmer training, workshops and knowledge transfer constitute a core requirement for the project. The first project training event covered topics such as farm nutrient management, biological sampling of water quality and citizen science. Key areas that farmers will be encouraged to report on will be the biodiversity value of newly created or restored habitats, the farmyard connection drain, the use of macroinvertebrates as bio indicators of water quality, and the assessment of deposited sediment in instream habitats and drainage ditches. A number of field events were held this past year on demonstration farms. Industry stakeholders attended specialised events including ASSAP, Kerry Agri, North Cork Creameries and Grassland Agro on soil biological activity, soil health, grassland management and reducing chemical fertiliser inputs on farms.

Project Collaborations

From Left IRD Duhallow staff Michael O'Connor & Michael Morrissey with Tony Ahern EIP Project farmer & Fran Igoe LAWPRO

IRD Duhallow EIP collaborated with a number of industry stakeholders throughout 2021 including LAWPRO, Gas Network’s Ireland and local dairy co-ops.

Several collaborations with LAWPRO including a farm roadway upgrade to prevent silt run-off, a riparian tree planting project and information booklets for schools were completed. In collaboration with the GNI innovation fund and LEADER we conducted a 10-month feasibility study into the suitability of the Duhallow region for an Anaerobic

Student Placements Student placements commenced with the project for the first time in 2021 with the arrival of four third year wildlife biology students from the Munster Technical University. The students performed a number of tasks such as administration, mapping and surveying for biodiversity and some practical training in measures scoring and water quality biological sampling.

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EIP Owentaraglin Introduction

land every year to erosion. This is an issue the project aims to tackle through riverbank stabilisation measures such as riparian tree planting.

Measures to restrict livestock access to the river such as fencing and installation of alternative drinking sources also help to stabilise the riverbank.

In early 2021 the government announced an open call for new EIP-Agri projects. This was the fifth call for EIP projects and was called the Farm and Community Biodiversity Initiative. Originally €1.25 million in funding had been allocated but after receiving a huge amount of interest this was upgraded to €3 million on the back of our Allow Blue Dot EIP. IRD Duhallow applied for funding for an agrienvironmental project on the River Owentaraglin for a period of one year.

The application was approved and we were awarded €198,870, making this the second biggest project from the 24 successful projects that received funding under the call. The project commenced in January 2022 and at present there are 22 participating farmers.

Project Measures As every farm is unique, the project team work alongside the farmer to develop measures that work for that farm and best benefit the river. The team identify potential issues or areas for improvement and then agree with the farmer on the measures that should be implemented. A wide range of measures have been selected including farm roadway upgrades, silt settlement ponds, riparian tree planting and alternative drinking source installation.

Many of these measures have dual benefits. For example, planting trees will A solar-powered pump and trough eliminates the need stabilise the riverbank and for a cattle access point will also provide a habitat for biodiversity, sowing a multi-species sward will reduce fertiliser input and will also provide a greater food source for pollinators.

The River Owentaraglin The River Owentaraglin, known locally as the Araglen, is a powerful, meandering river that rises north-east of Ballydesmond and enters the Blackwater east of Rathmore. Along its course, it flows through the towns of Kiskeam and Cullen. The river is ‘high-status objective’ under the current River Basin Management Plan, meaning its protection is of priority The River Owentaraglin concern. A survey commissioned by IRD Duhallow in 2020 found that populations of critically endangered Freshwater Pearl Mussel inhabit the river and surveys from previous IRD Duhallow projects demonstrate that the river is also an important habitat for Atlantic Salmon, Brown Trout and Lamprey species. The Owentaraglin is very well-known across the country as an angling river.

Setting an Example Baseline Data In preparation for the Owentaraglin River EIP, IRD Duhallow ecologists conducted surveys of the river for biological and physicochemical indicators. The results from this survey were promising in the uppermost stretches of the river but the team found concerning results as they moved further downstream.

Under the third cycle of the River Basin Management Plan, parts of the river are deemed to be ‘At Risk’ of not meeting their objectives under the Water Framework Directive. Agriculture and urban wastewater have previously been identified by the EPA as significant pressures on parts of the river.

Riparian planting on the Owentaraglin south of Kiskeam The river is ‘At Risk’ under the third River Basin Management Plan

The lessons learned from this project will help to inform future agrienvironmental schemes and policies. A farmer survey will be conducted at the end of 2022 that will contain questions specific to the measures implemented on each farmer’s land. This will provide a useful resource for farmers across the country who are interested in implementing similar measures on their own farms. The project has also acquired a drone and informative videos will be made to demonstrate how to implement water quality measures such as farm roadway upgrades and pond installation, using the work done by Owentaraglin River EIP farmers as case studies.

Sean Murphy, Owentaraglin River EIP farmer,

Sediment Deposition

A fence post close to falling into the river due to riverbank erosion

Although it is natural for a river to erode its banks and deposit sediment, excess sediment deposition can be extremely harmful as sediment can carry nitrate and phosphate into the river and sediment can also smother juvenile Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Atlantic Salmon eggs, and insects essential in the food chain. High levels of riverbank erosion on the River Owentaraglin are a lose-lose situation for both farmers and the river as farmers lose significant amounts of

has recently fenced a tributary of the river under the project

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After LIFE The RaptorLIFE project expanded on SAMOK IRD Duhallow’s first LIFE project and targeted habitat restoration for annexed species (Hen harrier, Merlin, Atlantic salmon and Brook lamprey) in the Upper Blackwater SAC and the Stacks to the Mullaghareiks, West Limerick Hills and Mount Eagle Special Protected Area (SPA) with a fund of €3 million. This fund was co-financed by the EU. It ran from February 2015 to December 2019.

invasives. IRD Duhallow’s integral part in the local community has been paramount in bringing about this ‘buy in’ and this in turn has heightened the awareness of the project and its aim in the area. This collaboration also helps in the AfterLIFE of the project.

Thirty landowners farming in a Rich biodiversity of hummocks of sphagnum and other heath flora. designated area and ten farmers who farmed just outside the designated area partook in the survey of ‘farming in designated lands’. This extensive survey took place in 2016 and was repeated two years later, to catch any change of opinion. A by-product of this survey was the production of a book called ‘Duhallow – A living landscape for farming and wildlife’. This publication highlights the issues of farming in designated lands in Duhallow, its history/culture and how these pressures evolved – a farmer’s voice. A worthy read depicting the changing face of the countryside through intensification of farming practices, expansion of conifer plantations, the ever-increasing construction of wind farms. This together with the conflicting agricultural policies and environmental designations result in negative effects on the local communities, habitats and annexed species. This book is available in IRD Duhallow.

Merlin have almost disappeared from the Mullaghareirks SPA where much of its habitat has been lost to afforestation, windfarm activity, recreational use of forest tracks including quads and scrambler bikes, all place disturbance pressures on a shy species like Merlin.

Project objectives This project aimed to work with the local community to achieve a better environment for everyone in Duhallow. "Connecting and restoring habitats for Hen harrier, Merlin, Atlantic salmon and Brook lamprey in Duhallow, Ireland".

Brook lamprey live in our rivers and require clean gravels to spawn in.

Actions which were integral to this project were changing public attitudes by addressing public perceptions, involving landowners in conservation measures, monitoring of Hen harrier and Merlin. Riparian habitat restoration measures were carried out for Atlantic salmon and Brook lamprey.

The Hen harrier and Merlin sign erected in Meelin adjacent to the Mullaghareirks.

Project actions and AfterLIFE The Project produced a management plan for Hen harrier and Merlin in a designated site. Also developed was a guide to habitat management and invasive species management. The Afterlife plan of the project was also compiled. This plan included the maintenance of the habitat restoration, the monitoring and the project dissemination.

The project area comprises of two Natura 2000 sites: the Special Area of Conservation in the River Blackwater for the Freshwater pearl mussel and the Special Protected Area of the Mullaghareirks for the Hen harrier.

AfterLIFE objectives The AfterLIFE objectives of this project are to ensure the maintenance of the measures carried out in the RaptorLIFE project.

The measures are being achieved with assistance of a combination of IRD Duhallow staff, RSS/Tús participants, students/volunteers according to each individual measure. This ensures the longterm effects of the project.

Landowners Landowners and farmers ‘bought in’ to the project with habitat restoration, allowing unlimited access on their lands for project actions such as surveys, monitoring, eradication of

A number of stakeholders had supported the project during the course of its lifetime. IRD Duhallow, implemented other actions through the Rural Social Scheme and Tús. Volunteerism also plays an important role and university/college placement students aided some of the actions.

The continued support roles of students, volunteers ensure the maintenance of a certain number of these actions. They help deliver actions such as winter roost and nest monitoring of Hen harrier. Along with others assisting in invasive species eradication. Rural Social scheme and Tús participants play key roles in the roll out of the AfterLIFE plan, primarily in the treatment of the highly invasive Japanese knotweed, both on the rivers* and two infested streams (83.3km)and road network (298 stands over 300km of roads).

Also the eradication of riparian Himalayan balsam on 126.2km on the *Upper Blackwater and the River Owentaraglin.

The publication ‘Duhallow – A Living Landscape for Farming and Wildlife’ was funded by IRD Duhallow under the LEADER programme

Volunteers at one of the training days for Hen Harrier and Merlin monitoring.

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Agriculture Agriculture Working Group

participant receiving a results-based payment based on a measure scorecard.

The IRD Duhallow Agriculture Working Group meet regularly to develop and implement the range of activities across the agricultural sector.

A strategic review was held in May of this year and a number of possible funding stream avenues were Blue Dot Farmer information day. identified for further exploration including a roll over of our current Farming for Blue Dot Catchments EIP project. Under the new CAP 2023 funding has been allocated for EIP projects under two streams, stream A which will cover topics such as water quality, and stream B which will cover topics such as farm succession, farm safety and women in agriculture. The importance of a continuation of the work completed in the Blue Dot EIP has been reinforced by our working group.

UFU & Ulster Wildlife visit a project farm in October 2021 to view a number of measures

Farm Biodiversity There will be a greater emphasis on space for nature on agricultural holdings moving forward. It must be noted that from 2023 conditionality will under pin all CAP Pillar 1 payments such as BISS, CRISS and the ANC. All eligible or active farmers must adhere to this conditionality through the Good Agricultural and Environmental Conditions (GAEC). For example, under GAEC 8 it will be a requirement for all active farmers to have 4% of lands declared made up of features beneficial to the climate and the environment. These features can include hedges, drains, field margins and scrub. As a trial the Blue Dot EIP Project carried out biodiversity studies of over forty farms in the Allow Catchment.

CAP 2023 The Department of Agriculture, food, and the Marine (DAFM) submitted the Draft CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) to the European Commission on the 31st of December 2021. The new CAP commences on the January 1st, 2023, with the DAFM expecting to receive approval of the CSP sometime in Habitat scoring a wetland with the CIEMM on a project farm September this year. There will be several changes to the agricultural schemes commencing on January 1st, 2023. One of the major changes is the introduction of the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) and Eco Schemes to replace the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and Greening respectively. As per the BPS application it will be mandatory to submit a BISS application annually to draw down eligible entitlements per hectare owned, leased, or rented.

The complimentary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS) will be introduced for all active famers with a valid BISS application submitted with payments received on the first 30 hectares of every farm holding. A new flag ship AgriIndustry stakeholders visiting a Project Environmental scheme will be introduced in 2023 with an element farm to view a farm roadway upgrade to prevent silt run-off to the River Dalua, of results-based payments included Kanturk April 2022 for the first time in a DAFM scheme.

Cllr Fionnán Fitzgerald, Michael Moynihan T.D., Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue, with IRD Duhallow’s Eileen Linehan, Billy Murphy and Triona Dennehy on the occasion of the Minister’s visit to Kanturk Mart.

Even a small area or field corner can be beneficial and support a wide range of wildlife. Our hedgerows around the farm are extremely important for insects and small mammals so retain these hedgerows for wildlife and remember the season is now closed for hedgerow maintenance.

Beekeepers Association Following a lengthy break from in-person events due to COVID-19, the Duhallow Beekeepers Association have quickly made up for lost time.

March saw the association host a series of workshops at the James O’ Keeffe Institute for both beginner and experienced beekeepers. Speakers included John O’ Mahony, Catherine Cauldwell, Andy Bourke, and Fr. James McSweeney. Attendees learned about everything from hive assembly to bee biology, from flora for bees to harvesting honey. Each workshop proved massively successful with more attendees than ever before. At the start of May this year, a new demonstration area, including two hives, was installed on the grounds of the James O’ Keeffe Institute.

This will help the association to host more demonstrations for members in the future, providing a great resource for beekeepers, both novices and masters, to learn from the association’s wealth of expertise.

Fr. James McSweeney presenting at the Duhallow

CAP Strategic Review Submission IRD Duhallow through the Blue Dot EIP Project team submitted a submission to include several trialled measures from the EIP project in the new CAP 2023. One of these measures was a strategic buffer in identified nutrient flow pathways.

Speakers at an information day: David The project utilises all available data Wallis Danu EIP, Catherine Seale Duggan LAWPRO, Michael Morrissey IRD Duhallow, and mapping systems including the John Corbett Grassland Agro DAFM’s GLAM mapping system to identify Critical Source Areas and nutrient flow pathways suitable for the strategic buffer measure. Over the course of several field surveys all hydrological features of the participating farms were mapped including included rivers, streams, drains, wetlands, CSA’s and flow pathways. The current availability of the catchments.ie online mapping facility that identifies CSA’s and natural flow pathways through the Pollution Impact Potential (PIP) maps has provided an additional mapping tool for the project to support the identification of the natural flow pathways in the catchment. This will allow the project to target specific areas within the catchment for strategic buffers. These buffers when fenced are approximately 20 metres by 40 – 60 metres in size with the project

Bee Keepers course.

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Social Farming Duhallow Social Farming IRD Duhallow was delighted to secure funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine this year to develop a social farming programme for the Duhallow region.

Social farming offers people with disabilities the opportunity to spend time on a family farm, taking part in day-to-day farm activities. Participants go to the host farm once a week for 24 hours on average. A range of activities take place on our host farms, from feeding and checking in on animals, to planting and growing vegetables and plants. Of course, the most important job on all our host farms is the cup of tea before home time!

IRD Duhallow held an information session last November which aimed to inform farmers on the concepts of social farming.

the farm in the context of rural community life and networks. A wraparound approach underpins the Social Farming Project and acts as a gateway for participants and the farm families by improving their access to numerous supports/services through the integrated suite of programmes operated within the local development company structures.

Information of the supports offered within IRD Duhallow is included in the introductory pack for host farmers and participants. For participant’s families, information on Duhallow Carer’s group is also given. The social farming facilitator encourages uptake and access to these services and supports.

Social farming facilitator Sheila Kelleher with Kanturk mart manager Seamus O’Keeffe & Colette O’Connell at the social farming outreach day at Kanturk Mart in May.

Duhallow Social Farming operates as a voluntary model to enable real working relationships and friendships to develop. The programme adapts to each host farm environment and the needs of each individual participant. Host farms are supported with any maintenance and on-farm safety improvements, as well as access to relevant training opportunities.

Testimony - Michael & Peggy Lynch, Host Farmers Michael and Peggy Lynch have a sucker farm in Ballingeary, Co. Cork.

They have two miniature ponies, two pygmy goats and three dogs.

Michael and Peggy have four daughters: Caitriona, Roisin, Aoife and Aisling. The family have welcomed Louise, Martin and Nora from COPE foundation along with their support worker Cathy to the farm.

Benefits of Social Farming

IRD Duhallow STRIVE participant Kevin O'Connor painting a fence at Kate Jarvey's social farm in Kanturk. Kevin works on the farm three hours a week and was matched with Kate because of his love for horses and nature.

Social farming creates the opportunity for farmers to reconnect with their local communities by opening their farms as part of a social support system. The Social Farming programme can improve the farm work environment, with the participant providing the farmer with help and company. Social farming will give farmers a better understanding of disabilities, as well as giving them an opportunity to access relevant training and upskilling courses. Farm improvements are another benefit for farmers, with IRD Duhallow assisting with on-farm health and safety upgrades for social farming activities.

Peggy told us why they decided to get involved in social farming: “My husband Michael and I wanted to do something to help people in need.

We discovered IRD Duhallow were doing this social farming programme and I knew in my heart straight away this was the perfect opportunity for us. We contacted IRD Duhallow and now have three participants from COPE foundation coming to our farm and we absolutely love them.

They’ve become part of our family, part of our week and part of our lives.

We love seeing their smiles and hearing their jokes and laughter. It’s in giving you receive, and I would highly recommend social farming to everyone”.

Social Farming activities focus on the participant’s potential and encourages them to socialise, aiding in the development of their life and social skills. The new challenges and experiences participants encounter while social farming improves their confidence, independence and wellbeing. The increased activity improves their physical health and develops their motor skills.

Training Opportunities All our host farmers participated in the ‘FARCURA - An Introduction to Social Farming’ course to acquaint them to the concepts of social farming and prepare them with the skills to take on participants. The training empowered farmers with the necessary knowledge, skillsets and competencies to develop and enhance social farming.

COPE participants Nora McCarthy, Louise Hogan & Martin Condon with host farmers Peggy & Aoife Lynch.

Duhallow Social Farming provided funding for host farmers to complete the PHECC First Aid responder training. Our farmers have also completed the HSE Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults training to equip them with the knowledge needed if a safeguarding concern arises.

IRD Duhallow integrated supports Social farming is not just about individual participants or individual farms, but about these individuals as part of their community, and the role of

COPE attendee Nora McCarthy feeding the goats with host farmer Aoife Lynch.

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Martin Condon sowing gladioli bulbs - we can't wait to see his beautiful flowers grow at the Lynch social farm!

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Rural Regeneration Fund influence the local economy, promote health and fitness, and fill a gap for such an amenity in the sector. It complements existing amenities in the region and the local community. The facility will in effect be a community enterprise which will be supported by employment schemes such as Tús and CE and will also cater for work placements on Local Training Initiatives in sports recreation.

The inclusion of a museum/exhibition area of sports memorabilia will also attract people to the area interested in viewing such articles/photos/ videos etc. this will help to preserve the historic achievements of the 100 years of Banteer Sports for future generations. Projects such as this help small areas to not just sustain but attract new settlers and activity to rural Ireland. Areas which are the essence of rural Ireland. Late last year, the Department audited the facility and the file and were very impressed with mammoth task the community has undertaken to make this facility a reality.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphries made an unexpected visit to inspect the progress on the project with Deputy Michael Creed. The Rural Regeneration Programme is funded by her department.

The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) is a commitment of €1 billion by government to be invested in rural Ireland over the period 2019 to 2027.

The purpose of the fund is to support job creation in rural areas, address de-population of rural communities and support improvements in our towns and villages with a population of less than 10,000, and outlying areas.

The committee on the site for the proposed Bweeng development.

Bweeng Recreation Hub IRD Duhallow worked closely with the Bweeng community to this year submit an application under the Rural Regeneration fund to develop a Recreation Hub in Bweeng. A feasibility study was conducted with LEADER support and Horgan Lynch Consultants provided a comprehensive report into the viability of the project. It outlines that there are a number of elements to this project:

Initial funding of €315 million has been allocated to the fund on a phased basis over the period 2019 to 2022.

Banteer Astroturf Facility In January of 2019, Banteer & District Community Sportsfield with the help of IRD Duhallow as project promoter, secured €1.2m from the RRD Fund.

This ambitious project to create and develop a state-of-the-art community sports facility for the Banteer & District communities is now almost complete.

The facility includes a full-sized allDecember 2020 Construction of the new weather pitch, spectator area and building which includes changing sports pavilion which includes facilities, toilets, disabled facilities, changing rooms, a community spectator stand, museum, tearoom, and a museum, exhibitor area, Café and a digital hub. social area for events and gatherings.

This development now acts as a centre for community interaction and engagement, social inclusion and promotes sport to children in the area which will encourage healthy living while tackling childhood obesity.

What makes this facility unique is that it is the only community-owned

1. Exercise Running Track & Athletics Training Facilities – It is proposed to install a compact 250m 4 lane running track complete with an integrated 100m sprint lanes and run off area alongside shot putt, long jump and high jump areas to cater for all types of athletics.

2. Soccer/athletics grass training pitch area 3. Floodlighting 4. Extension to the existing amenity walkway & landscaping 5. Local Arts, Heritage & Cultural Park installations.

6. Outdoor Gym

The site is ideally located as it complements existing facilities. This colocation of facilities will provide a rural social hub, making Bweeng a more attractive place to live in line with the placemaking framework adopted

by Cork County Council. The Athletics track would be a state-of-the-art facility, and its only rivals would be those in College Campuses such as CIT and UCC. Currently people note that it is impossible to get a space on any of these tracks which are oversubscribed.

Successful applicants of the Rural Regeneration Fund will be notified in September, and we are hopeful to see this worthy project amongst them.

July 2022, the building is complete and the digital hub, funded under LEADER is ready to be opened.

Drone photography of the Banteer AstroTurf and building. The impressive facilities will serve the community of Banteer, and indeed the County of Cork and beyond.

facility of its size in the country. This new project provides an all-year-round recreational facility for the catchment area, and will attract more people into the region which will positively

Plan of the proposed Bweeng Recreation Hub project which has been submitted to the department for Rural regeneration funding.

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Enterprise The National policy document ‘Our Rural Future’ sets out a framework for the development of rural Ireland over the next five years. Pivotal to achieving the targets set out within the document is the creation and sustainment of quality jobs. This is the primary focus and objective of IRD Duhallow’s Enterprise Working Group. Rural economies are particularly vulnerable and the Covid 19 pandemic has impacted significantly on certain sectors in the Duhallow region. However, the recent OECD report ‘Policy implications of Coronavirus Crisis for Rural Development’ showcases the potential opportunities brought about by COVID-19. It has required businesses to rethink existing approaches to issues that impact on rural areas and to develop strategies to overcome future economic shocks. IRD Duhallow’s efforts have concentrated on providing supports to businesses to allow them to become more resilient focusing on diversification and digitisation.

Through these SICAP funded initiatives, entrepreneurs are supported to develop viable business plans. Many go on to apply for the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance or the Short Term Enterprise Allowance, which affords them the reassurance of a continuing welfare payment whilst taking the plunge of starting their own business and even on to LEADER grants to grow and expand.

Kerry Month of Enterprise:

LEADER

Project partners of Kerry Month of Enterprise at the event’s official launch.

Now in its 9th year, Kerry Month of Enterprise takes place annually in March and is a month-long celebration of Enterprise activities that take place across the county throughout the year. A series of events organised each March gives established businesses and budding entrepreneurs an opportunity to network and discover the assistance available to them in growing and sustaining a business in Kerry. Kerry month of enterprise is a collaborative initiative between Munster Technological University, Kerry County Council, Kerry Local Enterprise Office, Enterprise Ireland, Udarás na Gaeltachta, North, East and West Kerry Development, South Kerry Partnership Development, IRD Duhallow and IDA Ireland. IRD Duhallow was delighted to be involved again this year, attending events and running a Business Breakfast in support of Enterprise in the Duhallow Region. A feature in Kerry’s Eye’s “Enterprise for the Future” Special highlighted the supports available to businesses in the form of training through Duhallow Skillnet and Enterprise Assistance on offer from the team in IRD Duhallow.

Willie Heffernan and John Corkery of Alu Cast demonstrating the Cobotic Welding Arm that was funded through LEADER.

The LEADER 14-20 and its subsequent transitionary programme has seen local businesses receive in excess of nine hundred thousand euro in funding. Through this over 250 jobs have been supported. We supported a number of companies to apply for Artisan food grants through the national measure, which focused on providing support for new and existing micro and small food producers.

SICAP

Remote Working and Digitalisation

Participants of the Start Your Own Business Programme that was delivered with the support of SICAP.

Through the SICAP programme, IRD Duhallow offers a suite of targeted supports to those who are distanced from the labour market to start their own business. We operate a dedicated mentoring programme, where entrepreneurs can receive up to ten hours one to one time with an experienced mentor to support them and provide independent advice and counsel to develop their business.

McCarthy’s Butchers received funding under the Artisan Food Measure to upgrade their equipment.

The pandemic brought about a changed way of working in the region and we have witnessed a large increase in the number of people remote working. Through the support of LEADER a number of community hubs have been funded in Tureencahill, Glash, Aubane, Laharn, Banteer and Kilbrin. The slow roll out of the National Broadband Plan across Duhallow has meant that these hubs play an important role in supporting people to remote work who may otherwise not have access to high quality internet.

This year we have delivered two SICAP supported Start Your Own Business Training programmes as well as a one-day Business Bootcamp.

These programmes focus on the essentials of starting your own business from understanding company structure, basic finance, sales, marketing and business planning. The programmes were delivered by local tutor Ruth Cosgrave of Via Lutea.

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IRD Duhallow Skillnet First established in 2015, the Duhallow Skillnet has since grown from strength to strength under the steerage of our Enterprise Working Group. The purpose of the Skillnet is to allow businesses to upskill their staff through affordable, quality training that is delivered locally in Duhallow or online. Skillnet is a programme that Duhallow Enterprise Working Members: operates on a joint investment model, Geraldine O’Leary (Vice Chair); Monica where Government grants are Gilmore, Eileen Linehan and Padraic combined with contributions from O’Connell (Chair). enterprise, thus reducing costs and other barriers for businesses. Skillnet Ireland has received international recognition as a best practice model from the EU, the OECD, the ILO, amongst others. The Duhallow Skillnet supports in excess of 500 businesses annually to develop the talent and skills they need to compete, innovate and grow. During the period of 2015 – 2021 we achieved the following highlights: • • • • •

Networking Networking is an integral part of the work undertaken by the Skillnet.

Informal learning from other businesses is as important as the formal classroom based education, allowing trainees to learn from one another and share experiences. Duhallow Skillnet places an emphasis on generating networking opportunities for local businesses. During Covid restrictions, networking events were held online including a briefing on ecommerce for your business and the winter lunch and learn series.

Thankfully, with the lifting of restrictions, we were once again able to hold an in person business breakfast in April.

5916 Employed Trainees participated in our training programmes; 372 Unemployed Trainees participated in our training programmes; 29139 Employed Training Days delivered; 11247 Unemployed Training Days delivered; and 67 Non Formal Events delivered.

The Duhallow Business Breakfast was extremely well attended and featured a wide range of speakers in relation to business strategy and development.

Skills Connect Skills Connect is a separate strand of funding delivered by Duhallow Skillnet.

The programe is designed in partnership with enterprise to enhance cross-sector employability and support people who have lost their jobs.

It offers a suite of bespoke upskilling and training solutions, designed by enterprise, aimed Participants of the Gel Nail Polish Course at supporting re-entry into the workforce. In conjunction with the large number of nursing homes in the region we have successfully delivered our third Health Care Support Worker Programme, which is a full time course spread across eight months and requires the candidate to complete 100 hours work experience in health care settings. We are proud of the fact that 85% of our course graduates have gone on to employment in the sector and others have pursued further education opportunities.

These achievements are made across a wide range of courses and sectors encompassing bespoke seminars, lunch and learns and QQI modules all the ways up to 7 and 8 degree levels.

“The IRD Duhallow Skillnet is an excellent resource for organisations in the Cork North West region and Aldi’s experience in dealing with them has always been very positive. The funding that the IRD Duhallow Skillnet provides enhances the Aldi training programme by allowing us to develop and upskill our colleagues in an efficient and cost-effective manner”.

Katie O’Connor, HR, Aldi Childcare The Skillnet funding model is enterprise led and through the IRD Duhallow facilitated North Cork Childcare Network, local childcare managers identified a need to upskill staff to level 7 degrees, which not only was beneficial to the staff and the company they were working in, but in turn also made services eligible for higher capitation grants. During the 2021 term IRD Duhallow delivered two training Level 7 degrees in Early Childhood Care and Education in conjunction with IT Carlow. Plans are underway for a follow on level 8 programme to be delivered in 20222023. This Autumn we saw the first graduation of a level 8 programme funded by Duhallow Skillnet, as the first graduates of the 2020-2021 programme were conferred with their certificates in Early Childhood Care and Education.

Graduates of the 2020-2021 Skills Connect programme who achieved a level 5 qualification in Health Care Support Worker from Minister for Education Norma Foley.

This year we are delivering our first level 5 major award in childcare through skills connect. The programme is supporting 20 individuals participate in training. This will take place over nine months. Given that the trainees on our skills connect programmes have often been distanced from the labour market for quite some time, we take a holistic approach involving the use of many soft supports including coaching as well as basic computer and study skills.

Maura Walsh, CEO with Cork County Mayor Gillian Coughlan and Paula Cogan from Cork Chamber along with other special guests at The Duhallow Business Breakfast

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Tourism Duhallow is an area rich in culture and heritage. We focus on a range of outdoor pursuits and outdoor activities promoting ‘eco tourism’ enthusiasts to visit the region.

most of the people taking up angling and joining clubs was due entirely to COVID. Having vibrant angling clubs available coupled with beautiful clean rivers flowing through well managed town parks made angling the ideal activity for all the family. As soon as restrictions were lifted the angling centre in conjunction with the local angling clubs arranged weekly coaching and information sessions which were well attended.

They say its an ill wind that doesn’t blow some good.

The angling centre will be well represented in the upcoming 2022 international fly fishing championships.

Kasperous Martinkus will compete in the world youth fly fishing championships in Italy.

Kasperous becomes the fifth graduate of the Tom Ankettell (Duhallow Angling Centre of Excellence) Cian angling centre to Hayes Dublin and Mike Kelleher (Youth Ffficer Kanturk Trout qualify for an Irish team Anglers) enjoying a day on the river. since its foundation in 2012 an achievement we are very proud of. Best of luck also to Michael Twohig (World masters) and Steven Higgins (European championships)

The Mount Hillary Eco Pods which were funded by LEADER were developed by Katrin and Walter Alhert to help address Duhallow’s Accommodation Shortage

Walking in Duhallow IRD Duhallow administers the Walks Scheme for the Duhallow Blackwater Way Walk, which stretches 50 miles from Bweeng, Co. Cork to Clonkeen Church, Co. Kerry South of the Paps Mountains. Through this, funding is provided for 26 local private landowners to maintain and upgrade their sections along the route. IRD Duhallow continues to support walking tourism in the region through the promotion and development of the National Trails Office accredited walks including Mt. Hilary, Mullaghareirk, the Source of the Blackwater and Claragh. The Walks Scheme for the Duhallow Blackwater Way leverages significant support from Rural Social Scheme (RSS) participants to maintain the quality of the trail. The Outdoor Recreation and Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) is focused on developing rural Ireland’s unique natural amenities and support the adventure tourism sector in rural communities. Last year we successfully applied for small scale works and upgrades to the Kiskeam River Walk and the Slugadal, Rathmore.

Newmarket Pitch and Putt Newmarket Pitch and Putt’s unique 18-hole course was designed by Michael O’Leary of Sol Golf Ballydesmond and was funded by the LEADER programme. The club were honoured to host the Men’s National Match Play qualifiers in May.

We have recently been awarded funding for a Rural Recreation Officer (RRO), who act as a unique resource locally for providing best practice in trail maintenance, management, marketing and the development of a broad range of rural recreation and activity tourism products. The new RRO will also animate and assist with trail marketing in line with the National Countryside Recreational Strategy and promote the leave no trace policy. Significant efforts have been made to develop promotional materials including leaflets, website information panels to ensure details of the trails is readily available to prospective trail users including grades of trails, terrain, distance etc. The RRO will also be responsible for the development of a LEADER funded trail walking app.

An aerial view of the state of the art pitch and putt course which was developed on the grounds of the James O’Keeffe Institute.

Encouraging young people to partake in sport, the head coach from the Pitch and Putt Union of Ireland visited our course this year to coach the boy’s national school from Newmarket and the National School children from Boherbue. Staff of IRD Duhallow have also started a competition for beginners with 42 of the team participating during lunch time.

Angling Centre Of Excellence The Duhallow Angling Centre of Excellence has seen varying trends the past two years due to the onset of the COVID which has disrupted the world in a way not experienced since the last world war. The angling centre since its foundation in 2012 had gained a reputation as an angling destination for international anglers seeking waters with the ultimate prize, namely wild native brown trout.

Unfortunately, worldwide travel restrictions has prevented many visiting anglers from visiting the Duhallow region, some of whom had made it an annual pilgrimage. As travel restrictions have eased we are now receiving enquiries for 2022 from many anglers who are seeking to make a return. We look forward to welcoming them again to our rivers and streams.

Michael Nicholas, a regular visitor to Duhallow from Spain about to release a wild brown trout in the Dallow river

The other trend which occurred the past two years has been the increase in local people taking up angling for the first time. Local angling clubs have reported a major increase in new members and family memberships in particular. A study carried out by the Duhallow Angling Centre of Excellence shows that due to the lockdown and local travel restrictions

Kerry Over 50s club spent a very enjoyable afternoon in Duhallow where they also dined in DCFS adjacent to the Pitch & Putt course.

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Culture and Heritage Historic Grave Training:

Participants of the Historic Graves Programme with tutor John Tierney at a group meeting

IRD Duhallow has been long engaged in the process of surveying and publishing the inscriptions on historic grave yard monuments thanks to the efforts of dedicated community volunteers and groups in Duhallow.

Pat Fleming is a regular contributor with Discover Duhallow, writing articles on Sliabh Luachra musicians and their heritage. Pat launched his CD in the beautiful setting of the refurbished Culturlann Centre in Newmarket, which is a great addition to the culture and heritage facilities in the region.

Since 2013 the biographical details from 28 graveyards have been recorded and this has helped individuals from far flung places connect with their own particular graveyard plots.

is extremely innovative as they collectively record oral history, stories of the past, music, poetry and anecdotes. Their reputation precedes them due to the high quality of past journals and demands for these journals continuing to grow and copies being send aboard to the diaspora in America and Australia. The committee was dealt a blow in 2022 with the passing of their Chairperson Martin Murphy earlier this year. Martin was a great stalwart in the promotion the work of Cumann Luachra and always passionate about the work that they were involved in.

Participants of the Historic Graves Programme with tutor John Tierney at a group meeting

From all over the world genealogy tourists can log on to the online resource www.historicgraves.com and identify relevant burial places.

Furthermore, in person people can also locate relevant headstones via their associated GPS coordinates which are published on the website with each headstone.

Currently underway in Duhallow is a dedicated LEADER funded initiative which is focused on training volunteers from local communities in simple systems for historical research and recording stories. This approach will ground participants in research fundamentals, establishing key facts, sharing stories, documenting sources along with making audio recordings. The project aims to train individuals and groups in Duhallow to record local stories using their smartphones and to publish them online as tourism heritage resources. The importance of noting these stories cannot be overstated, as each generation has their own memories and recollections of the people who went before them, which eventually fade with the passage of time. Through field work in the local graveyards and the recording of people’s stories, an expandable oral record of the locality will be created, showcasing Duhallow’s broad heritage with online multimedia resources available for all to access.

Sarah O’Keeffe of Ceoiltoiri Sliabh Luachra performing at the summer seisiuns in Bruach na Carraige Rockchapel.

Nollaig Murphy, Eileen Linehan and Maura Walsh all of IRD Duhallow with the Late Martin Murphy Chairperson of Cumann Luachra with their most recent publication

Cullen Pipe Band Cullen Pipe Band was established in 1941 and has encouraged the growth of Piping over the past 80 years in the region along with the other 2 pipe bands in the region. Under the current LEADER Programme the band were approved funding to engage a professional instructor to provide expert tuition to its members to help raise the standard of the band even further. Senior members of the group had dedicated tailored sessions which allowed them to learn new skills they could then impart to junior members of the band as part of the weekly practice sessions.

Culture & Heritage Centre Duhallow has a wealth of heritage and culture centres across the region in Laharn, Rochchapel, Freemount, Aubane, Tureencahill, Glash and Banteer, all of which act as vehicles for promoting and preserving culture and heritage in the region. With the Marion and Thomas Barrett enjoying an lifting of Covid restrictions it is great to evening of traditional Cross Roads Dancing in Laharn. see crossroad dancing back in Laharn cross, seisiuns in Rockchapel, community events in Tureencahill and other events being planned elsewhere for the remainder of the year. All of these centres have benefited greatly from the LEADER Programme over the years. The ever-popular Sliabh Luachra seisiuns recommenced this summer in Rockchapel along with the Sliabh Luachra Summer camps with local families eager for their children to learn music and dance in the Sliabh Luachra style.

Source of the Blackwater.

The Source of the Blackwater continues to be an area of great interest locally as it is celebrated for providing a hiding place for Gearoid Iarla, the fugitive Earl of Desmond in 1558 after the collapse of the Desmond rebellion. The area is also associated with Fr Maurice McKenraghry, chaplain to the Earl of Desmond who was captured here by Lord Roche in Maura Walsh, IRD Duhallow with Fr the 1580’s and martyred. He was Tarrant of Ballydesmond who concelebrated the Dawn Mass at the beatified in 1992. Today the site is used annually by IRD Duhallow for the Source of the Blackwater. The Source of the Blackwater is a place of cultural Dawn Chorus Mass as part of significance in the region and was the site Bealtaine which is always well of the capture of Fr. McKenraghry who was a martyr in penal times. attended.

Sliabh Luachra Journals Cumann Luachra are champions in the conservation of the history of Sliabh Luachra with 19 historical journals produced to date. The latest 2 were once again LEADER funded with a 20th journal in the pipeline. These local historians have invested so much of their own time into the preservation of such information for future generations. The committee

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Community Development The Community Development Working Group returned to in person meetings in early 2022 having had all previous meetings in 2021 take place virtually due to Covid Restrictions. Planning has already commenced on the need to hold meetings in a number of community locations again to identify the main issues on the ground and give communities an opportunity to come together to discuss the future of community and rural development for the region. Being in an interim funding period for the LEADER Programme, communities are eager to start planning and preparing for the next LEADER programme to improve their communities. The bottom-up approach to rural development which we have always operated from in IRD Duhallow has ensured that we have a very active region of community and voluntary groups who are enthusiastic and motivated to improve the quality of life for people in their communities themselves. Our model of integrated and sustainable rural development which we have always advocated for and operate on helps to ensure that any new groups who start up are linked in with us and are supported through our community forums for the region along with all existing groups also being supported and engaged with. Such an integrated approach helps to bring all groups together to look at the future of their area on a bigger scale and facilitate them to work together to bring about change for the good.

These are two great community led projects for local children and families to benefit from and they complement the other playground developments across the region. Minister Heather Humphries on a recent visit to Kanturk town visited the playground in The LEADER funded playground at Knocknagree was Kanturk town park which opened to the public this summer. was LEADER funded and made a substantial improvement to the town park amenity.

OECD Local Development Forum; Better Strategies for Stronger Communities.

The Annual OECD Local Development Forum took place over 3 days in Cork in June 2022. Pobal is the Irish delegate on the Local Employment and Economic Development (LEED) Programme. LEED is a unit within the OECD’s Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities. Its mission is to contribute to the creation of more and better jobs through effective policy implementation, innovative practices, stronger capacities and Work is well underway in the Knocknagree integrated local strategies. This forum Community Sensory Gardens which was identified as a future project in the LEADER event was a significant occasion as it Funded Feasibility study which was coincided with the 40th Anniversary undertaken by Knocknagree Community of the OECD’s LEED programme. IRD Development Group.

Duhallow was delighted to be invited to present at the Local Initiatives Marketplace as part of the Forum event to showcase the role of LDC’s in rural and community development and our innovative approaches to building more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities.

Community Development Engagement Despite Covid but in compliance with HSE guidelines IRD Duhallow continued to work closely with all of its communities both virtually and more recently in person. One benefit of the covid restrictions was that people who prior to the Fun and Games was had at the Rylane Family Fun Day pandemic weren’t which was supported by IRD Duhallow under the LEADER Day of the Regions Initiative engaged in their local community or availing of local amenities were now doing so. This allowed for new families in our communities to become more familiar with what was on their doorstep and for local community groups to recognise the skillsets of individuals living and now working remotely in their communities. Asset based community development like this is now being fostered where local committees are utilising such skills of their residents to improve their own communities. Communities have never been so eager to undertake medium and large-scale projects and invest into their own communities which is great to see. If living through the restrictions of the pandemic has taught us anything its The closing ceremony of the Annual South that supporting local initiatives and West Regional Girl Guides Camp was projects will help to create a living hosted by the Boherbue branch on the countryside where families will have grounds of the James O'Keeffe Institute a good quality of life in rural areas Newmarket this July which was their first large event since before the pandemic. like Duhallow.

Newmarket GAA developed a fully accessible walk around their playing pitch with support from the LEADER Programme which is being widely used by the community.

Playground & Amenity Development in Duhallow The LEADER Programme has played a fundamental role in the development of community playgrounds across the region. 2022 saw the playground in Rockchapel officially opened in July with Knockagree Playground also opening at Rockchapel Community Playground was developed with the support of LEADER funding and was the start of the summer.

Newmarket Tennis Courts which has recently been refurbished with state of the art floodlighting funded by IRD Duhallow under the LEADER Programme . The tennis courts and MUGA was funded under the previous LEADER Programme.

officially opened in July.

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Community Development

Community representatives with PJ Murphy of IRD Duhallow taking part in the LEADER funded SMART Villages Training Programme

They rely on a participatory approach to develop and implement their strategy to improve their economic, social and/or environmental conditions. Smart Villages benefit from cooperation and alliances with other communities and actors in rural and urban areas. IRD Duhallow in conjunction with Kilkenny Partnership and Galway Rural Development Company came together to develop an inter territorial project to develop a curriculum for Smart Village training. The tender was awarded to ETownz and through this programme a number of communities have taken part in the pilot programme, where they learnt the skills to develop their SMART village strategy. This will now be rolled out across all communities in Duhallow in the Autumn of 2022.

Helen O’Sullivan and PJ Murphy representing IRD Duhallow at the OECD Local Development Forum Local Initiatives Market Place event in Cork City Hall.

Community Elections The Board of IRD Duhallow consists of 25 voluntary directors. Of this 25, 8 seats are reserved for community representation. Each of the 4 regions, North Eastern, South Eastern, Western & Mid Cork all have 2 seats allocated to them. This structure allows for the democratic election of community volunteers who have an interest in sitting on a LDC board and also allows a great spread of community activists from all across Duhallow. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Annette O’Mahony for her term on the Board representing North Eastern Duhallow and we welcome Paul Murphy to the Board from Newmarket.

Community Food Initiatives

Discover Duhallow Discover Duhallow is produced by a small team and circulated every second Friday. 4,000 copies are sent out across the region, and the focus is on Duhallow, its news, and its residents. The magazine is also placed online and boasts a readership across a number of countries. Community is the focus of each piece, and everyone within Duhallow is encouraged to send in their news – nothing is too small. During Christmas, the team released a bumper edition that included everything from photos sent by the community to a pull out Christmas recipe book. Social media has become a part of the effort to reach the community, and this has proved beneficial to both the team and the community.

A Community Food Initiative Box of ingredients received by families as part of Remote Cookery Programme. The CFI Programme encourages participants to closely follow the recipe as part of the Programme

IRD Duhallow was one of 14 initiatives to receive funding through safefood’s Community Food Initiatives (CFI) 20192021; the aim of the CFI programme was to positively influence the eating habits of families with children in lowincome communities. The CFI programme uses a community development approach in promoting availability and access to healthy foods. IRD Duhallow helped families make healthy food choices, learn about preparing fresh food and create healthy rituals around the consumption of food ultimately bringing families together to lead happier healthier lives. IRD Duhallow held a 3week Healthy Eating Practices Webinar Series covering topics such as Trying New Foods and Establishing Eating Rituals, Mindful Eating and Food Waste Reduction, Meal Planning, Savvy Shopping & Budgeting Tips. As well as supporting 24 families through two 4 week Remote Cookery Programmes where families received all ingredients, recipes, videos and support required for 3 meals a week.

The Discover Duhallow Team of Tadgh Curtin and Caleb O’Connor who design the community magazine inhouse and work closely with local communities and businesses for content.

Smart Villages Smart Villages are communities in rural areas that use innovative solutions to improve their resilience, building on local strengths and opportunities.

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LEADER 2014-2020 in Duhallow making was essential to LEADER and required independence, balance and operational clarity that was not always given to LAGs by Managing Authorities. Case studies and surveys show LEADER features were implemented more effectively and with greater impact where LAGs had sufficient autonomy to tailor measures and funding conditions to meet local needs. A good balance of actors in LAG governance was vital: where this was compromised (for example in Romania, and with concerns raised in Ireland), project scope and impact were limited. Achieving wide participation, via application of the bottom-up principle and local animation, was important. A large proportion of LAG survey responses and all case studies showed LEADER enabled participation by actors who would otherwise not be involved in developing their territory.

Networking was identified as the most effective mechanism to stimulate social benefits. The LAG survey and case studies showed a clear correlation between LEADER’s reported effectiveness and LAGs’ ability to apply the seven LEADER features. Lower implementation of any single feature reduced LAGs’ effectiveness.”

Maura Walsh, CEO of IRD Duhallow cutting the ribbon with Brian Maloney of Taurbeg Windfarm at the official opening of the LEADER funded Rockchapel playground.

The 2014-2020 programme is now complete, and we have entered our second year of interim funding from EURI and the Irish exchequer. We have been fortunate that the government has recognised the need to continue to provide funding for the Local Development companies, but unlike previous programmes, funding has been allocated for projects also during this period of interregnum.

IRD Duhallow’s LEADER 14-20 budget consisted in total of €3.6m across our three LEADER LAG areas of South Cork, North Cork and Kerry. While all funds are now committed, we are continuing to work with promoters to complete projects and get the grants paid out.

We have some budget remaining in interim funding and our Development Officers are working with communities and local business to complete the programme requirements and submit their applications.

Deputy Matt Carthy, Sinn Fein spokesperson for Agriculture with Liadh Ni Riada visited the offices of IRD Duhallow last December. We got the opportunity to discuss many issues including the need for Local Development Companies to be reinstated as the LAG for the implementation of LEADER across the county. Pictured with staff members Eileen Linehan, Maura Walsh, Triona Dennehy and Board members Padraic O’ Connell and Michael Twohig.

Evaluation of LEADER The European Commission carried out an evaluation of the Impact of LEADER on Balanced Territorial Development for the programme period 2014-2020. The findings highlighted that LEADER: • • • •

In Ireland there are only four independent LAGs in the current programme, with the majority, including Duhallow in County Council Sub Committees, while the Programme for Government commits to independent LAG.s.

Is an effective programme for local development Helps social development Contributed to the green development Adds value through its involvement with local actors.

LEADER 2021-2027

The evaluation highlights that the seven features of LEADER foster a uniquely integrated, relevant and coherent approach to local development. These key features are; Bottom Up, Area Based, Local Action Group Partnership, Integrated, Networking, Innovation and Cooperation are required. The evaluation found that “Local level decision-

The Rockchapel Community Council paid tribute to IRD Duhallow with a list of all the LEADER funded projects in the village since 2010. Maura Walsh CEO with Development Officer and new Rockchapel resident, Louise Bourke Curtin!

Planning for the next LEADER programme is well underway at National and EU level. While our government and Minister acknowledge the major contribution of Local Development Companies in the delivery and rollout of the LEADER Programme to date and the fact that LEADER is a key intervention in rural Ireland, the funding continues to fall short of what is required for a sustainable rural Ireland.

Knocknagree Community Playground Group members Yvonne Brosnan, Mairead O’ Sullivan and Noreen McSweeney at the signing of their contract in IRD Duhallow Offices, with Cllr Bernard Moynihan, Chair of North Cork LAG and Triona Dennehy, IRD Duhallow

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LEADER 2014-2020 in Duhallow LAG structure currently is a sub-committee of the local authority.

OBV 194. The Commission has also invited Ireland ‘to set out the delivery mechanism more clearly, detailing the tasks of the local action groups, the Managing Authority and the Paying Agency.

OBV 192-193. Ireland is also invited to explain ‘how it will be ensured that each Local Action Group brings forward innovation in the local context’ and ‘how it will be ensured that each Local Action Group participates in networking and cooperation (at national or transnational level).’

Minister Heather Humphries, with staff from North Cork LCDC, IRD Duhallow Board member Michael Twohig and staff member Eileen Linehan on her recent trip to Duhallow. The Minister visited a number of projects funded by the LEADER programme including Kanturk Playground.

An indicative budget of €180 million has been allocated to the LEADER Programme for the 2023-2027 period as part of the new CAP Strategic Plan. This is less than half the amount sought by ILDN, our National Network from the Department and would mean a further halving of LEADER funds nationally.

Members of Kanturk Community Astroturf Committee at their fundraising draw that was held to raise funds for the new Astroturf Development

OBV 187. The Commission has invited Ireland “to explain the added value - in terms of building social capital, improving local governance and achieving better projects/results - that LEADER is expected to generate in Ireland, compared to a situation where similar projects would be funded without using the LEADER approach.”

All of these observations by the Commission support the need for a return to independent LAGs. OBV 17. “With regard to the CAP’s general objective of strengthening the socioeconomic fabric of rural areas, Ireland is invited to reflect on whether the budgetary resources and the instruments proposed are in line with the high number of needs identified and whether other policies outside the CAP are called to contribute.

The small budget earmarked for Ireland’s LEADER Programme has been highlighted to our government over the past few years, including the 201420 programme which represented a 70% cut in funding for Duhallow compared to the 07-13 programming period.

LEADER funded training in the recording of stories associated with the historical graveyards of Duhallow is currently ongoing in local communities, with many interesting accounts being documented. Trainee Mr. John Sheehan, is interviewed on camera speaking in relation to the historical graves of Clonmeen Graveyard, Banteer. Also pictured are fellow trainee Mr. Paddy Buckley and project tutor Mr. John Tierney.

24 of the 27 LAGs in Ireland are LCDC’s, Local Development Committees which are sub committees of the County Councils. This has chipped away at the LEADER ethos, something that is central to its success and importance in rural areas. IRD Duhallow as a member of ILDN our National Network, has been pressing for the reinstatement of Local Development Company’s as the independent LAG. Further validation of this requirement, is The European Commission’s feedback to the Minister for Agriculture on Ireland’s CAP submission for the next round of funding, and ILDN has highlighted the following issues for LEADER which were raised by the Commission: Obv188. “Ireland is requested to ensure that all the principles of the LEADER approach will be put into practice.- the

Despite the challenges of budgets and structures, IRD Duhallow continues to work with our communities and businesses to support them to identify the potential of their area and facilitate and support them in accessing funding, through animation and capacity building. The next round of LEADER has a focus on the concept of Smart Villages.

Billy Dennehy and John F O’ Connor at the Kiskeam Walking trail which was partially funded under the LEADER programme

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Duhallow Gymnastics, located in Newmarket was supported by LEADER funding to purchase additional gymnastics equipment. This LEADER enterprise grant will allow Duhallow Gymnastics to grow its membership, create new jobs in the town, and enable local children to experience the many health benefits of gymnastics. The club was originally established in 2014 and has grown from strength to strength and this expansion will allow them to meet the huge demand for gymnastics in the Duhallow region.

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LEADER 2014-2020 in Duhallow Smart Village Concept The EU Action for Smart Villages initiative was launched by the European Commission in 2017. Smart Villages are rural areas and communities which build on and enhance their existing strengths and assets through creative thinking and by embracing innovation to create desirable places for rural people to live and work. In creating a Smart Village, community

groups and individuals often overcome local challenges by exploring and implementing practical and tangible solutions.

In particular, rural communities explore how local services, such as health, social services, education, energy, transport and retail, can be enhanced and sustained through the deployment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools and community-led actions and projects. As such, digitisation is key to the creation of a Smart Village; however, social innovation is also paramount. The concept of Smart Villages therefore is not prescriptive and there is an acknowledgment that there is ‘no one size fits all’ model that can be applied universally.

The LEADER funded Kilbrin Hub was developed to provide an accessible space for those working This in turn allows EU Member remotely in the locality or those in need of IT access.

States broad discretion on how Services available include internet access and to plan for and implement printing facilities, along with a tea and coffee making station. this innovative initiative in their respective countries. IRD Duhallow is currently delivering Smart Villages training to all our Duhallow communities. This will position them to develop plans for the sustainable development of their own communities.

Don Murphy IRD Duhallow with participants on site in Rathmore where a swift tower was erected as part of the Swifts in Duhallow LEADER project

LEADER Projects LEADER South Cork 2014-2020 & Transition Programme % Aid PROMOTER Rural Tourism 32.98% Gerard O'Rourke Enterprise Development 50% Denis J Downey Ltd 50% Macroom Tidy Towns Rural Towns 75% Lee Valley Enterprise Board Basic Services 50% Ballinagree Community Development Company 75% Clondrohid Community Hall Committee 100% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group Rural Youth 90% IRD Duhallow's Youth & Education Working Group Water Resources 100% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group Biodiversity 74% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 100% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 75% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group Artisan Food 75% Lee Valley Enterprise Board 75% Toonsbridge Dairy Ltd Transnational 75% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group 100% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group Project Total

PROJECT NAME

GRANT COMMITTED €

Publication of Ireland at War - A Casestudy

1,570.00

The Installation of 3 Phase Electricity Publication of Muskerry Through the Lens

20,000.00 2,348.00

Macroom Christmas Lighting

6,441.36

The Development of Ballinagree Playground Upgrade of Clondrohid Community Hall Training for Community & Voluntary Groups

64,999.34 9,870.26 2,276.87

Duhallow Youth Research Project

2,582.00

Water Biodiversity Training for Communities

12,612.19

Duhallow Swift Boxes To Conduct a Biodiversity Training Plan Communities Planting for Biodiversity

5,241.54 3,510.45 9,999.99

Equipment for Macroom Food Festival Toons Bridge Dairy Expansion

28,136.73 162,574.92

The Day of the Region Project Smart Villages Training Delivery

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32,407.20 8,173.91 372,744.76

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2020 - 2021

LEADER Projects LEADER North Cork 2014-2020 % Aid PROMOTER Rural Tourism 50% Tom Dennehy 50% Kilguilkey House Ltd 50% Maritime Tourism Ltd 100% IRD Duhallow Women's Forum 100% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group 64% Millstreet Pipe Band 44% Dromtariffe GAA 75% Kiskeam Development Association 75% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group 75% Katrin and Walter Ahlert 35% Derry and Marie Collins Enterprise Development 100% IRD Duhallow's Enterprise Working Group 50% Cromur Engineering 50% Daniel P Buckley Wool Merchants Ltd 50% Kanturk Mart 50% Hickey Metering 50% Erin Geraghty 50% Michael Winters 50% John Pigott 50% Vanhalen Engineering Ltd 50% Kanturk CVRT 50% John Guerin 75% Janet Burke 75% Corkery Alu-Cast Enterprises 75% Patricia O'Reilly Rural Towns 75% Boherbue Community Sports Centre CLG 75% Araglen Development Association 75% Boherbue Parish Hall Committee 75% Lyre Community, Culture, Sport and Leisure Association Ltd 75% Banteer Old School Heritage & Drama Trust Clg 75% Kanturk Rugby Football Club 86% Knocknagree Community Group 75% Rockchapel Community Centre 75% Kilbrin Community Council 46% Millstreet Town Park Committee 75% Newmarket GAA 74% Newmarket Community Development Association 75% Kanturk Christmas Lights Committee Broadband 75% Aubane Social Club 75% Laharn Community Action Ltd 75% IRD Duhallow's Employment and Training Working Group 90% Kilbrin Community Council 75% Banteer Community Sportsfield CLG Basic Services 75% Boherbue Community Development Association 90% Millstreet & District Housing Equipment 75% Tullylease Playground Committee 75% Rockchapel Community Council 100% Cullen Pipe Band 52% Bweeng Community Hall and Grounds Committee 60% Kiskeam Development Association 59% Kanturk & District Community Council 75% Kilbrin Community Council 90% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group 75% Banteer Community Sportsfield CLG 90% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group 45% Millstreet Town Park Committee 100% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group 90% Bweeng Trail Blazers Athletic Club 36% Kanturk Community Astro Turf CLG

PROJECT NAME The Development of Self Catering Accommodation Purchase of Portable Stabling Enhancement of facilities and Equipment for Ballyhass Lakes History, Heritage and Genealogy Training Training in the Planning, Recording and Publication of Community Led Heritage & Historical Stories Millstreet Pipe Band Uniforms and Equipment Publication of Dromtarriffe Through the Years Kiskeam Walking Trail Duhallow Trails App Mount Hillary Holiday Pods Development of Fox's Cottage

GRANT COMMITTED € 20,000.00 25,000.00 40,012.40 7,800.00 12,850.00 25,000.00 5,000.00 24,750.00 21,840.00 36,869.07

The Provision of a Suite of Start Your Own Business Training Programmes Purchase of Equipment Purchase of a Wool Press Baling Machine Development of New Car Park Purchase of Equipment Class Development for Cork Baby Sensory Development of New Gallops Purchase of an Engraving Machine Purchase of a CNC Plasma Cutter Development of Kanturk CVRT Centre Purchase of a Wheel Lathe for Alloy Wheel Refurbishment New Jumping Equipment for Valley View Equestrian Centre The Purchase of a Robotic Welding Cell Additional Equipment for Duhallow Gymnastics

5,550.00 30,000.00 10,000.00 39,999.99 12,500.00 1,151.02 40,000.00 2,694.50 55,000.00 88,746.96 14,970.00 8,561.69 64,950.00 16,693.29

Refurbishment of Boherbue Community Sports Centre & Construction of Indoor Sports Wall Repairs to the Footbridge of the Glouneen Loopwalk Repair of Roof of Boherbue Parish Hall Development of Lyre Community Park & Leisure Area Glen Theatre Lighting, Seating & Equipment Repair of KRFC Driveway & Carpark To Conduct a Community Development Plan for Knocknagree Upgrades to Rockchapel Community Centre Refurbishment of Kilbrin Community Centre Refurbishment of Millstreet Playground Development of Newmarket GAA Walkway Floodlighting of Newmarket Tennis Courts Kanturk Christmas Lights

12,373.52 10,300.12 22,813.00 35,752.00 20,721.94 37,029.37 27,673.12 10,545.50 8,475.00 55,431.66 35,114.06 35,125.00 18,832.00

Purchase of ICT Equipment Laharn Broadband Connection Point Upgrade of Computer Lab Development of Kilbrin Community Hub Development of Banteer Hub

1,259.25 2,074.40 10,000.00 9,853.21 7,719.60

Development of Boherbue Foot Path Purchase of Equipment for Millstreet Day Care Centre Development of Tullylease Playground Rockchapel Playground Development Cullen Pipe Band Tuition Programme Upgrade of Community Hall Roof Development of Kiskeam Playground Kanturk Playground Refurbishment Upgrades and Equipment for Kilbrin Community and Sports Centre Community Gardens Lawnmower Banteer Community Sportsfield Carpark The Purchase of Community Training Equipment Upgrades to Millstreet Town Park Training for Duhallow Community & Voluntary Groups Feasibility Study for Bweeng Community Sports and Recreational Facility Development of Car Park for Kanturk Community Astro Turf

40,000.00 2,665.00 37,104.64 36,435.20 4,755.89 44,785.55 57,200.00 57,615.11 25,962.80 14,157.00 62,590.00 26,408.25 15,000.00 2,974.66 10,236.60 40,000.00

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2021 - 2022

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

LEADER Projects LEADER North Cork 2014-2020 % Aid PROMOTER Rural Youth 90% IRD Duhallow Youth and Education Working Group 75% Newmarket Pitch & Putt 75% Freemount Community Development 75% Kanturk AFC 75% Freemount Community Development Water Resources 90% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 100% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group Biodiversity 75% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 75% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 90% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 74% Boherbue Community Development Association 90% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 100% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 75% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group Renewables 75% Banteer Community Sportsfield CLG 90% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group Biodiversity Artisan Food 75% Bainne Codladh Limited (Lullaby Milk) 50% Duhallow Community Food Services 75% Jack McCarthy (Kanturk) Ltd Renewables Transnational 75% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group 90% IRD Duhallow's Environment Working Group 90% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group 100% IRD Duhallow's Community Development Working Group Project Total Committed

PROJECT NAME

GRANT COMMITTED €

Duhallow Youth Research Project Upgrading and Development of Newmarket Pitch and Putt Surfacing of Freemount Community Centre Car Park Kanturk AFC Boundary & Security Fencing Development of Freemount Youth Space

12,647.00 48,266.06 42,842.00 18,166.10 38,809.35

Feasibility Study on the Allow, Dalua & Glen Rivers Water Biodiversity Training Programme For Duhallow Communities

4,374.90 35,481.33

The Conservation of Swifts in Duhallow Publication of a Living Landscape Duhallow Bog Feasibility Study Development of a Biodiversity / Wild Flower Garden Barn Owl Monitoring and Awareness To Conduct a Biodiversity Training Plan Communities Planting for Biodiversity Project

19,033.40 6,787.50 7,583.69 8,700.00 23,283.00 17,189.10 117,642.81

Banteer Community Sportsfield Renewable Energy Project Feasibility study into Duhallow Anaerobic Digester Hub

17,867.25 24,516.00

Feasibility Study for Lullaby Milk Equipment for the development of DCFS Food Production Area Fit Out

5,625.00 45,504.29 80,071.14

Duhallow Day of the Region Cooperation Project River Feale Catchment Management Study SMART Village Training Curriculum Cooperation Project Smart Villages Training Delivery

158,683.51 9,711.90 7,078.50 16,347.83 2,215,134.03

LEADER Kerry 2014-2020 % Aid

PROMOTER

PROJECT NAME

GRANT COMMITTED €

Rural Tourism 75%

Cumann Luachra

Publication of the Sliabh Luachra Journal

21,882.00

Purchase of a Sandblasting Machine

56,000.00

Enterprise Development 50%

Sean Hickey Scaffolding

Rural Towns 75%

Rathmore Community Council

Rathmore Streetscape Development

78,013.65

75%

Gneeveguilla Community Development Assoc.

Gneeeguilla Sports & Leisure Centre

27,564.30

75%

Tureencahill Community Group

Tureencahill Community Centre Replacement of Windows

13,477.48

75%

Gneeveguilla GAA

Reroof of Function Room

8,250.00

Development of Tureencahill Hub

7,426.88

Broadband 90%

Tureencahill Community Group

Basic Services 72%

Tureencahill Community Group Ltd

Furniture and equipment for Tureencahill Community Centre

6,621.25

75%

Gneeveguilla GAA

Repair the Roof of Gneeveguilla Community Centre

37,774.88

90%

Gneeveguilla Community Development Assoc.

Teach Failte Upgrade and purchase of Equipment

5,564.08

100%

IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group

Training for Duhallow Community & Voluntary Groups

1,281.47

Youth Feasibility

2,582.00

Water Biodiversity Training

10,000.00

Rural Youth 90%

IRD Duhallow Youth and Education Working Group

Water Resources 100%

IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group

Biodiversity 74%

IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group

The Conservation of Swifts in Duhallow

5,164.73

90%

IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group

Duhallow Bog Feasibility Study

3,753.93

100%

IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group

Biodiversity Training Plans

3,510.45

75%

IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group

Communities Planting Project

28,411.03

Transnational 75%

IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group

The Day of the Region Project

Project Total

32,407.20 349,685.33

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

2020 - 2021

Social Enterprise Regeneration Programme What is a Social Enterprise?

Board of Directors, and Staff of purpose-driven social enterprises in the Duhallow region. The emphasis was to build sustainable and resilient social enterprises through training, mentoring, networking, and support from our Social Enterprise Development Officer, P.J. Murphy. The programme focused on Digital Innovation, Strategic Planning, Income Diversification, and Governance.

The interpretation of a social enterprise can change from person to person and often the value of a social enterprise can be forgotten amongst all the other enterprises out there. An accurate definition of a Social Enterprise is a trading organisation that works primarily to improve the lives of people. Their core aim is to achieve a positive social, societal, or environmental impact. Examples of PJ Murphy and Mary Galvin of Avondhu Blackwater Partnership with Taoiseach social enterprises in your area are Micheál Martin at the Wheel National Meals-on-Wheels, Men’s Sheds, Summit in Dublin.

Childcare facilities, Community Laundries, and more. Social enterprises pursue their goals by trading goods and services on an ongoing basis. However, any surpluses generated by social enterprises are re-invested into achieving social objectives, rather than maximising profit for their owners. During the pandemic, social enterprises across the country played a pivotal role in keeping vital services running while everything else shut down.

Thankfully, as we begin to move past the impacts of Covid-19 we can now start to appreciate and commend the role of social enterprises in our communities. The shame is many social enterprises do not know that they are one! Our community halls that rent out spaces for Zumba, Card nights, and other social events are social enterprises. The community garden which is used to teach people about food sustainability and healthy eating but also sells their fruit and veg at the local market, they too are a social enterprise. What we want to see this year is community groups and other organisations who do good in our communities is to recognise that they are a social enterprise and say so proudly. So, when you can please support the social enterprise in your area and always be on the lookout for the next best social enterprise idea!

Mentoring Mentoring is having an industry professional you can meet with for guidance and advice on running your enterprise. Unfortunately, many social enterprises do not have the funds to pay for mentoring which is why we focused a large portion of the SERP fund on allowing the social enterprises to benefit from a valuable service. The benefits of mentoring are vast which is why we made mentoring free for the social enterprises.

The programme supplied over 130 hours of professional mentoring to social enterprises in the region. Highly qualified mentors from around Ireland were selected for a panel to meet the needs of social enterprises in the areas of Digital Innovation, Strategic Planning, Income Diversification, and Governance. The Social Enterprises then selected which areas they would like help with and then they were paired with the mentor who best suited their needs.

Colm O’Connor of Duhallow Furniture Revamp speaking at the Social Enterprise National Summit in Dublin.

Testimony – Jenny Cronin, IRD Duhallow Furniture Revamp A transformative experience for me and I am amazed at how much I have accomplished being mentored by Laura Curtin. The improvements made have been phenomenal. It has made my job here so much more efficient which subsequently has also made me feel much more confident, happy, and assertive in my role and myself.

Training & Workshops We wanted to do all we could to help social enterprises to bounce back after covid and upskilling was a vital part of helping managers and staff of social enterprises to do so. The Social Enterprise Regeneration Programme (SERP) supplied training and workshops across the areas of Digital Innovation, Strategic Planning, Income Diversification, and Governance. We were lucky enough to have in-person workshops but also benefitted from the newfound appreciation and want for online delivery also.

Members of Macroom Tidy Towns who received mentoring from Laura Curtin (left of flipchart) of Platinum Brand Communications.

Covid-19 Social Enterprise Regeneration Programme (SERP) IRD Duhallow and Avondhu Blackwater Partnership made up a consortium that was awarded the Covid-19 Social Enterprise Regeneration Programme (SERP) fund to help social enterprises across Duhallow and the Avondhu Blackwater area to bounce back after Covid.

The pandemic has been a particularly challenging time for the Social Enterprise sector in North/Mid Cork and East Kerry with many social enterprises fighting for their survival while simultaneously stepping up to ensure the wellbeing of their communities. The SERP was created to help social enterprises bounce back after covid and our programme, JUMP START offered a business regeneration package for the Managers,

#SocialiSE Summit Duhallow Furniture Revamp was selected to feature as a case study in a national event for social enterprises in Dublin. The #SocialiSE Summit was created to raise awareness of all the magnificent work being done by social enterprises in Ireland. Due to the performance of Duhallow Furniture Revamp, they were selected to exemplify how a social enterprise can be created, developed, and more so how to innovate. Only three social enterprises in the country were selected as case studies for the event.

Eoin Kennedy (B/R: Third from the right) ran two workshops at the James O'Keeffe Institute. The first workshop was on digital marketing and the second was on Website Design.

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PJ Murphy and Colm O'Connor are pictured with Donie McGrath from the Irish Local Development Network and John Ryan from the Department of Rural and Community Development for the media launch of the #SocialiSE Summit. A national event for Social Enterprises in Ireland.

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

SICAP The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP 2018 – 2023) is the Government’s primary social inclusion programme and is implemented by IRD Duhallow for the region. The programme which is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and co-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) aims to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion and equality by supporting both communities and individuals via community development, engagement, and collaboration.

The programme saw a 10% increase secured for 2022, however, despite this funding increased nationally the SICAP Programme for the region is relatively small and insufficient. We anxiously await guidelines for the next SICAP Tender with the hope that adequate funding will be restored.

and Reform stated that ‘This report clearly shows the importance of the Programme in addressing inequality and improving outcomes for the most disadvantaged groups and individuals in the country. We cannot underestimate the importance of this programme and its impact in communities around the country.”

This report highlights that the SICAP Programme Implementers like IRD Duhallow learned from their experiences of rolling out the programme during the pandemic in 2020 and then brought this flexibility, experience and understanding to bare again in 2021.

SICAP 2023-2028 The Department of Rural & Community Development has contracted KPMG to undertake an independent review of the current SICAP 2 Programme as well as designing the next SICAP 3 programme. The review aims to assess the relevance and effectiveness of current programme, gather the views of key stakeholders and make clear recommendations to inform the design of the new Programme. The ILDN Social Inclusion Managers Forum is actively consulting with members by reviewing the current programme and producing a position on the next SICAP 3 Programme.

The pandemic and its restrictions continued to have a significant impact on Irish society in 2021 which was even more pronounced for the more vulnerable and marginalised groups that IRD Duhallow works with. Our targeted supports and approaches to our vulnerable individuals, community groups, social enterprises and families have helped to ensure that those most at risk are supported and accessing services. IRD Duhallow continued to deliver blended learning and tailored all courses and workshops to the individual cohort and topic in hand. Up until early 2022 restrictions were still in place with many courses and workshops being delivered online but with the relaxing of restrictions we welcomed back many of our groups and networks to a face to face setting in a safe manner.

Recognition of SICAP Achievements The SICAP programme has recently been awarded the 2022 UN Public Services Award, in the category ‘Institutional Resilience and Innovative Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic’. This international recognition of the immense work undertaken through this programme in particular during the Covid 19 pandemic highlighted how SICAP was key to the Covid response at a local level. Greater flexibility was allowed during the pandemic under this programme which allowed us to reach out to those most in need in our region and tailor our supports specifically to what was needed on the ground.

Innovative responses during the pandemic saw staff redeployed to ensure we were able to expand our Friendly Phone Call service, emotional support counselling service, our meals on wheels, community laundry service and general emergency requests for food, fuel and medicinal supplies.

On the ground we can still see that many of our vulnerable target groups are finding that their members are slow to return to in person meetings due to developing a habit of staying at home and a fear of catching covid. We are animating the groups on the ground to overcome this.

For 2022 we were required to identify 3 Priority Areas under SICAP; Older People, Youth & People with disabilities were identified as them for the Duhallow region and we are working intensively with these 3 groups.

SICAP Annual Report 2022 Launched in July 22 Minister Michael McGrath Minister for Public Expenditure ACTION Goal 1 Action 1 Stakeholder Engagement

Newsletter Advertisements in Discover Duhallow Action 2 Empowerment of Disadvantaged Communities Grow Your Own Classes Practical Supports for People with Disabilities Action 3 Collaborative Networks Meeting costs for Women's Forum, the Saoi Network and NCCN Seminar 'Leaving Lock Down' Publicity and Awareness Raising Action 4 Intergration of New Communities Publicity and Awareness Raisin English Language Classes Sports Equipment for Residents in Drishane Multi Cultural Christmas Events Action 5 Community & Social Enterprise Supports for Discover Duhallow Revive Paint Tureencahill Community Group Total Goal 1 Budget

CORK € 5,227.26 3,967.26 1,260.00 848.00 608.00 240.00 768.55 343.52 205.20 219.83 1,977.96 595.68 235.00 860.00 287.28 2,542.63 1,673.57 869.06 11,364.40

KERRY

ACTION

€

Goal 2 (continued)

1,494.50 1,029.50 465.00 192.00 192.00

Action 8 Disability & Mental Health Comm Inclusion Emotional Support for Job Seekers Introduction for Forrest Bathing Courses Working Group Meetings Circus Workshops Christmas Outing for Adults with Disabilities Basic Craft Course Plain English Classes Cookery Course for people with Disabilities Towards Occupation Action 9 Labour Market Activation Forklift Experienced Learners Manual Handling Safe Pass Training Training Brochures Autumn Winter Excavator Training Grow Remote Workshop SICAP Stories PR Forklift Novice Action 10 Job Centre Emotional Support Job Centre Clients CV Preparation Working Group Meetings Newspapers Irish National Organisation of the Unemployed Zoom Licence for the Job Centre Action 11 Self Employment Mentoring Programme Start Your Own Business Training Start Your Own Business Bootcamp Working Group Meetings Develop Your Business Mentoring Event Kerry Month of Enterprise Transport Action 12 Supporting Disadvantaged Children & Families Literacy Programme Technology, Social Media and Family Life Workshop Nurturing Resilience Workshop IT Equipment Circus Workshops Transport Action 13 Adult & Second Chance Education Bursary for Phyllis Healy Bursary for Andrew Lavery Bursary for Rachel Shaughnessy Bursary for David Lehane Bursary for Maria Brennan Bursary for Katie Togher Bursary for Marcella Dillon Bursary for Majella O'Dwyer Total Goal 2 Budget

185.28 126.48 58.8 327.98 229.36 90.00 8.62 1,918.73 1328.33 590.4 4,118.49

Goal 2 Action 6 Connecting Youth Provision Career Guidance Workshop Support for Agri Kids Farm Safety Programme Public Speaking Programme Astronomy Classes Workshop on Apprenticeships Basic First Aid Working Group Meetings My Future + Action 7 Community Education & Life long learning Basic Online Irish Sign Language Training Course QQL Level 3 ISL Online course Anger Management Courses Recognition of Learning Ceremony Introduction to Feng Shui Women's Self Defence Classes Weening Your Baby Workshop Back Yard Astronomy Introduction to Journaling and Vision Boards Confident Online Communication Course Basic First Aid for Children Baby Reflexology Course Publicity / Advertising Workshop in Making Bird Boxes AED CPR Course Basic Craft Course Laptop Bags SICAP Stories PR Zoom for Online Learning

4,082.00 110.20 364.80 950.00 817.00 1,140.00 700.00 7,530.83 851.20 1,000.00 1,565.20 128.25 155.80 114.00 318.44 380.00 190.00 766.84 291.77 190.00 16.42 160.41 439.00 753.31 210.19

1,219.34 34.80 115.20 300.00 216.00 360.00 42.00 151.34 2,591.51 268.80 118.80 40.50 49.20 36.00 100.56 120.00 60.00 242.16 92.14 60.00 218.57 50.66 430.00 237.89 66.38 55.70 344.15

30

CORK

KERRY

€

€

2,763.71 304.00 600.00 258.32 306.53 222.04 523.49 285.00 152.00 112.33 5,574.53 1,000.00 50.00 3,040.00 263.18 1,026.00 19.00 176.35

755.80 204.00

2,204.90 1,633.76 456.00 50.46 26.68 38.00 6,857.08 2,037.95 3,310.40 608.00 54.72 846.01 5,853.64 3,877.94 372.40 418.00 96.94 900.00 188.36 2,950.00 500.00 500.00 340.00 150.00 500.00 330.00 130.00 500.00 37,816.69

81.58 96.80 70.11 165.31 90.00 48.00 2,028.81 960.00 83.11 324.00 6 55.70 600.00 922.48 405.64 144.00 188.76 12.00 172.08 1,623.13 450.00 389.60 192.00 17.28 300 274.25 1,410.07 1,100.99 117.60 132.00 59.48

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

2020 - 2021

Support For Ukrainian Refugees donations. We purchased large quantities of toiletries and personal items as the turnover of Refugees moving on and being replaced needed to be addressed weekly, some of our SICAP Celestine McCoy, Renate Murphy of Cameo and Rhona budget was diverted to Abbey organised the Ukrainian Ladies Lunch Fundraiser assist with these costs. We worked closely with St Vincent de Paul Kanturk, in the coordination of this and soon, with the volumes of donations, required and arriving we rented a large marquee at the James O’Keeffe Complex and purchased clothes racks and storage containers to sort and redistribute all donations, thereby setting up a regional hub. We put out a call for laptops and phones to assist young people with online learning. We sought and got terrific volunteers, who had already settled in Duhallow, to assist with translation. Through our community groups and Macra na Feirme we recruited volunteers who are working tirelessly with us in sorting donations. We organised emergency dental and doctors’ appointments and worked with Cancer Care Connect for transport needed for treatment in Cork cancer units. Local Link Cork came on board and provided transport to social welfare appointments for refugees also.

Staff from Gilead Sciences who volunteered their time to help with the processing of registrations of refugees in IRD Duhallow with Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow

With the influx of Ukrainian refugees, the Minister of State for Rural and Community Development, Joe O Brien, tasked Local Development Companies to co-ordinate the voluntary activities focused on supporting new arrivals from Ukraine in our respective regions. IRD Duhallow aware of one major hub being established at that time, prepared for those arriving. Then we became aware of a second hub so staff within the company were redeployed to help coordinate and deliver a range of supports.

Cork Ladies Fundraising Lunch; Attending on the day were Aisling Kelleher (Ernst & Young), Aileen Daly (Tax Partner EY), Maura Walsh (CEO IRD Duhallow) Geraldine O’Leary (IRD Duhallow Board), Sarah McGrath (Director EY).

Photo by Colm Lougheed

We are providing job seeking support, cv workshops and have undertaken a skills audit, lined up with employers in the region to identify vacant positions and have undertaken a training needs analysis with the refugees. A Start Your Own Business Course has commenced for Ukrainians funded by Duhallow Skillnet.

We started with a strategy to cover the basics for a start and with other supports to roll out once the refugees got settled in. We put a plan in place while waiting for the first group of refugees to arrive working closely with local schools, childcare services and GP practices to establish their capacity for new students and patients.

Victoria Zhavoronkova and her son Vladyslav receiving a laptop from Helen O’Sullivan of IRD Duhallow to help with his online studies. These laptops were donated to the company for refugees who need them for work/study.

Easter weekend saw the first groups of refugees arrive in Duhallow.

Exhausted and traumatised but safe they were all relieved to have somewhere to rest. We have now welcomed over 500 refugees into the rest centres in Banteer, Millstreet and in host accommodation across Duhallow. This is a large number for a rural region with over 350 in the town of Millstreet with a population of just Members of Rockchapel community with Louise Bourke of IRD Duhallow over 800 people. We recognised that transporting the donations collected we needed to ensure we achieved a locally for the Ukrainian Appeal regional response to this initiative and not just the town of Millstreet as such numbers are too high for any town of a similar size to integrate.

Our Social Inclusion Supports included a family fun integration day in Millstreet as the town has a population of well over 250 Asylum Seekers as well as the 355 Ukrainians. Local clubs and organisations have welcomed those interested in taking part in local sports.

We have worked closely with Cork ETB where they are delivering English language classes in the locality also.

The HSE provided funding for a Ukrainian support worker who also assists in translations for the HSE inreach team.

We have been working with the Irish Red Cross and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to find other suitable local accommodation.

Philanthropy/Fundraising As a company with charitable status, we are extremely grateful to companies who have financially donated to IRD Duhallow for our Ukrainian Appeal. Similarly, some amazing fundraising has been undertaken by individuals and groups to aid of our work with the Ukrainians in the region. All of this will go towards our future work on the ground in supporting displaced refugees in Duhallow.

To ensure we could support refugees with their needs we developed and worked from a three-pronged approach. Firstly, we focused on Humanitarian supports and put out a call to our communities for

Going Forward We are hopeful that funding will be allocated to IRD Duhallow under the SICAP Programme reflective of the needs of the 630 plus we are catering for. Once we receive this funding, we have already developed a plan of supports and activities ready to roll out for all refugees to avail of.

A day out at Fota - Free access was generously given by Fota Wildlife Park and transport sponsored by Ernst and Young for Ukrainian families in the region and residents of Drishane Castle.

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Participants of the Start Your Own Business Training Programme which was delivered by Ruth Cosgrave of Via Lutea through Skills Connect.

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

Equality & Social Inclusion Equality and Social Inclusion in Duhallow: While the theme of equality permeates through each of IRD Duhallow’s various functions, the specific remit of social inclusion is central to IRD Duhallow’s Equality Working Group. The function of the Equality Working Group is to champion and prioritise the needs of underrepresented groups in the Duhallow area through the promotion of strategic and supportive actions aimed at mitigating the impacts of social exclusion and disadvantage. With a diverse membership the working group consists of representatives who have given long-term voluntary service to the group and newer members who have become more recently involved.

Students who participated in the Duhallow Diversity Awareness Project from Scoil Mhuire Kanturk along with their teacher Ms. Crowley, Principal Mr. Denis Keating and Nollaig Murphy Development Officer IRD Duhallow.

In recent months there has been a changing landscape in Duhallow, due to the influx of Ukrainian refugees to the region. During the period 20212022 a number of supportive actions and events were undertaken, which were all underscored with the theme of valuing the diversity of Duhallow.

In 2021 IRD Duhallow was allocated funding to produce series of articles Children Fabian and Jakub enjoy their entitled ‘Integrating Communities by meeting with Santa Claus at the SICAP Placing a Spotlight on Inclusion’. The supported multicultural Christmas event in outcome of this was the submission Trade Union Hall Kanturk in December 2021. of a series of articles to the Discover Duhallow magazine highlighting the positive aspects of inclusion and the damaging impacts of social exclusion. Some of the articles submitted included information on the nine grounds of discrimination, inclusion in the workplace, the benefits of education in creating an equitable society and also a number of recipes for sharing. The result of this broad spectrum project was the promotion of the greater inclusion of minority groups by highlighting rights based issues impacting people from underrepresented backgrounds living locally.

Children enjoying having their faces painted at the LEADER supported Day of the Regions Family Fun Day held in Millstreet in May 2022, promoting inclusion of multiple nationalities in the region.

involves all members of the community working together. Reflecting on Irish society discussions were held on labelling and stereotyping.

Students then collaborated in a closing forum whereby they engaged in a discussion on the key attributes of their school communities which add to the diversity of the Duhallow area. The very impressive presenters gave a unique insight into the diversity of their own schools spotlighting the interesting aspects which make their school communities unique and different. The message from the students was very clear – “we are all connected, we should all be respected”.

IRD Duhallow’s Equality Working Group coordinated the provision of a number of hurleys and helmets for the use of children living in the Drishane Direct Provision Centre in Millstreet. Thanks to the Social Inclusion Community and Activation Programme this support was made possible. The purpose of this project was to Majella Canty of IRD Duhallow at a Social Inclusion trip to Fota Wildlife Park. This trip for refugees and asylum seekers encourage young was funded by EY and facilitated by Fota Wildlife Park. people to become involved in sporting activities and to establish connections through playing sport with their contemporaries. It is hoped that having access to the adequate equipment required to play, young people will be supported to take up sport.

A fixture in the IRD Duhallow calendar for many years, the annual multicultural Christmas event took place in December 2021 in Trade Union Hall Kanturk. IRD Duhallow’s Equality Working Group acknowledges that Christmas can be an isolating and difficult time for those without preestablished links to a locality.

Therefore, the theme of the night was ‘Embracing Diversity at Christmas Time’. The purpose of the event was to encourage connections between people living in the area. The attendance spanned from people who were new to the locality and those who are already resident in Duhallow.

In November 2022 Transition Year Students from Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra Rathmore, Millstreet Community School, Scoil Mhuire Kanturk and Coláiste Treasa Kanturk participated in a series of on line workshops under the Duhallow Diversity Awareness Project. Funded through the Community Integration Fund the students participated in workshops which specifically dealt with the issue of impact of exclusion, the importance of using thoughtful language and acknowledging people with a lesser say. Awareness was raised on the nine grounds of discrimination and students participated in highly interactive workshops dealing with migration with a key focus on the demographic profile of the local Duhallow area. With an emphasis on self-development these bespoke workshops encouraged all attendees to consider how inclusion

A group of children enjoy meeting Paw Patrol’s Chase at the LEADER supported Day of the Regions Family Fun Day held in Millstreet in May 2022, promoting inclusion of multiple nationalities in the region.

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Duhallow Carers IRD Duhallow established the Duhallow Carers Support Group in 2006 and since then has provided a range of supports for family carers throughout the region. In the past 16 years we have successfully delivered 3 Dormant Accounts Training Programmes to Members of the Duhallow Carers network Family Carers across Duhallow. We celebrating Mum’s Coffee Morning in the have over 150 carers on our James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket. database. Our group meets on the first Thursday of every month and we have a regular cohort of 35 carers who attend these meetings with many others availing of the various information seminars, workshops and events that we facilitate. This year we established a new sub group of the Duhallow Carers which provides supports to a specific group of carers for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Dormant Accounts 2021-2022 In time for Carers Week in June 2021, IRD Duhallow was delighted to launch the Duhallow Carers Dormant Accounts Programme 2021-2022, which had a particular focus on improving employment and selfKieran Butler of Future Careers with some employment opportunities for carers. of our participants of the Personal The Personal Development and Development and Careers Programme.

Careers skills course delivered earlier this year, focussed on and sought to assist with particular challenges faced by Family and Voluntary Carers including emotional and social impacts of their roles and often very little time for wellbeing and self-care.

Five themed workshops introduced career management concepts and activities and served as a catalyst to self-exploration, practical tips on job hunt supported by reflective Journals provided for each participant and pointers on effective reflective practice.

Attendees at the MS Office Essentials course, learning practical computer skills in the computer lab of the James O’Keeffe Institute.

The MS Office Essentials course for Family and Voluntary Carers was also very well attended and provided important employment skills for learners, to assist with the acquirement of paid employment. IRD Duhallow was delighted to offer a wide array of training courses and workshops, both accredited and nonaccredited offerings including a seminar on how to advocate on behalf or you child at school provided

by Inclusion Ireland and a very interesting session on the Assisted Decision Making Act followed by an information article in the Discover Duhallow Magazine. Further training A lovely treat for very deserving mums!

Kristina of Croi Beauty Newmarket highlights included Art therapy for providing beautiful manicures for our Carers, Patient Moving Handling, QQI Family and Voluntary Carers during Level 5 Intellectual Disabilities, Forest Mother’s Day celebration in the James Bathing and many more.

O’Keeffe Institute.

Kerry Walker, Forest School Leader and Forest Therapy Practitioner Mentor and Trainer of Nature Hub leading the Carers group in a Forest Bathing workshop. Forest Bathing means to ‘immerse oneself in the atmosphere of the forest’ offering a truly relaxing experience.

The Duhallow Carers network provides a safe environment and space for those looking after a loved one to get together to share experiences, skills and knowledge on their journey as Carers.

Whether it is an elderly relative, a person is looking after, a neighbour or child with special needs- Family and Voluntary Carers in Duhallow are wholeheartedly invited to attend meetings on the first Thursday of every month in the James O'Keeffe Institute, Newmarket. Alongside much needed peer support, IRD Duhallow was delighted to continue to offer training to those looking after loved ones, always with the view of helping Carers to be better equipped and understood, in particular in the light of the global COVID-19 pandemic which put activities on hold for a very long time.

One of the highlights funded through the Dormant Accounts fund was a Mother's Day coffee morning for Carers in Duhallow. The coffee morning took place on “Always a great evening when we get together!” Members of the Duhallow Carers Network enjoying a great chat and the 28th of March 2022 catch up during their monthly meeting. and was well attended and enjoyed by all.

Alongside delicious treats served by Duhallow Community Food Services, all Carers in attendance were delighted to take home a pampering surprise bag with little treats to sweeten their day. IRD Duhallow was delighted to have Kristina from Croi Beauty, Newmarket treating attendees to a manicure. A wonderful morning full of chatter, laughter and of course, delicious sweet and savoury food was the perfect way to celebrate Mother's Day.

Represented by Breda Buckley, long established member of the Duhallow Carers Network, the group was delighted to have the opportunity to directly discuss Carers related issues with Minister Norma Foley TD during her visit to Newmarket in 2021.

HSE National Lottery Grant for Carers IRD Duhallow was delighted to secure funding for Family and Voluntary Carers through the HSE National Lottery fund. Funding allowed IRD Duhallow to deliver training and events to improve the quality of life of those looking after a loved one. Offerings included a First Aid course, a course on mindfulness and wellbeing through Feng Shui.

Duhallow Carers group member Breda Buckley speaking with Minister Norma Foley TD

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Equality For Women & Childcare

Maura Walsh and Breeda Moynihan Cronin meeting with Judy O’Leary Chairperson of the Women’s Forum reviewing the upcoming activities being organised by the Women’s Forum.

The Women and Childcare Working Group aims to lead and to be a catalyst for change in the attainment of equality for women.

Approximately 35% of Irelands female population lives in rural areas, however, their offerings to rural Ireland continue to be undervalued.

Although it is 2022, women still face many challenges and are still at greater risk of disadvantage, particularly those most marginalised such as those parenting alone, with disabilities, older women and migrants.

Some of the challenges and disadvantages women are more likely to face are greater risk of poverty, earning low wages, main providers of unpaid care work, lone parent, accessing educational opportunities, precarious employment, sexual and domestic violence.

Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow, Micheline Sheehy – Skeffington (grand-daughter of Hanna Sheehy – Skeffington), Jeanette O’ Connell former vice chairperson of the Women’s Forum and Jack Roche former chairperson of IRD Duhallow pictured at the LEADER funded monument of Hanna Sheehy-Skeffington. 2022 marks 100 years since women got full rights to vote in Ireland.

be included in the Home Rule Bill. Hanna carried messages and supplies between outposts during the Easter Rising. She travelled to America to promote the Vote for Women as well as women’s rights. She was one of the most remarkable of all the activists produced by revolutionary Ireland.

IRD Duhallow’s Women’s Forum pioneered a life-sized monument depicting Hanna holding a ballot box, which was erected, in Kanturk Town park near the site of the old Mill Wheel beside where her childhood home stood.

The Working Group continues its efforts to identify and provide supports to address the issues that affect the lives of women in Duhallow and advocates for the positive development of women’s rights and opportunities, especially those disempowered within rural areas. A number of initiatives, supports and programmes have been put in place to meet the needs of women in Duhallow focusing on the development of confidence levels, assertiveness skills and self-esteem of women.

International Women’s Day

Women’s Forum The IRD Duhallow Women’s Forum was established in 1997, now in its 25th year, the IRD Duhallow Women’s Forum proudly represents Women from all walks of life across Duhallow.

The network strives to attract women from all decades and to promote the role of women in communities, politics, organisations, business, boards, sports, farming and many more. The Women’s Forum was delighted to ring in a year of milestone celebrations by resuming meetings in early 2021 and by planning exciting events for the summer and beyond after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Staff of IRD Duhallow stand tall for Gender Equality on International Women’s Day 2022 #Breakthebias

The forum is affiliated to the National Women’s Council of Ireland, which is an umbrella organisation for women’s groups in Ireland. This allows the Forum to link in and work with the NWCI in determining its core priorities and be involved in decision-making levels at local, national and international level.

International Women’s Day is celebrated across the globe on the 8th of March. IRD Duhallow takes great pride in celebrating this very special event through active staff engagement and showcases across social media channels and the Discover Duhallow magazine. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day was #BreakTheBias highlighting the importance of a gender equal world. It is a focal point in the movement for women’s rights around the globe.

100 years of women’s right to vote IRD Duhallow’s Women’s Forum recognises the many inspirational women in history that hail from Duhallow. Hanna Sheehy-Skeffington was born in Kanturk in 1877, and was instrumental in securing womens’ right to vote in Ireland. In 1918 after a long campaign they succeeded in getting the right for women to vote. But they had to be 30 years of age and own property. In 1922 all Irish women over 21 were given the right to vote.

Paediatric First Course A staple in the annual schedule of educational event, Paediatric First Aid was once again very popular and extremely well attended. It targeted health care staff, parents and

Hanna was born into a political family and she herself grew into an outspoken suffragette. Hanna, along with her husband Francis Skeffington and two friends, founded the militant Irish Women’s Franchise League to fight for women’s right to vote and for women’s citizenship to

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Participants of the Paediatric First Aid course funded through SICAP.

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Equality For Women & Childcare relatives who would like to be best able to respond to a crisis involving children of all ages, but particularly up to 5 years of age.

Therefore, in cases where the parents are not engaged in work or study, access to subsidised early learning and childcare for children of preschool age is generally only available during school holiday periods.

Self Defence Classes for Women The issue of women’s safety is of paramount importance to the Duhallow Women’s Forum. Violent incidents are well documented as having lasting and enduring implications for victims. Based on the premise that knowledge is empowering, we held a self-defence class with a view to helping women who may not be aware of how to protect themselves in potentially unsafe situations. Aimed at developing confidence, the training had significant physical and mental health benefits for those who participated. Funded through the IRD Duhallow’s SICAP Programme the self-defence techniques delivered at this training are important life skills which will be of long-term value for all those who were in attendance.

The Core Funding Scheme is a noteworthy breakthrough on the journey towards a new funding model. The aim of the funding is to change the sector and create a new type of partnership between the State and childcare providers that highlights the importance of childcare providers for the public good. Core Funding is designed to meet the combined objectives of: • Improved affordability for parents by ensuring that fees do not increase; • Improved quality through better pay and conditions for the workforce by supporting agreement on an Employment Regulation Order through the Joint Labour Committee; • Supporting the employment of graduate staff; and • Improved sustainability and stability for services.

North Cork Childcare Managers Network The North Cork Childcare Managers Network was established by IRD Duhallow in 2015 and is made up of managers of community childcare facilities from across North Cork and East Kerry. The meetings provide an environment to network, share information, expertise and have discussions. It is a collaborative platform with managers from 20 community childcare facilities as well as representatives from Cork County Childcare and IRD Duhallow. The Network meets on a bi-monthly basis where they share experiences, discuss challenges facing the childcare sector and to identify opportunities including funding and staff training.

Pat Forde, Self Defence Instructor, with the group of women that participated in the SICAP funded Self Defence Class.

Childcare The women’s forum had great foresight in the early 2000’s, when the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme was rolled out across the country. Through our staff, the Forum supported a number of communities to design, access grant aid, build and set up Community Childcare enterprises. Duhallow now boasts 6 Community Creches. It is hard to believe that over 20 years on, access to affordable childcare is still an issue. Staffing is also a huge barrier and a major issue for many of the local creches.

The Network identify training needs for the sector and feed in to IRD Duhallow Skillnet, SICAP and Social Enterprise Regeneration Programme to address these training needs. Childcare facilities have received funding for governance training for their board members and courses in such things as Lámh, Introduction to Play Therapy, Introduction to Aistear, Supporting a Child with ASD in a Childcare Setting etc. The Network identified the need for a Level 5 in Childcare, which is the minimum level required to work in a childcare facility, to try and alleviate the staff shortages all facilities are facing, which IRD Duhallow Skillnet is currently running at maximum capacity. IRD Duhallow Skillnet programme has in conjunction with the Women’s Forum and the North Cork Childcare Manager Network, delivered a BA Level 8 in Early Childhood Education and Care. Members of the Network welcomed the announcement of another Bachelor of Arts in Applied Early Childhood Education & Care via the IRD Duhallow Skillnet commencing in September 2022. This will result in over 200 trainees gaining a degree in childcare locally. It is anticipated that graduates of both the Level 5 and Bachelor of Arts will add to the available workforce at a local level combatting the current shortage of qualified childcare professionals in the sector and more specifically in Duhallow.

IRD Duhallow’s Billy Murphy and Stephanie Moynihan with Ann & Tommy Burke and Helen & Paddy Sheehan pictured at ”Children at play” signage for Murphy’s Terrace which was identified at IRD Duhallow community consultation meeting as being required.

The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, recently announced a couple of changes for childcare facilities that intend to positively affect both childcare facilities and families. Currently under the National Childcare Scheme, the hours spent in school are deducted from a family’s entitlement to subsidised hours.

Karen O Sullivan Manager of Cork County Childcare Committee with Board Member Mary Murphy and Chairperson Eileen Linehan.

Members of the North Cork Managers Childcare Network

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Saoi Network - Duhallow Actively Retired Groups The Saoi Network, one of the longest established networks operating under the umbrella of IRD Duhallow, consists of 21 active retirement groups spread throughout the Duhallow region. The network focusses its efforts on making improvements to the quality of life and wellbeing of older people in the region through increased provision of services and supports targeting senior citizens and by facilitating social outing opportunities for people to engage in and promoting the third Age concept.

Jack’s Mystery Tour 2022 in full swing with participants enjoying a great day out.

Saoi Network After being unable to meet in a meaningful way during the COVID-19 pandemic, the SAOI Network was delighted to resume meetings in late 2021. IRD Duhallow hosted a workshop for Senior Citizens on coping with anxiety and the unknown during the COVID-19 pandemic. This amazing workshop with Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist Sharon Clernon focused on tips and techniques on dealing with anxiety uncertainty, change and the unknown as well as managing worries and fears.

Bealtaine is a festival held throughout the month of May, which aims to promote actively ageing and encouraging older people to get involved in their community.

Dawn Mass As part of Bealtaine 2022, Newmarket Thursday Club hosted an afternoon of traditional music, song, storytelling and recitation alongside a beautiful Art & Craft display in the CYMS Hall

Clondrohid Active Retired Group on their scoraíocht night in the Community Hall for Bealtaine Festival.

Hundreds of older people got involved in events in their community with a wide range of activities from the Duhallow Dawn Chorus, Tea Dances, to Culture and Heritage evenings, as well as Chairperson Jack Roche’s Famous Mystery Tour, Walks, Day Time Cinema and the Duhallow Seniors Concert.

Maura Walsh, CEO of IRD Duhallow, along with visitors warming up with a nice cup of tea after the Dawn Mass

For the launch of the Duhallow Bealtaine Festival, IRD Duhallow’s Saoi network, was delighted to celebrate the annual Dawn Mass at the Source of the Blackwater on the 23rd of March 2022. Blessed with wonderfully mild and sunny weather, a very special and wonderful morning was enjoyed by all. Mass was celebrated by Father Tarrant of Ballydesmond accompanied by delightful musical performances by Anne Marie Lehane and her son Luke.

The Tureencahill Singers were delighted to perform at the Bealtaine Festival Concert in Castlemagner

Senior Alert Scheme (SAS) The Senior Alert Scheme continues to fund the provision of socially monitored alarms to householders over 66 years of age and IRD Duhallow is one of a number of companies registered with Pobal to deliver this scheme. This highly popular service allows qualifying householders to receive a free alarm and pendant which can be worn around the wrist or neck. When pressed it connects wirelessly to a base unit which is linked to your landline or mobile phone. This base unit immediately sends a call to a 24-hour monitoring centre. The equipment is supplied and installed free of charge along with one year’s free monitoring. After one year, the householder must pay the monitoring fee ranging from €65 to €137.

However, if there is no suitable landline available and a mobile signal is used to connect the equipment to the monitoring provider, a fee will be charged annually for SIM credit. In 2020, over 181 applications were approved by Pobal, and the alarms were installed by Tunstall Emergency Response. We continue to promote this service through the Saoi Network, Duhallow Revamp, Duhallow Community Laundry, DCFS and the Community Care group.

The location of the Source of Blackwater symbolises the start of new life and deep appreciation and love for nature, which Father Tarrant so fittingly emphasised on during the celebration of mass.

Afterwards, delicious treats were served by Duhallow Community Food Services. This Dawn Mass had to be held at this earlier time, rather than it’s usual date in May, due to the breeding of protected species and license requirements.

Bealtaine 2022 The Duhallow Saoi Network was delighted to see a return of the Bealtaine Festival post COVID-19 with many of the favourite in person events back on the calendar.

Con Sheehan and Margaret Foley alongside Stephanie Moynihan of IRD Duhallow opened the Daytime Cinema in celebration of Bealtaine 2022.

Friendly Phone Call Service IRD Duhallow’s Friendly Phone Call Service has been in operation for over 10 years and provides companionship to people over the phone continuing to seek volunteers to provide this very important service for the communities it is serving. IRD Duhallow proudly offers this fully confidential service tackling loneliness and isolation.

Almost ready to start the film!

Development Officer Stephanie Moynihan welcoming all present for the annual Daytime Cinema

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Disability and Mental Health Covid Restrictions may be lifted but we are still seeing the effects of the pandemic and its restrictions on people in our communities and even more so on those who struggle with their mental health. For some who lead normal lives before the pandemic many found the isolation and reduced interaction difficult mentally. For those who were already struggling the pandemic and its subsequent restrictions have had a profoundly negative affect on their daily lives. All of this coupled with rural isolation and loneliness has resulted in many people regressing and struggling with their every day living and mental health.

The therapeutic gardens are alive with colour and showing all the signs of this groups hard work. Coupled with all this physical activity, the Towards Occupation Group have also been working hard on their health and wellbeing with Rural Community Health Worker Majella. Film reviews, chair yoga, mindfulness exercises are some of the activities the group have been engaging in. One of the highlights of the summer for this IRD Duhallow CEO presenting a bouquet group was a trip to the Donkey of flowers to Trudy Taylor who has this year Sanctuary at Liscarroll planned and retired from leading the TO Sewing class.

Trudy was a regular tutor on the TO arranged by the group themselves programme since it started. with support from staff. We are hopeful that a more permanent source of funding will be acquired to help us to roll out the programme and expand it to meet the needs in the region, We will be seeking assistance from the HSE as well as an enhanced SICAP programme.

Towards Occupation

Walk for You

Members of the Towards Occupation Programme with co-ordinator Majella Canty and Tutor Una Murray participating in sewing classes funded by Cork ETB

The IRD Duhallow Walking Group is a newly established group who meet every Monday & Wednesday. Facilitated

by Majella Canty our Community Rural Mental Health Worker, our first walk took place at the James O’ Keeffe Complex around the beautiful Members of the Walk for You Initiative taking a well-earned setting of Newmarket rest in the Island Woods Newmarket Pitch & Putt and since then we have explored different routes in the Newmarket area including some of the trails at the Island Woods. A trip to Ballybunion was also organised where those in attendance got to enjoy the sea air and beautiful seaside walks. All participants are feeling the health benefits of this twice weekly walk and the group has really helped everyone reconnect with their fellow community members post covid.

This group is for both men and women of all fitness levels are welcome to take up this opportunity to meet people, enjoy the fresh air and increase their step count.

The Towards Personal Occupation programme is designed to provide those who are unemployed or distanced from education as a result of mental ill health /distress to develop the skills and confidence to achieve personal progression such as gaining employment, education, training or voluntary work and to achieve other positive outcomes for the participants e.g. improved socialisation, reduced welfare dependency.

This programme is based on needs continually identified through IRD Duhallow’s ongoing community development and employment activation work. From consultation with the people who have participated in the Towards Occupation Programme it emerged that a number of people with disabilities and those with mental health difficulties often have the feeling that they don’t belong in their community. Some of the participants remain long term unemployed and the Towards Occupation provides a broad spectrum of supports bearing in mind that individuals may not be ready for employment supports in the short-term but need access to other Julie Lehane with Rachel Bud participating types of “softer” supports such as in TO horticulture workshops in IRD Duhallow’s Sensory gardens Community Education in the interim.

Duhallow Emotional Support & Counselling Service Through our work in communities and with individuals and families we recognised that the need for counselling for those who could not afford to pay for it was a constant recurring issue. Now 8 years in existence the Duhallow Emotional Support & Counselling Service was established as a confidential, non-judgemental voluntary service offering emotional support & counselling. The service is provided by five voluntary Counsellors / Psychotherapists (made up of student and pre-accredited therapists) who offer one-to-one emotional support & counselling / psychotherapy to anyone over the age of 18 affected by mental ill health. During Covid the service was adapted to be delivered in a newer format and this option is still there if needed for people while the faceAoife Douglas, Counsellor who co-ordinates the IRD to-face sessions have also Duhallow Emotional Support & Counselling Service in a safe and private space in the James O’Keeffe returned.

DEASP have funded this project since 2005 and we have now exhausted AFSP funding from them. The support the group has only returned to in person sessions in June 2022 and got straight to work on improving their sewing skills with the support of Tutor Una on a 6 week sewing programme funded by Cork ETB. From past experience horticulture has always been a firm favourite with participants and Rachel Budd IRD Duhallow Horticulturist was on board to provide guidance and in a case of many hands make light work, beds were cleared, planted, and watered.

Participants of the TO Programme showing the beautiful blankets donated to the children using the Bumbulance Charity with tutor Trudy Taylor and Jim Burke of Bumbulance.

Complex.

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Rural Community Health New Rural Community Health Worker Majella Canty took up the position of Rural Community Health Worker (RCHW) at IRD Duhallow in February 2022. The role of the RCHW is to support and signpost people to activities which promote wellbeing.

The Rural Community Health Service is a collaborative initiative between IRD Duhallow and the HSE. The service aims to link people into local Majella Canty sorting through some of the activities within their communities many clothes donated by the Duhallow to improve their health and community. wellbeing. Developing and delivering community health initiatives specific to the needs of the local population is key to the role.

important tool in in suicide prevention which is a core objective of the Rural Community Health project.

Ukrainian Support Banteer/Millstreet IRD Duhallow was tasked to coordinate support for Ukrainian families arriving into Millstreet. As part Joanne McNamara and Majella Canty at of her role, Majella Canty supported safeTALK Training held at IRD Duhallow in the response and helped coordinate May. volunteers and worked with local translators and community people in supporting the families. Linking in with other agencies on the ground in Millstreet, Majella will continue to assist the Ukrainian refugees by providing accurate support information and identifying those who may need further support and signposting to relevant services e.g., GP, public health nurse.

Farmers Outreach Kanturk Mart Since its inception, IRD Duhallow has worked closely with farmers across a number of programmes such as EIP and RSS for small income farmers. In addition to this and in collaboration with Kanturk Mart our Rural Community Health Worker (RCHW) held an outreach event at the mart which introduced the new RCHW A stand was taken at Kanturk Mart as part of the Rural Community Health role, highlighting how it may support programme, raising awareness of Mental farmers in the community and Health amongst farmers, who are a key conducted a survey to identify needs. target group for this initiative.

The biggest priorities for this group were identified as stress management, tips to manage mental health, cancer prevention and farm safety. Contact information was collected from local farmers and a farmer’s group network was established. A health check night was planned for late May and a farm safety event will be held in September in collaboration with the Agricultural Environmental Specialist at IRD Duhallow and our Agriculture Working Group.

Active Workplace

Smiles all around - members of the new IRD Duhallow Walking Group enjoy a cuppa with Majella Canty, Rural Community Health Worker, the rain did not dampen the spirits.

Our RCHW participated in a webinar to promote an active workplace.

Delivered by HSE Health Promotion Officers for Physical Activity this webinar introduced participants to the benefits of physical activity in the workplace. We are now aiming to keep staff on their toes and get that step count up!

EIP Farmers Event Outreach Fitness Fridays, a Pitch & Putt league and a Step Count Challenge are some of the fun ways the staff at IRD have been getting active. The active workplace initiative is proving a great hit with staff who are competing to be crowned pitch and putt team of the year. The active workplace initiative allows staff to prioritise their health and wellbeing with a little friendly competition, lots of banter, fresh air, and exercise.

Majella Canty discussing the new Rural Community Health Project with farmers at a recent EIP event.

A pitch and putt competition was organised as part of the active workplace initiative.

Linking in with our agricultural – environmental team at IRD Duhallow, Majella our RCHW attended an EIP event, introduced herself to the group and highlighted how she can support them as RCHW. Speaking at this event was a great opportunity to promote the RCHW role and initiative.

Contacts were added to the farmer’s group network which will be used to promote health initiatives which may benefit the members.

Expressions of interest taken for health check evening and farm safety event.

Just For Dads Just for Dads is a programme aimed solely at men which highlights how important Dads are to their children’s development and provides opportunities for men to explore and develop their fathering role in a supportive, non-judgemental environment. The programme is centred on men, to help strengthen their resilience and build self-esteem. Just for Dads offers a safe space for fathers to come together to support and learn from each other, the programme will be delivered by Majella Canty (RCHW).

SafeTALK safeTALK training facilitated by the HSE took place in May, at IRD Duhallow with 23 participants completing the workshop. safeTALK training is a very

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STRIVE IRD Duhallow recognises the hugely positive impact that the Ability Programme had on individual’s health and wellbeing, which is why we are determined to continue to support these young people into employment and with their personal development.

The STRIVE programme is a Killian Buckley enjoying the Circus Skills continuation from Ability and is Workshop. funded through Dormant Accounts.

The aim is to support young people across a wide spectrum of abilities to improve their employment prospects and social skills through a range of person-centred supports and participation in community life. The programme is running from September 2021 to December 2022 on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the James O Keeffe Institute.

Education & Training A broad range of courses have been delivered this year including: • Social and Personal Development which included confidence building, community involvement, assertiveness, public speaking and relationship building.

• Career Preparation; interview skills, CV’s.

Great friendships have been formed on • Drama and Circus Skills.

STRIVE. Pictured here Joe Collins and Daniel O’Loughlin taking part in a walk • Art and Crafts. and talk around the pitch and putt.

• Cookery, Money Management, Teamwork.

• Sport, Exercise, Nutrition and Healthy Eating.

• Gardening and Nature Therapy.

Examples of the support available through STRIVE include: one-toone-person centred planning, support to develop life skills such as money management, laundry and cookery, work preparation training, social and personal development, dramatherapy, art & craft therapy, assistance in gaining The STRIVE programme is tailored to meet the needs of the individual participants; here is work experience and voluntary Barry O Brien (Tús) providing one to one placements and work shadowing. supports with Kevin O’Connor.

Social inclusion programmes such as the STRIVE Programme allow individuals to feel a sense of belonging and to make choices. It helps to identify the unique needs of the person, focusing on their strengths and abilities.

Coffee Morning in aid of the Irish Community Air Ambulance The group organised a coffee morning in aid of the Irish Community Air Ambulance, which was held in June in Duhallow Community Food Services. The group did all the planning and organising, and learned how to use the coffee machine, serve customers and make posters in preparation for the charity event. They Members of the STRIVE Group who successfully coordinated a Coffee Morning baked their own cakes, buns, scones in aid of the Irish Air Ambulance with chair and other treats for everyone to enjoy of the Equality Working Group Pat Brosnan on the morning. The coffee morning and Brighid Ide Walsh, IRD Duhallow. event was a great taster event to show the participants the different aspects of what’s involved in organising an event, while also raising money for a great charity.

IRD Duhallow is supporting 15 young people through person-centred supports to enable young people to advocate for themselves, make informed choices about how they want to live their life, at present and in the future. The programme has been key in helping the participants to develop skills to enhance their independence, build their self-confidence and in supporting greater engagement in community life. We work closely with a number of referral agencies including St. Joseph’s Foundation, HSE Mental Health Services and the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.

Engagement with Local Employers The STRIVE programme aims to help young people to gain the skills, competencies and experiences needed to be career ready. In July, the STRIVE participants undertook two weeks of work placement. They were supported to seek the work Mayor of the County of Cork Gillian Coughlan with placements themselves and Tim Twomey, Jamie O Donoghue, Kevin O Connor to make informed choices and Co-ordinator Bríghid-Íde Walsh about their future careers.

Some of the placements included Duhallow Furniture REVAMP, Duhallow Community Food Services, a local clothes shop, accounts / administration and a range of retail services.

The group met Minister for Education Norma Foley during her visit to IRD Duhallow, pictured with Jackie Kelly and Maura Walsh of IRD Duhallow.

Testimony – Tim Twomey Tim previously completed a year on Ability and is now participating on the STRIVE programme. He has recently started the Work Placement Experience Programme (WPEP) to build new skills and gain work experience.

“I started on Ability last year and I really enjoyed it and made good friends.

I decided I wanted to come back to the new STRIVE programme because I had a good experience and wanted to develop my skills more. The STRIVE programme has opened new opportunities for me and I am now partaking on the Work Placement Experience Programme (WPEP). I am working in the Duhallow Community Food Services for my placement, and I am learning a lot of new skills and getting to see what working life is like. I would recommend STRIVE to anyone, it given me something to do and I’ve made great friends on the course.”

STRIVE participant’s Tim Twomey and Daniel O’Loughlin painting their beautiful pottery pieces.

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Youth and Education Communicating Europe - Celebrating European Citizenship

IRD Duhallow supporting inclusivity in the classroom with dyslexia-friendly books Thirty-five schools across Cork and Kerry have each received a set of 4 dyslexia-friendly children’s books about Irish wildlife, thanks to IRD Duhallow CLG, and Burren author, Shane Casey. Dyslexia affects, on average, 3 children in every class of 24. However, despite a significant increase in the awareness and understanding of the challenges faced, there remains limited resources available for the children Development Officer Nollaig Murphy themselves. Through the support of provides supports to children with dyslexia IRD Duhallow, as part of the Social the Touch Type Read and Spell Inclusion and Community Activation to completetyping programme.

Programme, one collection of Irish published books, the ‘Nature’s Adventures’ collection, is working to buck this trend. The books use five simple techniques to make them more accessible for dyslexic readers. While they may not work in every case, there has been a very positive response from parents, teachers, and children with dyslexia.

Miriam O’Regan and TY students of Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra were excited to be part of this year’s Communicating Europe initiative.

In 2021, IRD Duhallow was delighted to once again be awarded funding under the Department of Foreign Affairs Communicating Europe initiative (CEI) for voluntary organisations, educational bodies and civil society groups and bodies.

This funding enabled IRD Duhallow to run the “The Celebrating European Citizenship project”, which sought to work with local secondary schools in Duhallow in delivering an online workshop to transition year students on what Europe means to transition year students as Irish citizens.

Virtual Career Guidance Workshop IRD Duhallow was delighted to once again offer the highly anticipated SICAP funded Virtual Career Guidance workshop- CAO Change of Mind and alternative pathways after Leaving Cert. This fantastic Virtual Career Guidance workshop was facilitated by Niamh O’Dwyer, who is a qualified Career Guidance Counsellor with 18 years’ experience of guiding and supporting students, parents and adults through various stages in their career journeys. It was very well attended and allowed students to learn about all options available to them after their Leaving Certificate so that they have a plan A, B or C! This event was not to be missed and engaged young people all throughout Duhallow.

Students Maeve Burns, Rachel Gaffney and Clara O’Leary of Millstreet Community School who took part in the Communicating Europe Initiative.

This online workshop took place in February 2022 and provided young people in Duhallow with the opportunity to have their views and voices heard by Members of the European Parliament ( MEP’s) who were invited to speak to the students and respond to questions that may arise. We were delighted to have had Deirdre Clune MEP and Billy Kelleher MEP generously giving their time to join the discussion with three of our local secondary schools: Millstreet Community School, Colaiste Treasa and Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra.

Public Speaking In November and December 2021, IRD Duhallow held the 14th Public Speaking event for 4th, 5th and 6th class students from Primary Schools across Duhallow. Students participated in one-hour workshops over the course of four weekend’s covering topics such as standing up, speaking and eye contact, hand gestures, facial expressions, story delivery, speech structure, visual aids and body language. Following the success of last year’s online format, the public speaking classes were delivered via Zoom again this year. The renowned Siobhán Keenan Fitzgerald who has worked as a national school principal and is now attached to the NCCA (National Council for Curriculum and Assessment) facilitated the classes in question. Siobhan is the creator of the LET's Stand (L-Listen, E-Evaluate, T-Talk, S-Stand) Public Speaking Programme curriculum for primary school children that engages all students actively in an individualised child-centred programme, developing their listening, evaluation and speaking skills in a structured way, she has also featured as a Dragons’ Den contestant and has given a TEDx talk. On the fifth week of the programme students from schools in Newmarket, Ballyhass, Boherbue, Kanturk, Millstreet, Hollymount and Cullen showcased their public speaking skills, giving inspiring speeches on a broad spectrum of topics, during the closing event for their parents and teachers. This SICAP supported event will be upcoming again in Autumn/Winter 2022.

Literacy and Touch Type Read Spell Classes IRD Duhallow offers weekly-targeted supports for children with literacy learning differences such as dyslexia with literacy and Touch Type Read Spell (TTRS) classes. The focus of the weekly literacy classes is on the development of reading, writing and Developing Officers, Nollaig Murphy and Bríghid-Íde Walsh presenting the dyslexiaspelling skillset, are facilitated by friendly books to literacy teachers Mary teachers and have a low pupil Anne Murphy and Aoife O Connor. teacher ratio. TTRS is a multi-sensory learning strategy computer programme building on reading, listening and typing skills through modules, repetition and dictation exercises to reinforce learning.

Aoife O Connor, Mary Anne Murphy Literacy Teachers, Nollaig Murphy, Bríghid-Íde Walsh Development Officers and Sinead Guiney Literacy Teacher with the Literacy and TTRS students after receiving their awards and certificates in recognition of all the hard work they put in throughout the year.

TTRS also allow children to build on their computer skills learning how to properly place their fingers on the keyboard for typing and mastering the use of a mouse which are skills that will benefit them for life. These classes are funded through SICAP and are offered at very affordable prices for families in the Duhallow area.

First Aid for Young People

Jerry Harrington, Ayrton Group, demonstrating CPR to the young people participating in the Mini First Aid Course.

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IRD Duhallow Youth and Education Working Group recognises the importance of first aid training from an early age and organised a Mini First Aid Course for Young People aged between 8 and 16 funded through SICAP. In the 3 ½ hour session, children learned to deal with bumps, burns, breaks and bleeding,

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Youth and Education

Cllr Gearoid Murphy, Dr. Rory O Donnell, Michael Moynihan TD, Minister for Education Norma Foley, Maura Walsh CEO of IRD Duhallow, along with Board Members; Anne Maria Bourke and Michael Twohig at the launch of the Youth Needs Analysis Report.

carry out CPR and deal with choking. The class was practical, with lots of fun and the young people went away with the confidence in dealing with accidents if necessary.

Apprenticeship Preparation Course The Apprenticeship Preparation Course was delivered online and gave young people everything they need to succeed at the selection tests and interviews used in a variety of apprenticeship competitions like the ESB, Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, Aer Lingus, Altantice Aviation Group, eir etc.

Young people gained transferable skills and interview skills that they can use for any job application. After completion of the course participants have access to an e-learning platform for 12 months where they can continue to practice for the apprenticeship competitions.

Webinar: Supporting Children with Dyslexia At Second Level Many parents of students with dyslexia struggle to know how to support the student at second level as the challenges are different to those experienced at primary level and the present Covid crisis has exacerbated this. This Webinar gave practical help and advice to parents of second level students and also parents of 5th and 6th class children. The topics addressed included: how dyslexia affects the student at second level, key educational choices such as subject choice, language exemptions etc., resources such as useful websites, and ways to support the student in the following areas such as organisation, note taking, memory and learning, reading, writing, spelling and vocabulary.

Dr. Brendan O’Keeffe presenting his findings from the Duhallow Youth Feasibility Study report at its official launch in the James O’Keeffe Institute.

Circus Workshops IRD Duhallow was successful in an application to Cork County Council Arts Grant and received part funding for Circus Skills Workshops. IRD Duhallow’s Afterschools and STRIVE programme participated in 6 weeks of Circus Skills Workshops from two Cork circus companiesAlchemy Arts and the Circus Factory. The workshops opened children's and young adult’s minds to very different art forms to what is normally on offer locally. In rural Duhallow often GAA is the only social outlet for many of our young people; these new experiences and different art forms have hopefully inspired them to develop an interest in arts in their community.

Launch of Youth Feasibility Study The Youth feasibility Study, was funded through LEADER and allowed IRD Duhallow to commission the GESERA Institute of Action, to carry out a comprehensive needs analysis of young people aged 16-35 across the Duhallow and Lee Valley areas. IRD Duhallow was delighted to welcome Minister for Education Norma Foley in July 2021 to officially launch this extensive and in-depth Dr. Rory O’Donnell who wrote the preface for the report with Dr Rory O Youth Feasibility Report presenting at its official Donnell (who wrote the launch. foreword), Dr Brendan O Keeffe, Maura Walsh and Anne Marie Bourke also presenting the report and it’s findings. This research represents one of the most extensive and in-depth studies undertaken among young people in rural Ireland.

The Afterschools children enjoying the Circus Workshops with Will Flanagan of Alchemy Arts.

This was part funded by the Cork County Council Arts Fund.

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Employment and Training The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in unparalleled challenges for IRD Duhallow in delivering Employment and Training offerings and services.

IRD Duhallow’s Colm O’Connor and Stephanie Moynihan developed a ‘Build your own nest box course’ which was delivered online through the pandemic.

The challenges faced were and remain varied affecting both members of our communities as well as staff serving the same. Challenges included the uncertainties in relation to the ever evolving epidemiological situation, changes in public health advice, high levels of fear and heightened anxiety among people and simply put an unprecedented landscape for staff to operate. Limited IT skills and poor broadband connectivity in parts of Duhallow remained a major challenge for those wishing to participate in online offerings.

IRD Duhallow has a laptop library, which allows students to ‘check out’ a laptop to help support them with online learning and assignments. Stephanie Moynihan of IRD Duhallow loaning a laptop to Rachel Passet.

Online SICAP booking forms were introduced in order to facilitate data collection without face-to-face interactions.

The work of the IRD Duhallow Employment and Training team was monumental in assisting newly arriving Ukrainians in Duhallow by assisting in securing employment and Stephanie Moynihan from IRD Duhallow accessing training. As the local with Board member Padraic O’Connell and development company for the region, some of his colleagues from Bord Gais who delivered a CV clinic with Ukrainian IRD Duhallow worked closely with local employers in identifying Residents in the Green Glens in Millstreet. employment opportunities suitable for local people in Duhallow greatly benefiting from long established relationships and rapport. Acting as in information point and trusted partner for Employment and Training, IRD Duhallow took great pride in integrating new arrivals into their host communities.

The team at IRD Duhallow remained highly motivated, professional, committed and determined to serve its communities and most importantly vulnerable cohorts in unprecedented need of support, services and encouragement.

Across various programmes including SICAP, Dormant Accounts and HSE National Lottery Funding for Family Carers, Skillnet etc. IRD Duhallow supported almost 2000 learners by providing 180 + courses.

Development Officers continued to work closely with scheme participants from programmes such as the Tús community work placement scheme, the Rural Social Scheme, Community Employment and the Community Services Programme and their respective supervisors. Having these employment schemes based in-house continues to allow for a comprehensive wrap around service for participants being able to access multiple services offered by IRD Duhallow, including the Job centre and labour market activation training opportunities, resulting in a coherent approach of service.

Job centre The IRD Duhallow Job Centre offers an array of services for employers and individuals seeking employment. The Job Centre offerings successfully pivoted to online delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Duhallow Job Centre actively promoted its services in the communities it is serving using An excellent Curriculum Vitae is often the first step in seeking employment. several outlets of advertising. These Development Officer Stephanie assisting included the IRD Duhallow website Job centre client in writing her CV. including designated Job Centre page, monthly IRD Duhallow newsletter reaching 14,200 homes in Duhallow, the Discover Duhallow magazine with 4,000 fortnightly editions, the IRD Duhallow Facebook page and training brochures. IRD Duhallow Job Centre is benefiting strongly from referrals and word of mouth with the communities of Duhallow. The publication of fortnightly articles in the Discover Duhallow magazine has had a positive impact on promoting the service by providing topical advice supporting the service in reaching a diverse pool of candidates. IRD Duhallow Job Centre successfully expanded on its service portfolio by not only introducing monthly CV clinics and interview preparation workshops in 2021/2022 but also launching fortnightly digital newsletters to all those on the Job centre database. Further, monthly updates are posted on social media and the IRD Duhallow website. IRD Duhallow has been instrumental in assisting Ukrainian refugees in Duhallow with CV preparation and job search as part of their response to the Ukrainian Crisis. By connecting with Ukrainians currently living in Duhallow, IRD Duhallow assisted with the identification of employment opportunities and identification of training requirements to achieve “job-readiness”.

The approach taken was largely hybrid (online and face- to –face) with the view of connecting and reconnecting after initial lockdowns in 2020 and 2021. IRD Duhallow’s work required this adjusted approach, in order to allow for the strict adherence to public health guidelines, protecting both its staff members and clients, all while finding innovative ways to deliver services.

Marketing and promotional efforts in our community newsletter reaching 14,200 homes and through our social media channels remained strong alongside text message campaigns and promotional posters.

IRD Duhallow Job centre publishes fortnightly articles in the Discover Duhallow magazine giving readers topical advice on employment related topics.

especially at a time of face to face meetings or training. IRD Duhallow went over and beyond in protecting its patrons by carefully documenting individual details to accommodate contract tracing if required, temperature checks, phone calls in advance of events in order to ensure that participants would not attend if experiencing symptoms of COVID19, room set ups always ensuring adequate spacing etc.

While the adaptation of offers played a significant role in delivering services in 2021/2022, it is also important to highlight the strong efforts made in ensuring that all possible safety measures were undertaken and strictly followed-

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Employment and Training Community Education and Lifelong Learning IRD Duhallow prides itself in offering a varied, diverse and innovative community education offering for the communities it is serving. The delivery of community education offerings was faced by numerous obstacles since the COVID-19 pandemic began requiring operational adaptations.

The delivery of our community education programmes largely shifted Learn how to play chess with IRD to a virtual delivery in order to Duhallow! This innovative Community Education offering welcomed learners maintain best practice public health from all across Duhallow. guidelines and requirements. In the second last quarter of 2021, in person training re-commenced. IRD Duhallow offered in excess of twenty educational courses in 2021/2022 ranging from Self-defence for women to an introduction to Astronomy.

Further, IRD Duhallow offered hybrid training opportunities such as the ‘Build your own nest box’ entailing virtual tutorial with the provision of nest box flat packs for learners, adding a tangible element to the training.

Certainly a strong result of the so called ‘new normal’ during the current COVID- 19 pandemic has been the emergence of online training opportunities. Lifelong learning has never been more accessible with fantastic courses and workshops only a mouse click away.

were offered including Safe Pass training 360 Excavator training and a workshop on remote working opportunities, focussing on remote working opportunities.

Adult and Second Chance Education Bursaries IRD Duhallow has long promoted community education and lifelong learning as a driver of social inclusion and positive social impacts in the locality. Regardless of age and circumstances the opportunity to participate in education has been seen to be pivotal in the Duhallow region as a change creator. IRD Duhallow Employment and Training Working Group has supported the provision of a number of grants to individuals to facilitate access and entry to further and higher-level education.

Many rural dwellers face additional barriers when trying access to higher education including poor broadband infrastructure, the infrequency of public transport and overall increases in the general in the cost of living.

In the last year, 8 individuals have received funding from this measure under the SICAP programme. The availability of these bursaries has allowed these individuals to continue their education and become trained in various disciplines.

Testimony – Andrew Lavery " I applied for the SICAP bursary programme that was available at IRD Duhallow to help fund my Personal Training course in Cork. Without IRD, I would have found it very hard to fund the course I would just like to give a big thanks to IRD for contributing to my success as I am now employed full time as a fully qualified Personal Andrew Lavery Trainer. I would recommend the Bursary Programme for everyone that is struggling financially, it's a difference maker".

IRD Duhallow capitalised on virtual learning opportunities embracing its many advantages including convenience, economical benefits for both the company and learners and opportunity to upskill. Online learning is available to anyone who has access Astronomer Trevor O’Donoghue, Tutor of the SICAP funded Backyard Astronomy course and regular contributor to the to the internet on either Discover Duhallow Magazine. a smart phone, computer or tablet allowing learners to log on at home or any place convenient to them.

Work Placement Experience Programme (WPEP) IRD Duhallow Furniture Revamp and Duhallow Community Food Services are delighted to host two participants on the Work Placement Experience Programme; both participants had previously completed work experience through our Ability Programme in Revamp and DCFS and had expressed interest in furthering their experience. The progression route was identified and with the help of Rose Slattery, Employer Relations Officers for North Cork, two WPEP places were secured. The WPEP has a heavy emphasis on learning and development with participants expected to complete 60 hours of training; both accredited and nonaccredited. A learning and development plan was completed at the beginning of the programme with training needs identified; they are receiving on the job training, mentoring, accredited training in areas relevant to their work and coaching.

Online learning provided a much needed opportunity to learn new skills and engage with others-even if it was only virtually. Virtual platforms offered a great way to safely chat to other learners and tutors and gave participants a much need outlet to connect with others. Online learning gives provides learners access to tutors and speakers who are among the best in their fields.

Labour Market Activation

Getting job ready through SICAP funded Labour Market Activation. Participants of the Forklift programme upon the completion of the course.

Through our Labour Market Activation initiative, we aim to provide programmes supporting those in the search of employment or those seeking to update their skillset.

Course offerings are flexible and responsive in relation to different industry needs.

Various courses

Ecologist Interns Aisling Natoff and James Dempsey with Michael O’Connor, Ecologist of IRD Duhallow, surveying grasslands.

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Local Training Initiative IRD Duhallow’s LTI is funded by Cork Employment and Training Board and is focused on horticulture. Now in its sixth year, its success is largely attributable to the extensive grounds available to the project at the James O’Keeffe Institute. The Irish horticultural industry is an important economic sector in Ireland with an estimated farm gate value of €433m, which is the fourth highest sector in terms of gross agricultural commodity output value. In Andrew McCarthy showing off his skills at Duhallow the Local Training Initiative taking hardwood cuttings. These roses will be ready to be planted out next Autumn. provides vocational training opportunities in Horticulture, providing Level 4 and Level 5 certification leading to progression to further training, education and work in the horticultural sector.

They learn how to best select plants for different locations and environments and how to get the best out of flowering plants by careful planting and pruning. They learn about the importance of our most valuable resource of all, the soil, and how to care for it as a living entity. They also learnt how to be a part of nature, one aspect of the biodiversity all around us.

John Aherne, Moira Sheehan and Caroline O'Keeffe weaving in the living willow fence on a cold winters day.

Progression Opportunities To date 46 students have successfully completed the programme at Levels 4 and 5 with 38 achieving the major award, consisting of all nine modules. 9 Moira Sheehan’s summer colour container students successfully completed is beautiful and will attract bees and Level 5 with 8 achieving the major support wildlife. award. Four past students also achieved Level 5 qualifications at An tlonad Glas in Dromcollogher and at Cork Training Centre, with three progressing to Level 8 qualifications in Horticulture and Wildlife Biology. A number of past students have also found employment with local landscaping companies, garden centres, golf courses and organic food producers. Two past students have been employed by the OPW based at Muckross House in Killarney National Park.

Five students completed their Level 4 Certificate in August 2021, with 4 of them receiving Distinctions across all 8 modules despite the difficulties of having to work through Covid 19 regulations, including lockdowns, online learning and restrictions on field trips and work placements.

Their experience was undoubtedly Christmas 2021. - Natural Christmas different to those gone before, but Decorations workshop. the level of enthusiasm and resilience that each student brought to the gardens each day has been unchanged and we wish them all the best with the next projects they embark upon.

New Programme

The success of the horticulture training initiative is in no small part due to the extensive grounds and training facilities at the James O’Keefe Institute and the enthusiasm and commitment of each and every person who signs up to undertake the programme, whether they are experienced gardeners or complete novices.

Five new students started their Level 4 journey in September 2021, and have embraced each challenge with enthusiasm and hard work. This year’s students have been involved in starting a seed saving initiative with a dedicated polytunnel for preserving local and heritage varieties of seed suitable for the North Cork environment.

Over the 11 months of the programme the students learn how to propagate plants from seed, John Aherne delivers manure for this cuttings, division and other season’s potato crop. methods, they learn how to grow fruit and vegetables, including crop rotation and organic production.

Ampai Heiphimai presenting her hand made bouquet of flowers grown at IRD Duhallow to Minister Norma Foley.

Carrot seed crop in full flower. Part of our new seed saving initiative.

Testimony – Amphai Heiphimai I moved into Newmarket in Febuary 2020 and was so lucky that the Horticulture course level 4 was running so close by in IRD Duhallow.

I always have an informal interested in flowers and all kind of plants. But it wasn’t until I started the Horticulture course that I really began to understand about plants, flowers, organic growing, soil, biodiversity and so much more. Everyone in the course was so friendly and super supportive of each other.

Such a great learning environment here. The course is really fountain of everything Horticulture. Everything you need to know to grow organic and healthy strong plants. So that what I did!

With everything I learned from the course I started my own small cut flowers business. Fresh cut, chemical free and locally grown here in Newmarket. In the future I hope to expand and continue to grow Irish seasonal fresh cut flowers.

None of this would have been achievable without the help and support of my tutor Rachel Budd and IRD Duhallow.

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Community Employment IRD Duhallow’s CE Scheme

up skill and improve their confidence and Self-esteem on a personal level and improve their chances of gaining employment as this is the main object of the Community Employment Scheme.

IRD Duhallow has run its Community Employment Scheme since 1994. In 2020, our scheme expanded to take in the Kiskeam, Knocknagree, Ballydesmond Scheme. We now have 44 places on CE, with a Supervisor and Assistant Supervisor.

Martin O’Neill delivers our Free Discover Duhallow magazine to various shops and outlets across the region.

The purpose of CE is to help the long term unemployed re-enter the labour force, by working a maximum of three years on CE, participating in training and upskilling, gaining valuable work experience and undertaking intensive personal development through the Individual Learner Plan tool. The role of our supervisor, is to provide opportunity, support and coach participants in gaining skills and competencies in preparation for employment as well as maintaining effective and efficient administration and coordination of financial and material resources.

Joan Sheehan loading washing in the IRD Duhallow Community Laundry where she works part time on her scheme

Duhallow has always had a very active community ethos, with volunteering across the area always very high.

However, the pandemic has seen communities raise the bar. Our towns and villages have been very active and demand for support from CE and other schemes is at an all-time high.

Denis Carroll has responsibility for We aim to provide the best possible maintaining the pitch at Dromtariffe GAA service to communities while ensuring the most valuable work placement experience for participants.

IRD Duhallow has where possible, placed participants completing Tús onto CE. This facilitates a more steady long term plan for participants and gives people the time needed to prepare to return to work. This highlights the benefits of embedding employment services in the Local Development Company Structure.

This past year, training undertaken and funded by the department include Payroll Techniques, Manual Handling, Finance Accounting / Bookkeeping computer software sage, Nutrition, Professional Driving Modules, Forklift, Advance Excel, interview skills and Adult Education courses.

Paddy O’Connor Supervisor and Roger Flynn CE Participant meet to discuss training opportunities to support progression

Our Job Centre Development Officer is available to work with participants when they are ready to move forward to employment, with CV preparation and Interview Skills.

Community Employment Participants complete the small engines Course

Jason Buckland completed 3 years on CE in February. He was fortunate to avail of Accounting Technician Training while on the scheme and gained valuable work experience in accounts. He has gained full time employment with FDC in Kanturk

Our current scheme covers the communities of Dromtarriffe, Cullen, Rathcoole, Newmarket Kilcorney, Banteer, Lyre, Boherbue, Ballydaly, Knocknagree, Ballydesmond and Kiskeam. The scheme also provides support to a number of Community enterprises including Newmarket Pitch and Putt, Duhallow Community Laundry, Duhallow Revamp and Duhallow Community Food Services. The role CE plays in these communities, cannot be underestimated.

Community Employment Drug Rehabilitation Scheme IRD Duhallow has been awarded a second CE scheme. The overall objective will be to provide opportunities for people in recovery from substance misuse to re-engage into their communities and activate them for entry to the labour market. The schemes will assist in bridging the gap between long-term unemployment and the open labour market. It is characterised by offering paid work on a temporary contract, together with training, personal development and job search activities. Through our experience of supporting those in recovery through other programmes and services, we are cognisant that no two people are the same and their interests and skills often differ. Many are unsure of what direction to take and therefore are not ready to make a decision relating to their future career. By offering a CE scheme placement as well as wrap around support services available through IRD Duhallow, it will maximise the likelihood of positive progression for the person in recovery. It will allow the person to move forward at a pace which is appropriate for them thus reducing the risk of relapse which can be significantly detrimental to motivation for a person in recovery. It is envisaged that the CE scheme participants will increase their self-esteem and aspirations, enhance their CV, get ‘job ready’ or ‘further education ready’, have a possible reference for future employment or entry to educational institutes whilst also developing new positive friendships and networks in tandem.

Participant Development through Training The key difference between CE and other labour market schemes, is that training plays a central role in the Community Employment Scheme. The Department Of Social Protection stipulate that only QQI FETAC, City and Guilds or other Certificate qualifications can be funded. The Supervisor encourages all participants to consider Specific Training so that they can

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Rural Social Scheme The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) was introduced in 2004, an innovative and dynamic scheme that was designed to address the decline in agriculture in rural areas, and to support the small family farm to remain viable by providing part-time community-based employment to farmers. Almost eighteen years on, it is needed now more than ever as custodians of the land, farmers work ethic has a hugely positive influence on participants in our other schemes such as Tús and CE.

participants who commenced the scheme prior to 1st February 2017.

IRD Duhallow scheme has 74 places, and we currently have vacancies.

Eligibility to join the RSS In order to be eligible to join the RSS you, your spouse or family member must be in receipt of a means tested payment such as Farm Assist or Jobseekers Allowance have a Basic Payment Scheme payment and be actively farming more than 1 hectare.

Financial Benefits of being on the scheme The rates of payment for new participants will depend on your qualifying Department Social Protection payment. The minimum weekly payment increased to €230.50 in January 2022.

If the actual social welfare payment (including dependents) you were getting is €203 a week or less, then you will get the minimum RSS weekly rate of €230.50 (that is €208 plus €22.50). If your actual weekly social welfare payment (including dependents) was €208.01 or more, then you will get the equivalent rate plus €22.50.

Minister Norma Foley visited IRD Duhallow in July 2021 and RSS Supervisor Marie Fleming took the opportunity to inform the Minister of the wide variety of work that is completed in the Duhallow region through the schemes and in particular how during COVID-19 they all stepped up to ensure the continuity of all services in particular the Meals on Wheels, maintenance of walks and the laundry service.

The benefits of participating on IRD Duhallow’s Rural Social Scheme By joining IRD Duhallow’s RSS you will be entitled to a Class A stamp of which the benefits include access to a Contributory State Pension and you’ll be receiving an increased weekly income.

IRD Duhallow has implemented RSS since it was first introduced. The scheme offers low-income smallholders, their spouse or children, the opportunity to work across a range of community projects part time, which has a twofold benefit. Firstly, it allows off farm income to be generated and secondly, valuable community work is completed. IRD Duhallow runs all its schemes in an integrated fashion, therefore Tús, CE, RSS, CSP participants all run in tandem and in unison. This promotes equality or parity of esteem and also supports each participant to fully realise the benefits of working as part of team, towards one goal.

On the scheme you will work for 19.5 hours per week and receive the same statutory (pro rata) annual leave (10.5 days = 4 weeks) and public holiday entitlement as other employees.

We have a variety of work placements available of which such as; Caretaking at community and sporting facilities, Energy conservation work for the elderly and the less well-off, Village and countryside enhancement projects, Looking after waymarked ways, agreed walks and bog roads across Ireland, Social care and care of the elderly such as meals on wheels.

In June of this year, we welcomed two announcements from the Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys and Minister of State at the DRCD Joe O’Brien which will have a very positive impact, the first was the introduction of major new changes to the Farm Assist Means Test in a move that will benefit thousands of farmers. The Minister has signed regulations that will introduce a new income disregard which will ensure farmers who avail of Agri-Environmental Schemes will not see their social welfare payments impacted. As a result of these changes, an income disregard will now be applied to the department’s Farm Assist, Jobseeker’s Allowance and State (Non-Contributory) Pensions.

Introducing an income disregard under these schemes will incentivise more farmers to participate in them, in line with the Government’s climate change objectives. Grants under these agricultural schemes benefit from the maximum disregard of €2,450, with the remaining balance assessed at 50%.

Anthony Healy spends his RSS time working in Macroom Golf Course where the greens are kept in superb condition.

The second announcement was the removal of the six-year time limit for all participants on the Rural Social Scheme with immediate effect, this rule was introduced in 2017 and means that participants whose contracts were due to finish on or after 1st February 2023, can have their contracts extended to the 31st of March and annually thereafter similar to

Community care for pre-school and after-school groups, Environmental maintenance work such as Tidy Towns projects, Helping non-profit cultural and heritage centres and opportunities for you to learn new skills by accessing our in-house training.

There will be opportunities to assist with projects in your local community and you will become a valuable member of the team, which has great camaraderie.

Ukrainian Response Supervisors and participants like the rest of the team in IRD Duhallow stepped up when assistance was required with Ukrainian refugees arriving to the Duhallow region. Our participants assisted with erecting a marquee to become the hub for donations due to the generosity of people and the extent of the donations we received. We then assisted with the sorting of clothes by gender, age, size etc. It is very heartening to see people wanting to help in any way they can.

Health and Safety is essential to all of our work. Participants Margaret Murphy, Supervisor Colm O’Connor, John O’Flynn and Mary O’Connell completed Decision Driving Training, a requirement for those driving for the company.

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Rural Social Scheme throughout Duhallow the spirit of volunteerism and the ongoing development of villages and towns. We very much embrace the opportunity to support these projects, if you would like assistance, please contact us by email outlining the work needed.

Left: RSS participant Bridget Keating helped organise donations at the Ukrainian Donation hub in JOK Institute Newmarket. Right: Supervisor Colm O’Connor and John O’Flynn delivered donations to the Ukrainians in Millstreet and Banteer.

Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) With the support of IRD Duhallow, Kiskeam Development Association secured ORIS funding to expand the phase two of the Kiskeam Loopwalk.

Phase one previously received funding in 2021 to develop a 1.1 kilometre walkway through an existing forest plantation and link it with the existing walkways in Kiskeam Village. This year they carried out additional works to the existing walking trail including, biodiversity planting, picnic areas, signage, way markers and map boards and we also developed 800 metres of additional walking routes along the Kiskeam Walking Trail.

Participant John Holmes completed hoist training recently which will ensure our scheme can complete work out in the community. John also assisted in the works completed for our newest social enterprise ReLove Paint.

This new walking route required clearing to be completed with machinery as well as stone to be laid along the path. At the highest point of the trail a ‘Bird Hide’ was erected. This will allow visitors to have an interrupted viewing station from which to observe wildlife. A pedestrian wooden bridge was erected over a narrow stream to link back the new and existing route.

The work of IRD Duhallow is very much towards the betterment of communities which also encompasses ensuring one of the most important groups of our society, the elderly can continue to live independently in their own surroundings, and this is attained through receiving support from participants working on our social enterprises Duhallow Community Laundry, Duhallow Furniture Revamp, Duhallow Community Food Services and the Warmer Homes Scheme.

The addition of new paths will make options of almost 6km of walking routes around the Kiskeam Walking Trail.

Community Work

Fleet Management RSS Supervisor Colm O Connor looks after the fleet of vehicles for IRD Duhallow and Duhallow Community Food Services. This job entails overseeing that all vehicles are compliant with legal requirements, along with making sure a tight monitoring and full-service schedule is maintained to get the maximum efficiency from the fleet while remaining in full compliance with RSA guidelines.

We’re very lucky to have a very talented team of participants who completed the work on the ORIS funded Walk in Kiskeam. This included the construction of a pedestrian bridge over a watercourse.

Retirements Last year one of our original participants who joined in 2004 Gerard O’Sullivan retired, we also said farewell to Eileen O’Riordan and Christopher Sheehan, we would like to thank them for their hard work and wish them all the very best for the future.

The wide variety of work participants undertake throughout Duhallow contributes to enhance the lives and surroundings of all our dwellers, this was very much evident throughout COVID-19 when people were restricted to their surroundings and got familiar with all the wonderful walks and amenities that we provide maintenance for. It is evident

Left: Denis Murphy busy at work with his colleagues’ power washing the community centre in Kilbrin. Right: Participation on RSS ensures Denis can continue to farm at home while completing community work part time on the schemes.

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Testimony – Denis Murphy I joined the RSS Scheme in IRD Duhallow over 10 years ago, I am a single farmer living in a rural part of Duhallow between Newmarket and Rockchapel. I work mainly in various communities around Duhallow doing power washing, painting, and general maintenance. I enjoy my work but most of all I enjoy coming in and meeting my friends and colleagues that I work with every day. I also get great support from the supervisors who help me with anything I need.

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Tús individual circumstances. Class A PRSI contributions will be paid for all participants. Those earning more than €352 a week will pay a PRSI contribution. Participants on the Tús scheme are exempt from the Universal Social Charge.

Qualifying for Tús and Self Referrals To qualify for Tús or to ‘self-refer’ a person must have been continuously unemployed for at least 12 months and ‘signing’ on and in receipt of a Jobseekers payment for Department of Social Protection (DSP). Persons are also considered eligible if they had a break of up to, but not exceeding 30 Ivan O’Connor learning new stonework days in the Jobseekers Allowance skills while constructing a new stone wall in Cullen. record in the last 12 months. For anyone who wishes to self-refer to Tús, they must meet the minimum qualifying criteria and there is a straight forward application process. Those interested should contact their local Case Officer in their Social Welfare branch office to apply. The Department of Social Protection also randomly select those in receipt of Jobseekers to join the Tús scheme.

The late Denis Collins RIP with fellow participant Barry O’Shea power washing the school wall in Kilbrin. Denis was part of our community and he is greatly missed.

The Tús initiative is a community work placement scheme providing short-term working opportunities for unemployed people while simultaneously benefitting the community. Tús is implemented by IRD Duhallow for the Department of Social Protection (DSP), which has overall responsibility for the scheme.

What kind of work is involved?

Participants have taken part in a wide range of projects over the past year including: environmental projects, caring services (childcare, care of older people), general community services, heritage and cultural projects, educational services, Meals on Wheels, insulating houses, Joseph Cronin showcases his recent work community care work, village to scheme supervisor Nuala Riordan and John Lyons secretary of Macroom Tidy renewal/maintenance, caretaking Towns. community buildings, community charity shops, maintenance of the Pitch and Putt, Furniture Revamp and Relove Paint, maintenance of community and sporting facilities, community laundry, administration, development of the agricultural museum and production of the Discover Duhallow magazine.

Tús aims to break the cycle of unemployment by preparing participants to return to the labour market. Being employed gives participants a sense of self-worth and builds confidence. It also gives a great sense of social inclusion, identity and status while affording opportunities for development and increased confidence.

The Benefits of the Scheme The work carried out on the Tús scheme gives a great sense of selfworth as it is all community-based.

Participants really feel that they have carried out ‘good work’ during their time on the scheme, and through their role, they have helped to make Duhallow a better place to live.

Trevor Kelleher assisting in the construction of a footpath in Newmarket.

Through the programme, participants work for 19.5 hours per week in a variety of different community placements which lasts 12 months. They receive the same statutory (pro rata) annual leave (10.5 days = 4 weeks) and public holiday entitlement as other employees. On joining Tús, people can continue to retain their medical card, fuel allowance or rent allowance if they were in receipt of these prior to joining the scheme. The allowances are linked to the current social welfare payment with a top up of €22.50, with the exception of under 26’s, as all single rates are €230.50 regardless of age. Additional payments for qualified adults and children will be paid where relevant as per the individual’s social welfare payment. Persons in receipt of Disability Allowance, Invalidity Pension or the Blind Persons Pension (BPP) are now eligible for Tús.

A team of Tús and RSS participants erected a Marquee for the Dawn Mass at the Source of the Blackwater.

Caleb O’Connor working on the Discover Duhallow magazine. Caleb works with all contributors and printers to ensure the magazine is produced every fortnight.

For many the real benefit of the scheme is through the confidence gained from socialising and working with people. This is coupled with the fact that people must now manage their time and enter a workplace routine where they must physically attend work and be accountable for the jobs undertaken. Through this they acquire many ‘soft skills’ such as time management, organisation, workplace autonomy, a sense of responsibility, communication skills and team work. IRD Duhallow can also provide the individual with a reference for the time spent on the scheme, which is vital for many people who may have been unemployed for many years or who might not have had a previous employer.

Integrated Supports Tús schemes are ideally located within Local Development Companies as the participants can benefit from the integrated approach taken to community supports. Under the guidance of the scheme supervisor, participants can be seamlessly linked with other supports in IRD

The Tús payment is taxable but the amount payable depends on

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Tús course. These courses are seen as essential by many employers and are valuable assets on any C.V. Tús participants are also offered other upskilling opportunities through the suite of training programmes offered across the wide range of initiatives delivered by IRD Duhallow.

Amarachi Ogbuji is completing her placement in Duhallow Community Food Services where she has learnt many new baking techniques.

Scenes at Shrone Lake which is part of the Duhallow Way. Tús participants strimmed and hedged the roadway leading up to the Shrone Lake. This scenic valley is enjoyed by walkers and forms part of the Clonkeen leg of the Duhallow Way.

Duhallow or be referred to other agencies as required. The SICAP funded Job Centre provides participants with support to create or update their C.V. as well as offering interview preparation. Through the Job Centre and the Skillnet programme we have developed many links with employers and have a strong track record of supporting participants to acquire full time employment. Where full time employment may not yet be an option, participants can continue to progress through other schemes such CE or CSP.

Tús – Complementing other Employment Opportunities A participant of the Tús programme can work part-time as long as they continue to undertake their Tús placement. IRD Duhallow has a number of instances where through the confidence building and skills acquired as part of the Tús programme, people have gone on to attain additional employment outside of their Tús placement. However, anyone who acquires a full time position is required to resign immediately from the Tús scheme.

Learning New Skills The Duhallow Tús programme places a keen emphasis on upskilling. Tús supervisor Don Murphy is a master stonemason and he imparts his expertise and knowledge to participants of the scheme. One such project was in Cullen, where participants constructed an 80m long stone wall on the south side of the village. This job involved learning how to lay sand stone 0.9mt high with a mortar joint and it was then finished with a soldier course.

Tús participant Sonia Tobin with Terry Kelleher who manages the Shopeen in Macroom. This shop is run voluntarily and raises funds for the adjacent Sullane Haven – who provides sheltered housing, meals on wheels and numerous other services.

Carla Ankiah is one of the many success stories from Tús. Since completing her placement with IRD Duhallow, Carla has progressed in her career to now be the Chief Strategy and Impact Officer for Autism Assisted Dogs Ireland and is a regular contributor to charities forums and a wellregarded public speaker at events.

As a standard, all participants undergo manual handling training, with most going on to complete a Safe Pass

Testimony – Paul Kennedy After being unemployed I started on Tús in IRD Duhallow in 2016. My placement was in the Pitch and Putt maintaining the greens and fairways. Eventually I went onto maintaining the entire course. The Paul Kennedy Head Greenkeeper at the work is quite extensive involving: Newmarket Pitch and Putt. hollow-tinning, pencil tinning, feeding and fertilising wetting agents, pesticides, fungicides and top-dressing, scarifying and seeding the greens, repairing and changing the holes.

When my Tús placement finished, I was keen to continue working and progress further, so I started on CE. I trained up in Advanced Green keeping which has resulted in me becoming the Head Greenkeeper in the Newmarket Pitch and Putt. Little did I realise when I started on Tús that I would progress to this position.

Donal O’Brien has honed his IT skills through his placement in IRD Duhallow.

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Revamp IRD Duhallow, with the assistance of the Community Service Programme, operates Duhallow Furniture Revamp since January 2016. Duhallow Revamp provides a range of in-demand services to the community and in particular to disadvantaged individuals and groups in Duhallow. In addition to the wide offering of good quality second-hand furniture for sale, Duhallow REVAMP provides a repair, restoration and re-upholstery service. A discount is also made available in an effort to further assist and entice those in receipt of social welfare, low-income households and students. A detailed workflow plan is in place to ensure that there is as little waste as possible and that project goals and priorities are met on time Revamp staff, Tony Palmer, Jessica Baron, and Ann and within budget.

O’Connor organised a Coffee Morning for Pieta House.

waste management among businesses, organizations, community groups and initiatives in Ireland.

This Award not only highlights the work done by IRD Duhallow Furniture Revamp but also the people of the IRD Duhallow region who are responsible for the success of the Social enterprise in their support of the enterprise through their purchases, donations and use of our upholstery services.

NEW PROJECT: Relove paint Cork City Council and Cork County Council have received funding from the EPA’s Local Authority Prevention Network (LAPN) programme for this paint recycling scheme, which will see unused water-based paints in Civic Amenity Sites diverted towards social enterprises.

The Social Enterprise has served over 5,600 customers to date and played a significant role in the circular economy in Duhallow.

Duhallow Furniture Revamp is one of three social enterprises embarking in this new venture with RELOVE PAINT, a quality remixed paint made in Cork.

Our new display in the Revamp Shop showcasing our recycled paint.

Commitment to the Environment With over 210 tons of furniture diverted from landfills to date, and over 185 tons redistributed back into Before and after of a reupholstered Queen the community through sales and Anne chair. refurbishment, Duhallow REVAMP is actively participating in a greener local environment. One of the principal aims of Duhallow REVAMP is to repair furniture items with as little waste as possible and with a strict adherence to using a minimum of 90% reuse goods and materials in its overall operations. To date, the average use of new material is only 3% only, well below our guidelines. REVAMP also provide a free collection service, thereby contributing to a reduction in fly tipping, and providing a great incentive for everyone to play his or her part in creating a cleaner environment.

The procedure starts with Revamp collecting used water-based paints from our local civic amenity sites. We would like to thank site manager Thomas O Shea and staff of Cork County Council in the Kanturk and Millstreet in Civic Amenity Centre’s for all there assistance during the setting up process.

The paints are brought to our new paint workshop where a mixing process takes place. A training on the mixing process was given to Revamp’s staff by The Rediscovery Centre in Dublin, an enterprise with extensive experience in the field. The paint will be put in new 5 Litre containers and available for sale in the Revamp’s shop.

Continuous training and upskilling opportunities It is an important part of REVAMP’s operation to provide training through the Skillnets programme. These include essential training in health and safety, First Aid, manual handling to name a few. It is also an important aim of REVAMP to offer upskilling opportunities to staff and participants and through the Social Enterprise Regeneration Programme, the efforts were focused on providing training in the field of Digital innovation such as social media, Digital marketing and content creation.

PAKMAN Awards

We also offer ongoing training in upholstery and woodwork to eligible participants on Tús and CE schemes and welcome self-referrals from people interested to learn these useful and fulfilling crafts.

IRD Duhallow Staff Attending the Pakman Awards, Colm Crowley, Maggie O’Callaghan, Colm O’Connor, Jessica Baron, Marie Fleming, Don Murphy.

We were delighted to receive the National award for ‘Community Recycling initiative of the year’ at the annual Pakman awards, held in Dublin on last October.

Work Placement from the STRIVE programme Participant Jamie O Donoghue.

The Pakman Awards, powered by Repak are the national environmental and sustainability awards that recognize excellence in recycling and

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Staff Member Krzysztof Lichorobiec sanding a chair, for varnishing.

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Kickstart work experience opportunities is important in terms of matching people with their existing skillsets and their aspirations for their preferred career path. We are fortunate to have other available social enterprise employment opportunities through IRD Duhallow. We can therefore match people according to their DCFS Staff on kitchen duties preferences where possible. This reinforces the huge benefits in rooting such a programme with a local development company.

Duhallow Revamp has been identified as a suitable placement environment for the Kickstart Programme

The provision of support for new employees and development of care plans The IRD Duhallow Kickstart Project aims to support ex-offenders during the transition from prison life back to mainstream employment. The plans we incorporate for the provision of job-search assistance and training options, not designed solely to address labour market issues of those who are especially vulnerable to reoffending, but also informed by Wall insulation being carried out by our actions to motivate offenders to avoid Warmer homes staff falling back into the same pattern of behaviours. A wraparound technique will underpin the approach and our project will act as a gateway for participants and their families by improving their access to numerous supports/services through the integrated suite of programmes operated within IRD Duhallow company structures. It is envisaged that engagement in community life will empower these people to access other locally available services such as counselling, MABS, Alcoholic and Narcotic support groups etc. Our Project will support people who may be dealing with the impact of trauma including, adverse childhood experiences, or a psychiatric disorder as well as experiencing problems as a result of alcohol and/or drug use. All available supports including health & well-being, educational, labour market training and occupational specific skills, career advice and guidance support will be outlined and explained in a supportive manner to assist individuals in their transition from prison life.

Kickstart is a programme supported by Dormant accounts through the department of Justice. It aims to provide work opportunities to people with a criminal conviction in our case living in a rural area. It supports them and gives them an opportunity to re-engage into their communities, activate them for entry or re-entry into the labour market and thus reduce the incidence of reoffending. People are offered placements through RSS/Tus/CE, where they work long side all other IRD Duhallow staff, fully integrating them in the work place.

IRD Duhallow Revamp has been successful in it’s second application for round three of the Kickstart programme, which started in May and runs for fifteen months, our previous programme was completed in December 2020. This follows from a successful round two funding which was originally approved in 2020 and also ran for fifteen month, although recruitment was somewhat hampered due to the Covid Upholstery job being done by Revamp staff pandemic, the programme successfully completed and was of huge benefit both to IRD Duhallow and the service users Project Coordination

Green keeping on our Pitch & Putt Coarse

We have employed a dedicated Coordinator for Duhallow REVAMP through Kickstart. They will help to fully realise the potential of expanding work placements for those with criminal convictions in a rural area and also work in forming plans and putting supports in place for all needs of kickstart participants and in line with the Working For Change Strategy 2021 -2023.

Social connections will be encouraged including social / recreational / sporting / activities and opportunities as well as taster opportunities within their own communities through the various clubs and organisations. This holistic Staff working in our Community Laundry approach adopted by IRD Duhallow will ensure that the individual are supported in every way possible to obtain and sustain real employment, and break the cycle of offending to ensure a better life for themselves and their families. Participation in community activities can improve social connectedness and involvement in community life, for those with a history of offending and their families.

Both of which are key to empowering people to participate as well as increasing community & civic engagement, rural isolation and improving mental health & well-being.

IRD Duhallow is in the unique position that it can offer such a diverse range of opportunities and experience in the work environment and offers positions in • Delivery & Collection REVAMP Drivers • REVAMP Craft & Woodwork Operative and Upholstery & Restoration Operative • Greenkeeper with Duhallow Pitch and Putt • Catering Assistant with Duhallow Community Food Services • Community Laundry Operative • Warmer Homes Operative

IRD Duhallow committed to all in our Community As our project now enters its next phase, we would like to thank the people who have advised and helped us on our way with the probation services, through Maria Walsh, Training and Employment officer and Area TL, along with Alice Walsh the Social Enterprise Liaison with IASIO, who is based in the Probation Service Headquarters in Smithfield, Dublin.

We learned from the previous Kickstart Project that having a variety of

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Afterschools IRD Duhallow Newmarket Afterschools has been in operation for over 17 years. Children are collected daily from both Newmarket Boys and Girls National Schools by bus, which is facilitated by Local Link. Children receive a nourishing meal, provided

by Duhallow Community Food Services, and one-to-one support and supervision with homework. Once homework is finished children enjoy a Rachel O Callaghan, Afterschool’s range of child led activities; art, Practitioner, assisting Alex Healy and Batt baking, games and fun, walks around O Callaghan with their homework. the ground of the James O Keeffe, Pitch and Putt, STEM activities, mindfulness, yoga; or they may choose unstructured free play after a structured day in school.

Every year the Afterschools participates in National Spring Clean Day an anti-litter campaign that takes place in April.

We were delighted to participate in the Gaisce Bulbs For Bees campaign this year. We received a pack of bulbs from IRD Duhallow. The children learned how the pollinator friendly bulbs we planted in October will flower in spring and will provide the hard working bees with some sweet, sugary, carbohydrate-rich nectar, which they depend on for energy and pollen. They thoroughly enjoyed getting stuck in to the planting and are excited to see what will flower next year. They planted Grape Hyacinth and Crocus.

Not only does the Afterschools provide care for working families but families also send their children for the homework support, as they do not have the provisions for online learning at home, they themselves may struggle with literacy, numeracy, or they may be facing social issues. The Afterschools is a safe, inclusive and fun Rachel and Faye enjoying a baking environment that supports children activity; making and decorating chocolate discs. to develop socially, emotionally and educationally according to their interests and abilities. We have invested in a number of tablets to facilitate online homework and learning.

Animal Magic visiting the Afterschools as part of the LEADER funded Barn Owl Project.

As part of a LEADER funded Barn Owl Project the children of the Aftserschools learned about the cultural and historical significance of Barn Owls, the importance of conservation and to appreciate wildlife. Animal Magic also visited and the children got to see and hold Barn Owls.

Camps The Afterschools runs camps during mid-term; the Spooktacular Halloween Camp and the Egg-citing Easter Camp. This year, as part of the LEADER funded Barn Owl Project, staff from IRD Duhallow facilitated an information session Barn Owls and Animal Magic visited the afterschools during the Halloween Camp.

Throughout the summer we run a number of camps with a variety of themes; these include Little Chefs and Artists, Nature Detectives and Whizz Kids.

Little Chefs and Artists children enjoy baking and cooking things from start to finish and a variety of arts and STEM Activities are always a firm favouritehere the children are making slime. crafts. During Nature Detectives, we spend majority of the day outside exploring and appreciating our natural surroundings. Whizz Kids is all about science experiments, computers and literacy with a Literacy teacher facilitating literacy games and activities and Touch Type Read Spell (TTRS) while in the computer lab; these activities are especially beneficial for children with dyslexia or reading difficulties. Camps are open to all children, not just those enrolled in the Afterschools.

The children of the Afterschool’s were delighted to feature in Sheila Fitzgerald’s Christmas Single, which aired on Sky and was played over the local radio stations.

September 2021 saw the Afterschools expand its service to meet the needs of local families and is now operating a Breakfast Club from 7am Monday-Friday. Children can relax in our sensory/chillax room, participate in activities and games and are provided with a variety of breakfast options before being dropped to school.

Typical Daily Schedule The Breakfast Club and Afterschools is an essential service for parents in Newmarket and surrounding regions who otherwise would be excluded from participation in work or training due to a lack of childcare.

2.00 Junior and Senior Infants are picked up by bus or dropped off by parents.

2.10 Homework and Play 3.00 1st – 6th class are picked up by bus or dropped off by parents 3.15 Dinner is served (We can cater for special dietary needs) 3.40 Homework time 4.30 Activities/Free Play 6.00 Closing Time

Environmental Activities IRD Duhallow Newmarket Afterschools was the first childcare facility to receive a green flag in Ireland in 2009. We are now working towards our 6th Flag for the Theme Global Citizenship- Energy. This maintenance theme allows us to revise the Energy theme we previously completed, while looking at issues surrounding energy on a global scale.

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Duhallow Community Laundry Duhallow Community Laundry has been operating since 2014. Set up to meet the needs as identified by our Saoi and Carers Networks, we have an established client base which is increasing all the time.

Pat O’Neill utilises our delivery service every week, and enjoys the humour Anita brings with her to the role. For many service users, meeting people is just as important as the service itself.

audit fees specifically for 2021. This was most welcome as funding towards operational costs had been discontinued by the government since 2009.

Last year our application for National Lottery Funding of €5,000 was successful, this money was used to purchase two professional Ironing Boards, with stream generator, Active Supervisor Anita Castle, ensures the high Ironing board with suction and standard of the service is maintained. As inflation function. These will be a part of her duties, she carries out regular great addition to the service, and we quality control checks across all our processes. would like to express our gratitude to the HSE for this funding and to the CSP for their support.

The target of the service includes the Elderly, Lone Parents, Carers, recipients of Family Income Supplement, the Unemployed, recipients of Disability, recipients of Farm Assist, and participants from our schemes such as Tús, Rural Social Scheme and Community Employment.

It continues to be our mission to provide a top-quality affordable service.

The Social Economy model, which provides affordable services to people in necessitate circumstances, has never been more needed than it is today, with the cost of living soaring. With an influx of Ukrainian refugees to Duhallow, our service has been working with the centres in Banteer and Millstreet as well as individuals staying in private accommodation.

Governance The Social Economy Working Group under the guidance of the Chair Mary Wallace oversee the objectives of this social enterprise and were a great support in ensuring we stayed operational during COVID-19 whilst also keeping in constant contact with our clients and assisting them with any needs such as delivering prescriptions and groceries. The working group are now prioritising the huge community response to the

The fantastic Duhallow Community Laundry Team who consist of Joan, Anita, Christine and Margaret who are all committed to delivering a top-class laundry service with great customer care.

Staffing Anita Castle leads our team in Duhallow Community Laundry with Margaret Murphy, Joan Sheehan and Christine Sheehan ensuring the service provided is second to none. Without the support of the Community Services Programme, Rural Social Scheme, Tus, and CE activation schemes who all support the staffing of this service, it would be unsustainable.

Any staff that join from schemes gain excellent on the job skills whilst working in Duhallow Community Laundry such as scheduling, cash reconciliation, stock taking and customer care to name but a few.

Duhallow community laundry falls under the umbrella of IRD Duhallow, and thus can avail of plenty additional supports when required.

This ensures community enterprises like ours can avail of advice, mentoring and guidance when needed.

Mary Wallace Chairperson of the Social Economy Working Group has been guiding the laundry as well as our other social enterprises throughout COVID 19 pandemic.

Ukrainian crisis in any way we can.

The working group are very cognisant of the fact that investment and upgrading of equipment is necessary and with the substantial increase in overheads and materials the price list was reviewed, and it was deemed necessary to increase price points to safeguard the enterprise.

Dan Sheahan calls to our accessible laundry premises in the James O Keeffe weekly. Our staff are always on hand to meet people at their cars or provide a delivery to their homes.

Testimony – Maura O’Connor The ladies in Duhallow Community Laundry look after me so well collecting my laundry every week, it’s a good feeling to know I have clean clothes in the wardrobe at all times and also to open the hot press and smell the fresh smell of the crisp sheets, the ironed pillow cases and the soft towels. Thank you IRD Duhallow, well done.

Funding POBAL, on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development under the Community Services Programme (CSP) provides funding towards staffing of one manager and two full time equivalents.

The CSP aims to tackle disadvantage by providing a co-funding contribution towards the cost of employment.

We welcomed the good news last year when Mr. Joe O Brien TD, Minister of State, announced that Community Services Programmes would receive operational funding towards costs for light & heat, insurance and

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Duhallow Community Food Services

Linda O Connor, Catering Supervisor

In 2021 Linda O'Connor was appointed as Catering Supervisor of Duhallow Community Food Services.

Linda is responsible for the day-to-day running of the business. She holds a higher certificate in Arts & Culinary Arts, a diploma in in Professional Cookery along with a QQI level 6 in supervisory management. Linda has been in the catering industry for more than 16 years and brings a wealth of knowledge from working in both the public, private and healthcare sector.

DCFS Staff: Back. Neily O Flynn (Transport Supervisor) Mary O Connell (School Meal Supervisor) Sarah Cronin, John Daly, Charlene Alvis, Vincent O Sullivan, Tom Healy, Julie Messmer, Paul O Connor and Kathleen O Connor. Front. Ruth O Sullivan, Denise O Mahony (Bakery Supervisor) Olive Casey (Meals Co-Ordinator) Linda O Connor (Catering Supervisor), Marina Pavola, Amarachi Ogbuji.

Linda together with a team of supervisors (Administration; Olive Casey, Transport and Distribution; Neily O Flynn, Kitchen; Noreen Relihan, School Catering; Mary O Connell, Restaurant; Mark Sugrue, Bakery; Denise O Mahony) are committed to the philosophy and beliefs of DCFS which are to provide a quality product and exceptional service to all customers and to ensure this is never compromised.

While DCFS receives staffing funding from CSP and a smaller grant from the HSE there is still is large shortfall to make up. Finances have become increasingly difficult with rising costs, and this puts the service under additional financial pressure.

Rural Meals Service In 2021 DCFS produced and delivered 38,000 meals to senior citizens and those not in a position to cook for themselves throughout the Duhallow region.

Neily O Flynn (Transport Supervisor) and Olive Casey (Meals on Wheels Food CoOrdinator) organising routes for meal deliveries.

DCFS staff Charlene Drumm, Mark Sugrue and Marguerite O’ Connor with IRD Duhallow Board Member Geraldine O’Leary & staff member Helen O’Sullivan at the Millstreet Intercultural Festival held in the town park where DCFS catered for the crowd with our new mobile BBQ.

Our belief is, and evidence has shown that the rural meals service is a critical component in improving older people’s nutritional status, health, and quality of life. It also

provides a continuum of care services that enables older people to remain living in the community or to return to their own homes after hospitalisation.

About Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) In operation since 1994, DCFS has been providing an essential service to the elderly population of the region.

Our primary aim to meet the needs of the elderly through the provision of a hot meals service at an affordable price, which necessitated us engaging in a wide mix of commercial activity Bakery Supervisor Denise O’ Mahony, with such as its restaurant and outside Ruth O Sullivan, and Marina Pavlova preparing desserts for our cake display in catering services, in order to subvent the restaurant. the demand deficiencies of our core business.

The service is a vital source of social contact and connectivity for many older people who are vulnerable to social exclusion and social isolation.

Aiden Creedon, Paul O Connor, Pat Murphy, Tom Healy, Vincent O Sullivan, Julie Messmer and Neily O Flynn (Transport Supervisor) drivers getting ready for delivery runs to deliver meals to the elderly.

The meals-on-wheels service caters for the nutritional requirements of older people who may be considered among the most vulnerable of the community-dwelling population. It is critical, therefore, that the service provided is of the highest quality.

Tom Healy delivering a meal to Joan O Sullivan, Glantane.

Our mission is to tackle rural isolation by providing a hot, nutritious, food delivery service to vulnerable people in the greater Duhallow area.

Meals on wheels services are available Monday to Friday with an option of chilled meals to cover the weekend and bank holiday periods. Special diets are also catered for.

Clients can also avail of a senior’s hot meal service from our DCFS

Joan Murphy and Marie Forrest enjoying a cuppa in the restaurant at DCFS. The restaurant is a great meeting spot for seniors to meet and socialise as well as availing of affordable meals.

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Duhallow Community Food Services restaurant – dine in or take away.

Our senior’s menu is available for €8.00 for a dinner and dessert each weekday from 12.30pm -2.00pm with our a la carte menu available all day. We offer indoor and outdoor dining spaces and cater for all types of dietary requests.

Rural Meals Service- Covid 19 Supports When government measures were introduced to curb the spread of Covid 19 in March 2020 the demand for meals increased dramatically.

For several months in 2020 & 2021 the entire DCFS facility was devoted to the production of meals for delivery to the elderly. The ability to adapt to the needs of the customer was critical at the time and the design of the building allowed for staff to work at safe distances from each other to observe social distancing rules, providing a safe environment for the team.

DCFS restaurant is a lovely comfortable venue to enjoy a meal in the company of friends and represents excellent value.

Outside Catering & Celebration Cakes Outside catering is another specialty of DCFS and is ideal for special occasions. Catering is available for Birthdays, Confirmations, Communions, Funerals, or any other occasion. All our delicious food is freshly prepared in house, using the finest of ingredients. A full brochure is available detailing savoury and sweet options, cakes and desserts.

Now more than ever the role of the meals on wheels service is extremely important in society to ensure our most vulnerable are well looked after.

It was always appreciated that this service is a vital role of social contact and connectivity for many older people to avoid social inclusion and social isolation, again over this time, this need was magnified. Our drivers, following all health protocol, were sure to have a kind word with clients every day.

Our celebration cakes and treats are ever popular for all types of events, from office celebrations, birthdays and family occasions, customers can choose from Fresh Cream, Buttercream or Biscuit cake filling with a personalised message.

Restaurant & Bakery

Our outside catering BBQ service which includes the hire of our BBQ Grill is a popular choice during the summer season, this includes meats, salads, bbq grill, staff to prepare, cook and serve you.

Christmas and Easter times are very special at DCFS, the talented bakery team produce speciality seasonal cakes and buns such as Christmas Cakes, Plum Puddings, Mince Pies and Easter Treat Boxes for these special seasons.

Catering for Educational and Childcare Settings

Catering Supervisor Linda O Connor with Restaurant Supervisor Mark Sugrue make sure the cake display has a variety of sweet treats available daily.

Our Restaurant/ Deli on site is open daily, Monday to Saturday serving a delicious selection of food to eat in or takeaway.

The restaurant affords many elderly people the opportunity to have their meals on site rather than delivered to home and many tend to avail of other services at the JOK complex, including the laundry service.

Freshly baked scones, bread, tarts, cakes, and buns are available every day as well as home cooked meats and salads. Barista coffee, hot lunch specials and hot or cold sandwiches are available daily and DCFS is the perfect place to meet a friend or enjoy lunch with colleagues.

This past year, DCFS has provided school canteen and lunch services to Secondary Schools in Buttevant, Colaiste Treasa and Scoil Mhuire Kanturk.

DCFS caters for the students, staff, and young children in a variety of settings in the local area; Colaiste Treasa in Kanturk, Scoil Mhuire in Kanturk, and Colaiste Pobail Naomh Mhuire in Buttevant, the Newmarket afterschool service and Banteer Childcare facility.

Healthy eating is a key focus in these settings, our belief is that health and fresh food helps children with concentration, performance and in developing health eating habits.

We prepare all the food each morning only using the freshest ingredients.

We work closely with each setting to ensure that we meet the needs of the children, the staff, and the teachers.

Governance and Staffing DCFS is managed by a board of 18 voluntary directors who meet once a month to oversee the operations of the company. They help DCFS to move forward as an organisation seamlessly and offer their time and expertise to ensure the success of the organisation.

DCFS caters for a large range of outside catering events. Orders can be delivered or picked up at our restaurant in Newmarket. Noreen Kelly is pictured picking up her order from Linda O’Connor.

Full traditional afternoon tea is a delicious speciality served from 2.30pm daily, (booking essential). This is also available to take away and enjoy at home.

Our staff make us what we are, we are very fortunate to have a long serving and hard-working team to whom we are very grateful.

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Warmer Homes Initiative Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme (BEWHS) Our Warmer Homes Scheme has been in operation for 16 years and has to date insulated over 4,300 houses across Cork City and County, South Limerick, and all of Kerry.

Installer Jakub Nowacki loading attic insulation for the next job. Jakub was placed with our Warmer Homes team while a participant on IRD Duhallow’s CE Scheme. Following the completion of his placement on CE, Jakub secured full time employment with IRD Duhallow’s Warmer Homes Scheme

IRD Duhallow is a registered installer of attic, cavity wall and internal dry lining insulation measures under the Kingspan & Enprova Retrofit Home Incentive Scheme. In February 2022, SEAI announced vastly increased grant amounts to replace the maximum grant of €850 that was James Kelleher installing attic insulation under the Better Energy Warmer Homes previously available. The grant for a Scheme. detached house increased to €3,250, semi-detached €2,550 and €2,050 for a mid-terrace house. A BER (Building Energy Rating) Certificate is generated for each completed house by an independent assessor. In 2021, 35 houses received funding for insulation works through this scheme.

Funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and Pobal through the Community Services Programme SEAI has recently added deeper retrofit works such as internal dry-lining, external wall insulation, heating upgrades, demand control ventilation and window replacement to the BEWHS. IRD Duhallow has a Service Level Agreement with Northside Community Enterprises through SE Systems in Cork to deliver these additional measures to our customers.

Employment The Warmer Homes Scheme is staffed through the Community Services Programme (CSP) which contributes towards the employment of a coordinator and 5 full time staff. The scheme is further supported through a number of labour schemes including RSS, CE and the TUS Schemes all of which supply participants to work with teams insulating attics and cavity walls.

Home Energy Upgrade Grants Continuous Training & Quality Assurance Training is an essential part of our service where Warmer Homes staff are kept up to date on industry standards. These include Manual Handling, Working at Heights training, Abrasive Wheel training, Mobile Tower Scaffold training and Safe Pass. Our cavity wall teams have received training from Envirobead Insulation on surveying and insulation and are certified with the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI).

Cork City Council Works In 2021, IRD Duhallow in partnership with Cork City Council delivered works under the Housing Adaptations, Mobility Aid and Housing Aid for Elderly grants for Cork City Council applicants. The grants funded up to a maximum of 95% of the cost of works. Works funded through these grants include access ramps, grab rails, bathroom facilities like an accessible shower or a downstairs toilet, stair lift and space for wheelchair access. Seven houses received works through this scheme in 2021

Before and after photo of access ramp and rail installed in a house in Glanmire by IRD Duhallow through grant aid from Cork City Council under the Housing Aid for the Elderly.

In the second half of 2021, IRD Duhallow teamed up with Ashgrove Renewables in Kanturk who provide Home Energy Upgrades for homes which requires 3 or more upgrade measures.

WHS Vehicle Donation The Warmer Homes Scheme project in West Cork Development Partnership (WCDP) ceased operations in 2021. Their staff were funded

by Pobal under the CSP programme, and they had 2 vans and a compressor funded through the Dormant Accounts Fund. The vans and compressor were donated to IRD Duhallow with Pobal’s agreement. One van is used by our attic crew to replace their 16 years old van. The second van is used by our community care crew in the delivery of housing adaptations under the grant scheme.

Most homeowners, once eligible, opt for insulation (attic and/or cavity) upgrade, heat pump and solar PV installation. This guarantees that the house will reach the minimum building energy rating of B2 required to be eligible for SEAI grants. Ashgrove install the heat pumps and Solar PV while IRD Duhallow install the attic and cavity wall insulation. In total, 24 houses received works through this scheme in 2021.

Enprova & Kingspan Retrofit Home Incentive Scheme

IRD Duhallow Warmer Homes Scheme crews installing cavity wall insulation and ventilation in a property in North Cork recently

WHS installers Tom Cambridge and Tade Roche busy at work

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT

2021 - 2022

South Eastern Duhallow Communities

IRD Duhallow Representatives

Aubane Banteer Bweeng Derrinagree Donoughmore & Stuake Firmount Kilcorney Laharn Lyre Millstreet Nadd New Tipperary Rathcoole

John Kelleher & Noreen Kelleher Denis Withers & John Kirwan Jeanette O'Connell & Sean Kelly Tom Meaney & Andrias O'Sullivan Marie Wallace & Monica Kennedy Rachel Kelleher & Peter Cafferkey Seamus Curtin & Dan Burke Eileen Forde & Sheila Crowley Billy Murphy & Richard Murphy Noel Buckley & Denis Hickey Mary Leahy & Paudie O'Shea Donnache O'Donovan & Bryan Byrne Dan Joe O'Keeffe & Mary Keller Sexton

Wastern Duhallow Communities

IRD Duhallow Representatives

Ballinahulla Ballydaly Ballydesmond Boherbue Cullen Foilogohig Glash Gneeveguilla Kiskeam Knockaclarig Knocknaboul Knocknagree Meelin Rathmore Rockchapel Shrone Taur Tureencahill

Liam Doody & Betty Collins Richie O'Connor & John McCarthy Siobhan Moynihan & Dan O'Connor Margaret Murphy & Marie Casey Derry Morley & Lorraine Singleton Philomena Cremin & Geraldine Cremin Mossie Fitzpatrick & Timothy Collins Cormac Collins & Yvonne Crean PJ O'Leary & Batt Casey June Walsh & Ide Fitzgerald Maureen Fleming & Brin McDonnell Noreen McSweeney & Mairead O'Sullivan Elenor Sheahan & Denis McAuliffe Brian Kelly & Marie O'Leary Mike Allen & Breda O'Callaghan Conor Creedon & Colette Carmody Batt O'Callaghan & Jeremiah Murphy Bertie O'Leary & Lil Fleming

North Eastern Duhallow Communities

IRD Duhallow Representatives

Castlemagner Dromtariffe Kanturk Kilbrin Lismire Newmarket Tullylease Freemount

Andy Bourke & Annette O'Mahony David O'Keeffe & John Linehan John Fuller & Tommy Mullane Tom O'Riordan & Paulina Breen Martina Aherne & Marie Arnold Paul Murphy & Ollie Dugdale Angela Hannigan & Mary O'Connell PJ O'Sullivan & Mike O'Regan

Mid Cork Communities

IRD Duhallow Representatives

Carriganimmy Clondrohid Aghabullogue Rylane Ballinagree Bealnamorive Inchigeelagh Kilbarry Macroom Rusheen

Joan Kelleher & Mauirce Manning Breda Kelleher & Gerald Kelleher Cal Healy & Conor McSweeny Nigel Dennehy & John Crowley Shane Lehane & Aonghus MacSuibhne Jim Twomey & Martin Coughlan Joe Creedon & Mike Joe Corkery Siobhan O'Dowd & Nora Casey Breda McCarthy & Nora O'Riordan Gerald Coakley & Ken Keneally

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James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co. Cork, Ireland Tel: 00-353-29-60633 Fax: 00-353-29-60694 • Email: duhallow@irdduhallow.com

www.irdduhallow.com