IRD Duhallow Progress Report 2024 - 2025

COMMUNITIES IN DUHALLOW

- the spirit of rural ireland.

The Land & People The IRD Duhallow region includes North West Cork, South East Kerry and Mid Cork. It is an area of natural development and is predominantly rural. Over 85% of the population live in the open countryside or in settlements of less than 200 people.

The IRD Duhallow region has five market towns: Macroom (Pop. 3765), Kanturk (Pop. 2350), Millstreet (Pop. 1555), Newmarket (Pop. 976) and Rathmore (Pop. 790).

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

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

Contents Page PAGE

PAGE

Chairperson’s Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Support For Ukrainian Refugees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Manager’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Equality For Women & Childcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32, 33

IRD Duhallow Board Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 5, 6

Duhallow Carers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

IRD Duhallow CLG. Company Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Saoi Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Details Of Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9, 10

Disability And Mental Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Rural Community Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Waters of Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Farming for Water EIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

WorkAbility: Inclusive Pathways To Employment Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Agriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Local Area Employment Service (LAES) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Social Farming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Youth And Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40, 41

Enterprise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Employment And Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42, 43

IRD Duhallow Skillnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Rural Social Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44, 45

Rural Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 19

Tús . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46, 47

Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Community Employment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Culture & Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Community Employment Rehabilitation Scheme . . . 49

LEADER In Duhallow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22, 23

Revamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Communicating Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24, 25

Circular Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

SICAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Duhallow Community Laundry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Afterschools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Warmer Homes Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Community Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28, 29

Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) . . . . 54, 55

Equality And Social Inclusion In Duhallow . . . . . . . . . 30

Large Scale Capital Community Projects . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Minister of State for Charities, Gaeltacht and the Islands & Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer with Eileen Linehan, Assistant CEO, Maura Walsh CEO and Michael Twohig, Chair.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Chairperson’s Address Inspector Paul Aherne. These new representatives bring a wealth of experience and expertise and we look forward to working with them.

On behalf of the Board, as I come towards the end of my three-year term as Chairman of IRD Duhallow, I am delighted to present the 2024/2025 Progress Report, which was in many ways a transformative year having achieved independent Local Action Group status.

The Company was challenged early in the New Year with not one but two severe weather events which saw unprecedented heavy snowfalls block people into their houses and suffer widespread power outages from the weight of lingering snow on the power lines. Our delivery vehicles had to be dug out of the snow to allow access in order for essential meal on wheels deliveries to be made.

IRD Duhallow was invited to be part of both Cork and Kerry County Councils Response Teams and our management and staff went to extraordinary lengths to come into work, prioritising community services mobilising community contacts and in particular farmers and Macra na Feirme members to assist us in reaching those hard to reach isolated homes, delivering not only hot fresh dinners but other essential supplies like water and groceries. This bad weather was followed promptly by Storm Éowyn which caused further havoc to already weakened power lines leaving some of our communities again without power.

IRD Duhallow’s response to these two major and unprecedented events proved once again our agility and flexibility and our reach through the deep roots we have developed in all our communities.

Following our mission of being a Vehicle Promoting Prosperity, Self-help and Quality of Life -Saibhreas a Cothú, and keeping true to our vision of Meeting the Unmet Needs of all Our Communities, IRD Duhallow has once again shown its value in the region, working with Local Authorities, Agencies, and Government Departments in delivering national policy locally.

As part of the company’s annual strategic review, the Board interrogate our values to ensure they reflect what kind of company we have become and want to be into the future. Our values are therefore stated as Courageous, Innovative, Responsive, Caring, Driven and Trusted. These values continue to guide IRD Duhallow at all levels.

The Strategic Review determined the policy priorities that need to be pursued at all levels. A position paper was agreed, and the CEO was tasked with drawing it up and publishing it so that all election candidates were made aware of where we stand and what we see as required for our Region. It was published in our magazine Discover Duhallow and we have brought it to the attention of elected representatives at local, national and European level.

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As Chairperson I am satisfied that the appropriate controls exist and are managed effectively to meet the governance requirements of the Charities Regulator and the Governance Code through which we operate. Board and Senior Management sign up to the Ethics in Public Office standards. We have also maintained our NSAI Gold Standard in Excellence through People. I therefore want to thank our Vice Chair and Chairperson of our Finance Committee Anne Maria Bourke for her support and financial oversight and our auditors Westboro Partners, Mary Power, Deirdre Bardsley McGee and Aiman Bakar for their diligence in carrying out our annual audit. I can attest that IRD Duhallow remains solvent with sufficient reserves to carry out and grow our function. The Board is very proud of the progress we have made and the targets achieved, in implementing the programmes that we commenced in the past year as well as adding new programmes such as LAWPRO Farming for Water EIP and our application submitted for the development of new and additional walks through ORIS. IRD Duhallow has refreshed our Board again this year with the addition of four new Board members while two members been renominated. The Community Forum regions of North Eastern Duhallow has nominated Michelle Green from Freemount to join Paul Murphy of Newmarket; while our mid Cork region have nominated Cáit Ring and Joseph Cronin to the Board. From the Statutory sector An Garda Síochána will be represented by

Margaret McSweeney, John Lyons and Tom O’Riordan retire from the Board having completed their two terms and I want to thank them for their commitment and dedication throughout their six years of service. No doubt they will continue to serve on their community structures and stay linked to IRD Duhallow. The Company continues to maintain its gender balance on the Board.

A huge thank you to all Board members who continue to govern this company through courageous leadership and faithful representation of our communities. As volunteers they give generously of their time and expertise.

IRD Duhallow conducted a mid-term review of its strategy implementation and identified priorities for the remainder of the year. The consensus was that we drive our response to the possible impacts of current global uncertainties and threats on this region. In addition, we looked at the changing policies regarding the multi fund framework at European level which we now know could wipe out 30% of the Common Agricultural Policy funding to this country. I was however heartened to see that LEADER has remained a focus of European Policy and Minister Calleary has issued a statement that as negotiations begin that his Department is reiterating the importance of CAP and his commitment to advocate for LEADER stating that since 1991 it has revitalised rural Ireland, supported jobs and services and he therefore wants to see LEADER as a core element of the new CAP framework, keeping rural Ireland front and centre in all negotiations. The fact that Ireland will hold the EU Presidency for the final negotiations should auger well for LEADER. IRD Duhallow continues to build on it’s strategic alliances through our networks and through our elected representatives. It was our great pleasure to welcome Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and at the Department of Transport; Michael Moynihan, Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth and Michael Healy-Rae, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, each of whom gave generously of their time visiting our Social Enterprises and the projects specific to their briefs, which are detailed in this report. We also welcomed MEPs Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, Billy Kelleher and Sean Kelly who as part of our Communicating Europe Initiative visited post primary schools in Rathmore, Boherbue, Kanturk, Millstreet and Macroom where they each got a rapturous welcome.

Our two newly elected Senators Nicole Ryan from Millstreet and Eileen Lynch from Rylane have attended events including the Women’s Forum Conference and the opening of Boherbue Looped Walk. While former Board Member and newly elected TD John Paul O’Shea has assumed Cathaoirleach of the Dail Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development, he has continued to support our work throughout the region.

It's been an eventful year for the board, management and staff. I want to thank each and everyone of them for their commitment, guidance and support. As a founder member I step down as chair in September knowing Duhallow is in a better place because of the existence of our organisation.

I'm sure it will continue to grow under the guidance of a strong board and management team into the future.

Michael Twohig CHAIR

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Manager’s Report IRD Duhallow’s focus over the past year has been firstly to commence delivery of the programmes that we had successfully tendered for last year like LEADER, SICAP, Skillnet, Workability and the Community Centres Fund (Rylane).

Secondly to build on and advance the implementation of those programmes already in place, like our Local and Employment Service (LAES) Community Mental Health, Social Farming; Home Carers, Addiction CE Scheme as well as Rural Social Scheme, Tus and Community Employment and thirdly to support and grow social enterprises based within IRD Duhallow as well as those that are independent and whose startup we have assisted.

This Progress Report outlines the achievements and illustrates the activities that we have continued to grow and further develop again this year. A few to note are LEADER €525,000 committed to 15 projects and SICAP has committed €60,844.

Through our Skillnet programme we have a engaged 352 companies and funded 2,535 training days and held an outstanding Enterprise awards night recognising the achievements of 18 local enterprises culminating in an excellent Recognition of Learning event with Michael Moynihan, Minister of State at the Department of Education and Youth with special responsibility for Special Education and Inclusion and Dave Flynn of Skillnet Ireland presenting almost 200 awards including QQI Level 5, 6 and 8.

Workability has progressed with 14 participants benefiting from our support this year. Our Walks Scheme was expanded in the past year with 6 farmers added to the Duhallow Way achieving an additional 4 Km of waymarked way. In addition, two looped walks in Kiskeam and the popular Boherbue Ditch Walk were completed with Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme Funding and great work done by RSS and Tus participants.

The Community Centre Fund, our major project in Rylane is going to tender with a completion date in 2026. Our Afterschools has increased its capacity and is currently serving 40 school children opening from 7.00am for Breakfast Club and up to 6.00pm with all day service when school is out.

Our Community Mental Health Project has expanded its reach with a listening service and increased emphasis on and supports offered to rural men and farmers in particular. While our Social Farming Programme continues to expand with new farming families coming on board and the James O’Keeffe Memorial Foundation Social Farm is accommodating over 20 participants.

We were disappointed not to get an EIP project for the River Allow moreover given the pressure on the river after the chemical incident last year, however we are delighted to have the LAWPRO farming for Blue Dot on the Owentaraglin river while Waters of Life supports improvements with farmers on the Awbeg.

IRD Duhallow has been addressing climate change and sustainability for over two decades. All our programmes and activities are contributing significantly to the Sustainable Development Goals as well as the Local Authorities’ Local Economic Community Plans (LECP). Climate change has meant that we are experiencing more frequent and more extreme weather events as the Chairman has outlined.

Government policy is seeking a whole of society response. IRD Duhallow has initiated and supported a strong response from this region through a number of programmes with our Warmer Homes project supported by SEAI retrofitting homes across the wider region, delivering 4,937 homes and 33 community centres retrofitted to date, which is the equivalent of 4,473 tons of carbon and greenhouse gas removed. Our environmental programmes have over the past 15 years addressed key areas to mitigate climate change including our uplands, rivers and agriculture, we know that farmers are key to proving solutions and driving change not only mitigating climate change but also to improving Water Quality.

jointly commissioned experts Etownz to develop a Curriculum for other LEADER Groups and communities to implement Smart Village plans for the sustainability of their communities’ futures.

IRD Duhallow is blessed with a professional versatile and capable staff and exceptional leadership at Board and subcommittee level. Since coming to IRD Duhallow, I have served 11 Chairpersons, all of whom have shown great strength and character and have given generously and freely of their time. Our outgoing Chairperson Michael Twohig has certainly led by example with hands on support and courageous leadership. Through his attendance at least weekly and often more at our office he has made himself freely available to all staff as well as the Management Teams and me.

Michael has several businesses and sporting interests to which he will now be able to dedicate more time. Thank you for your strong support throughout your tenure.

Likewise, Anne Maria Bourke has served previously as Chairperson and ViceChairperson and has too given very generously of her time and expertise to the Company. Like the Chairperson she is frequently at our office and available to all of us for advice and guidance, as well as serving on a number of our sub committees.

It is vital that IRD Duhallow continues to have the people, skills and experience to grow and develop the programmes and implement the strategies the Board decide and oversee. We have lost some staff members to Local Authorities but also regrettably because of the lack of childcare places in the region. This is something that we need to address into the future by supporting the existing creches and perhaps getting new facilities established.

We have recruited six great people with a range from enthusiastic and newly graduated to those with several years outside experience which they now bring to enhance our teams. Welcome to Lenora Kelly, Melissa Holland, Ellie Donovan, Aidan Suart, Shane McHale and William Lucid who have joined a robust body of staff and supervisors that have shown agility and determination to add value to all our programmes and also have developed a great rapport and commitment to the communities they serve, embracing the culture and values of the organisation. We remember DJ Sheehan, from our Warmer Homes team who succumbed to terminal illness this year. He was a multi-talented and skilled RSS participant who worked on all of our large scale projects. He is sadly missed by all who knew and worked with him.

IRD Duhallow, uniquely in our sector, has an all-female management team, that I am fortunate and proud to lead. Five courageous, innovative, responsive, caring and driven young women who guide and lead their teams professionally and collaboratively. We pride ourselves in having a truly integrated approach in the delivery of all programmes to ensure the best outcome for Duhallow and its people.

Eileen Linehan, Triona Dennehy, Helen O’Sullivan, Louise Bourke and Jackie Kelly through their work have made my job all the more enjoyable and easier. I thank each and every one of you. Eileen as Assistant CEO and I have been working very closely on all our major projects, and I commend her for her excellent work in producing this year’s Progress Report.

Looking to the future, IRD Duhallow remaining true to its values and mission, will continue to work closely with our communities, target groups and our stakeholders to address their unmet and emerging needs. We know from the demographic changes that we are facing, that childcare and elder care will need to be ratcheted up. We are already addressing the staffing needs of both sectors through Skillnet and upskilling, but we will have to look to government to see how infrastructure and expansion as well as new facilities can be built as a matter of urgency.

I am mindful that all these social enterprises rely heavily on RSS, Tús, CE participants as well as Community Service Programme funded staff.

Duhallow Community Food Services will need a significant expansion of its facility in order to meet the needs of a growing elderly population as well as support local schools’ hot meals. Our Ukrainian response continues and unfortunately there does not yet seem to be an end in sight to the war. Geopolitical influences, that are often most manifest far from Duhallow, can and do have a massive impact on our work.

We are reading with interest the European Commission and Parliament process in agreeing the next round of financial support with the Common Agricultural Policy coming under pressure. Within CAP LEADER has resided and therefore will too come under pressure, but I am heartened that commentators at all levels have emphasised its importance to the Social and Economic and Environmental future of Rural Europe.

IRD Duhallow supports Duhallow Community Food Services as it grows to meet community demand for Meals on Wheels and School meals, reducing food miles while delivering hot nutritious meals and freshly cooked dinners to the Secondary and Primary Schools in our area. Finally, through LEADER IRD Duhallow along with partner companies Galway Rural Development and Kilkenny LEADER Partnership

So, with confidence in the extraordinary commitment of our Board, sub-Committees, communities, as well as the agility, professionalism and dedication of our management team and entire staff we look back on the past year’s achievements and look forward to the next year. To borrow a phrase from someone close in IRD Duhallow we do not just state our values we work and live them.

Likewise, our Furniture Revamp has rescued 280 tons of furniture from going to landfill and has added paint recycling with 11 tons saved from costly export for incineration. This affordable Relove paint project which is supported by Cork County and City Council has benefited 58 community buildings in the past year funded by the Local Authority.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

IRD Duhallow Board Members MICHAEL TWOHIG Michael is a founder member of IRD Duhallow and currently serving his second term as Chairman of the Organisation, having previously been Chair from 2011 to 2013. He sits on the Finance Committee as well as the HR and Environment Working Groups. Michael represents Kanturk Chamber of Commerce on the Board. With his wife Noreen and family, Michael owns Supervalu Stores in Kanturk, Abbeyfeale and Askeaton. A keen angler and country sports enthusiast he has developed a number of angling projects in Duhallow.

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ANNE MARIA BOURKE Anne Maria is the current Vice Chairperson of IRD Duhallow. She represents the INTO on the Board and held the position of company Chair from 2015- 2018.

She is a former National School Principal and continues to work closely with State agencies in an advisory capacity. She is currently the Chair of the Finance Working Group and Vice Chairperson of the Women’s Forum Working Group as well as sitting on the HR Committee. She is a keen bridge player and is a member of the Kanturk Bridge Club.

BREEDA MOYNIHAN CRONIN

CORMAC COLLINS

Breeda re-joined the Board in 2014 to represent Duhallow’s Social Enterprises and held the position of Chairperson from 2019-2022. Breeda was a member of Dáil Éireann from 1992 – 2007 and a member of Kerry Co. Council from 1999- 2003 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.

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.

PADRAIC O’CONNELL

AMANDA O’SULLIVAN

Padraic is from Kanturk where he lives with his wife and two teenage daughters. He is Chairman of the IRD Duhallow Enterprise Working Group. In his work Padraic is Director of Energy Security at Gas Networks Ireland having held senior management position there in Human Resources, Energy Policy, Commercial, PR, Marketing and Legal for over 20 years. Padraic is actively involved in various community, school board and sporting clubs in Kanturk. He is also an avid golfer and is a member of Kanturk where he is Captain for 2025 and Killarney Golf Clubs and plays a little Tennis in Lombardstown Tennis Club.

Amanda comes from Boherbue and is a primary school teacher in Ballyclough National School. She was nominated to the Board of IRD Duhallow in 2022 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 last year.

Amanda has previously been the PRO for her club.

BARRY O’CONNOR

PAUL AHERNE

Barry represents Inland Fisheries Ireland and joined the Board of IRD Duhallow in 2024. He is the Director of Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Development Programme where he oversees the administration of funding schemes, the restoration of damaged river habitats and the stock of angling access infrastructure. Barry is a Chartered Civil Engineer with over 20 years’ experience in river engineering and flood risk management.

Paul is a member of An Garda Síochána holding the rank of Inspector. He is employed as a Community engagement Inspector attached to the Cork North West Policing area which incorporates the entire IRD Duhallow region. He is currently attached to Mallow Garda Station. He previously served as the Sergeant in charge of Kanturk Garda station from 2011-2019.

He has 27 years’ experience in Policing both rural and urban environments. Paul holds a BSc in Police Leadership & Governance from UCD. He is a native of Co. Clare and has resided in Kanturk since 2006 with his wife and two daughters. He is actively involved in both Banteer Camogie club and Kanturk ladies Football club as an underage coach.

DOMINIC CRONIN

GERALDINE GALVIN

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 and currently sits on the Board of Ornua cooperative.

Geraldine is the Administrator of the Lee Valley Enterprise Board that promotes business and all aspects of Macroom town and the greater surrounding area of the beautiful Lee Valley. A qualified Financial Advisor and former Commercial Bank Manager, with experience in portfolio management in the Business and Agri sector and in credit risk, Geraldine holds a TTT QQI 6 and Diploma in Specialty Food Production from UCC. Geraldine in involved in the local community as a volunteer with a number of local organisations and clubs in Macroom.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

IRD Duhallow Board Members GERALDINE O’LEARY

ROSIE HEALY

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.

Rosie joined the board of IRD Duhallow in July 2023 and represents the South Eastern Region. She sits on our Social Economy Working Group. She is involved in various groups locally on a voluntary basis including Banteer, Lyre Nadd and Districts Community Council, Lyre School Parents Association & Lyre Pre School Board. She is from Banteer where she lives with her husband and twin boys. Rosie works with Eli Lilly where she has held various management roles over her 13 years tenure with the company.

CAIT RING

JOSEPH CRONIN

Cait was elected to the board in July, 2025 representing Mid Cork. Cait is very involved in her local community committees of both Carriganima Community Development & is the Treasurer of Carriganima Community Association - CART Rural Bus Transport. She is married to Christy ands they run their family business an Agricultural Tractor & Machinery Business in Carriganima. Cait also works as a full time Civil Servant in the Financial Area in the Dept. Of Justice Equality & Law Reform.

Joseph is a resident of Macroom and deeply involved in community and environmental initiatives across Mid Cork. Actively working with Macroom Tidy Towns, Macroom GAA and local organisations, he has helped coordinate volunteer efforts and environment focused projects. Jospeh is a qualified commercial pilot holding both MEI (Multi-Engine Instrument) and CFII (Certified Flight Instructor Instrument) certifications in the United States and Ireland.

MICHELLE GREENE

PAUL MURPHY

Michelle Green is a native of Freemount and lives there with her husband Karol and their children, Misha and Luka. She holds a degree in Government and Public Policy, a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, and a Master’s in Public Management.

With over 20 years’ experience leading environmental projects, she has managed Cork County Council’s Environmental Awareness Office since 2019. An active member of her local community for many years, she recently co-founded the Freemount Women’s Shed and now serves as its co-chair.

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 organisations, serving as vice chairperson of Newmarket Sports & Leisure and as treasurer of the Board of Management for the local primary school.

PAT BROSNAN

BILLY DENNEHY

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. He is the Chair of our Equality Working Group.

Billy Dennehy was elected to the Board of IRD Duhallow 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, Treasurer of Kiskeam District and Social Action Group and member 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.

MARY WALLACE

JUDY O’LEARY

Mary Wallace is the Board's former Chairperson and sits on the Women & Childcare Working Group, she is also a member of our Finance Committee and chairs the Social Enterprise Working group and our HR committee. She was originally elected to the Board in 2015 representing the communities of our South Eastern Region. She is a retired Civil Servant having served in the Department of Employment & Social Protection. She has served on the Boards of Management of both primary and secondary schools and is an active member of Donoughmore Community Council serving as Treasurer and coordinates the Community Alert scheme.

Judy first joined the Board of IRD Duhallow in 1997 representing women’s’ 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.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

IRD Duhallow Board Members JOHN BREEN

JAMES O’KEEFFE

John represents the Environment Working Group on the Board. He retired in September 2022 as 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.

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 Council of ICMSA in 2021. James was on Kerry co-op advisory committee from 2011 – 2021 and served as a Board member of Kerry Co-op from 2018 to 2024. He is an outdoor enthusiast who is married to Aine and they have two children.

CLLR. GOBNAIT MOYNIHAN

CLLR. MARTIN COUGHLAN

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.

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 Enterprise Board organising the Food Festival, the St. Patricks Day parade and the erection of the Macroom town Christmas lights.

CLLR. FIONNÁN FITZGERALD

CLLR. IAN DOYLE

Fionnán is a secondary teacher and was first elected Councillor for the Castleisland Area in May 2019. He was nominated to the Board of IRD Duhallow to represent Kerry County Council at that time and has remained on the board since. He has been a community activist for many years particularly in the field of social inclusion for elderly, community alert groups and also the provision of sport for youth.

Ian 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, Holy Cross Conference and was its President for many years. He 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.

DAVID DOYLE 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.

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

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: 1,721 Jobs Created 2,412 Businesses Supported 269 Community Groups Supported Community Work Placements Supported 635 21,159 Training Places Created 4,937 Homes Insulated 280 Tonnes of Furniture Diverted from Landfill

1,721

Upwards of 3,500 people, participate from the bottom up approach 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 target 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 COMMUNITY CHILDCARE NETWORK

280

2,412 269

4,937 21,159

Youth & Education

635

Community Development GEOGRAPHIC

COMMUNITY CARE

CULTURE & HERITAGE

Equality UKRAINIAN RESPONSE WORKABILITY MIGRANTS MENTAL HEALTH

Community Forum

COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH

Employment & Training

CARE & REPAIR

BOARD

LAES STEERING GROUP

Enterprise & Tourism ENTERPRISE SKILLNET DUHALLOW ANGLING

FRIENDLY PHONE CALL SERVICE

2025

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT

Social Partners

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT

Agriculture SOCIAL FARMING BEE KEEPERS FARMING FOR BLUE DOT EIP

Statutory Agencies

Local Authorities

FAMILY CARERS

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

Independent Evaluation Committee Strategic Working Groups

Finance

Strategic Working Group Sub-Committees

Human Resources Independent Evaluation Committee

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

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

Eileen is the Assistant Manager and supports the Manager in the day-to-day running of the company including Human Resources & the financial operations of a number of programmes & Social Enterprises. She manages the LEADER programme and monitors LEADER through its IT system.

Eileen supports the Team Leaders in their roles to ensure effective and efficient running of their teams and programmes. She represents Local Development Companies on Cork County Childcare Committee, which she currently chairs.

HELEN O’SULLIVAN B.Soc.Sc(Batchelor of Social Science)., Masters of Social Science, Dip Com Leadership & Mgt, Cert in Agri.

Triona is Employment, Training and Social Inclusion Team Leader with overall responsibility for SICAP and the Local Area Employment Services Programme. She oversees the Equality and Training briefs including: Duhallow REVAMP, the Walks Scheme, CE Rehabilitation Scheme, Social Farming, RSS and Tús. She works with communities in Western Duhallow and Mid Cork to access LEADER funding and supports the work of both the Community and Employment Working Groups.

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

Helen is the Community Services Team Leader. She oversees the Rural Community Health Initiative, Towards Occupation, Workability Programme and Afterschools. She co-ordinates our Ukrainian Response & New Arrivals Programme and liaises with other agencies involved at regional level.

Helen works on both the LEADER & SICAP Programmes supporting community groups in Duhallow access supports and funding. She also oversees the Community Development& Youth & Equality Working Groups.

Louise joined IRD Duhallow in November 2010 and is the Enterprise & Environment Team Leader. She coordinates 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 oversees the Environment measures and has responsibility for the Community Investment Fund.

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.

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

Nollaig is employed since 2017 as a Development Officer with IRD Duhallow. She works on both LEADER and SICAP programmes. She coordinates the Communicating Europe Initiative, organising events that foster public engagement with EU matters. Her role includes work on heritage projects. She also works on social inclusion activities that supports integration of new communities. She is a tutor on the TTRS computer classes, which are part of IRD Duhallow’s Literacy Support Programme aimed at enhancing children's reading, writing, and spelling skills.

Monica joined the IRD Duhallow team in June 2021 as Development Officer on the Enterprise Team. Monica works as Business Development Manager for the Company’s Community Enterprises through the Community Services Programme. She promotes good business practices, developing the social enterprises and supporting their staff.

Monica also assists with IRD’s Skillnet Programme, supporting local businesses to upskill and develop talent.

She coordinates the enterprise and tourism actions of the LEADR programme.

LENORA KELLY Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Agricultural Science.

MELISSA HOLLAND PG Dip in Sociology (Youth, Community & Social Regeneration), BA in Sociology and Psychology, Certificate in Low-Arousal method.

Lenora joined IRD Duhallow in November 2024 as a Development Officer, she is responsible for the assisting with the SICAP and SAOI Programmes and has worked with the Communicating Europe Programme.Lenora is also Case Officer with the Local Area Employment Services. Her responsibilities include identifying local employment opportunities, sourcing relevant training to enhance clients’ skillsets, and supporting their pathways to future employment.

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

P.J. joined IRD Duhallow’s Community Services Team in November 2021 as the Social Enterprise Development Officer. P.J. works with social enterprises across Duhallow by organising training and workshops to help their development and increase their social impact. PJ also works across LEADER and SICAP in his role as a Development Officer. He is also a Case Officer on the LAES Programme and he helps with the coordination and implementation of the LAES. He works one-to-one with long-term unemployed clients to help them find employment.

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

Melissa joined IRD Duhallow in March 2025 as a Development Officer. She coordinates the Afterschool’s programme and the WorkAbility programme. The WorkAbility programme focuses on progressive employment pathways for individuals with diverse needs through education, training, skills development, and tailored supports. She also oversees the Youth, Children, and Families actions under SICAP and serves as the staff resource for the Youth and Education Working Group.

SHANE McHALE BA Social Care.

Shane joined IRD Duhallow in May 2025 in the role of Rural Community Health Worker, with a strong focus on suicide prevention and intervention. Shane supports initiatives that seek to promote awareness of mental health issues and that empower members of the community to take charge of their own mental health. Shane also acts as a bridge to various support services both within IRD Duhallow and in the broader region. Men’s mental health, and the greater participation of men in health initiatives, are a particular focus of his work.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

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 the establishment and maintenance of the company’s financial systems and procedures. She presents financial reports for management and the Board of Directors monthly. She prepares financial returns for programs such as LEADER and SICAP, monitors Budgets and prepares variance analysis along with commentary. Jackie liaises with company auditors for yearend 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 both Duhallow Community Food Services and IRD Duhallow Furniture Revamp. 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.

Maggie liaises with the Duhallow Community Food Services company auditors for the preparation of the yearend financial statement. Maggie also contributes to the main accounts within IRD Duhallow through the preparation and processing of Accounts Payable.

AIDAN SUART Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science.

Aidan joined IRD Duhallow in March 2025 as the Farming for Water Agricultural Community Animator. He is responsible for the recruitment of farmers into the Farming for Water EIP project, promoting best practices and assisting in community led work to enhance the reach and impact of the Farming for Water EIP. Aidan is the staff resource to the Environment and Agriculture Working groups.

CIARÁN CARMODY B.A. in Economics and Geography, M.A. in Rural Futures Planning and Innovation.

Ciarán joined IRD Duhallow in April 2024 as a Development Officer, working mainly as a case officer with the Local Area Employment Services. Ciarán’s responsibilities include exploring employment opportunities in the area and identifying training to improve the client’s skillset and increase their chances of employment in the future. Ciarán meets clients of the LAES in our Newmarket and Macroom offices. Ciarán also support communities in LEADER & SICAP Applications.

ANNA CIESLOWSKA MSc. Management Information and Managerial Accounting Systems, B.A. Economics (Through Transformational Learning).

Anna has joined IRD Duhallow in June 2024 as a Development Officer on the Enterprise Team. She is responsible for coordinating LEADER projects to support local businesses based in Duhallow, creating vibrant rural areas. She is also involved in facilitating affordable training & skills through our Skillnet programme to drive the development of local enterprises. Anna also provides support to our Social Enterprises.

MARGARET O’CONNOR MAAT-Accounting Technician, AIPA – Payroll Technician.

Margaret is the Senior Accounts Administrator and has been employed by IRD Duhallow for twenty- eight years.

She has responsibility for Duhallow Skillnet and Out of Schools Accounts. She prepares monthly accounts and completes the financial returns for both Programmes and submits them to Departments on a monthly and quarterly basis. She prepares budget v actual reports for Management and monitors Debtors for each Programme.

She reports to the Social Economy Working Group each month on the financial information for Afterschools.

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

Julie joined IRD Duhallow in March 2015 and is part of the Finance department. Her primary responsibilities are in relation to Payroll for various programmes within the company. Her role includes processing weekly payrolls and generating associated reports. She is also responsible for CSP returns in relation to the Wages Grant received from Pobal. Julie’s role also includes reconciliation of Creditor Accounts and processing payments to Suppliers on a monthly basis .Julie also processes the applications for Personal Alarms units through the Senior Alert Scheme.

COLM O’CONNOR Supervisory management QQI Ll6, 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 and in 2020 has been the Revamp Kickstart Programme coordinator. He was appointed RSS Supervisor in November 2021 and Rural Recreation Officer in 2025.

Colm looks after the transport portfolio in the company and coordinates the maintenance of our fleet of vehicles. He also supports our Circular Economy Initiatives. Colm is a member of the Health and Safety committee and is one of the in-house manual handling instructor.

ELLIE DONOVAN Environment, Sustainability and Climate (QQI L7), Training Needs Identification & Design and Delivery & Evaluation (QQI L6), H. Dip Applied Social Studies, Royal Hort. Soc. Horticulture & Applied Propagation.

Ellie joined IRD Duhallow in April 2025 as Social Farming Coordinator. She manages our Social Farm and Community Gardens and facilitates Towards Occupation and Workability gardening groups, as well as Gardening CE Scheme participants. She is responsible for recruiting and supporting host farmers and project participants. Ellie is a committee member of Community Gardens Ireland and is the current secretary of The Environmental Forum’s board of directors.

DERVAL CORBETT ECDL, Cert in Supervisory Management.

Derval is employed as an Administrator based in the Reception Office. She has been employed by IRD Duhallow on a part time basis for 25 years. She deals with initial queries to the company and provides administration support to Management and Staff. Her areas of responsibility include the company’s administration requirements and is editor of the company’s monthly Newsletter, which is circulated to over 14,000 homes. Derval is one of the Liaison Persons with the National Vetting Bureau on behalf of Partnership Companies supporting Garda Vetting Applications nationally.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

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.

Paddy has over twenty four years’ experience in the role of CE Supervisor. In that time, he has supported participants on the scheme to develop their skills and encourages them to access training in their bid to return to mainstream employment using the online Individual Learning Plan Computer System whereby each participant receives a tailored progression plan. Paddy liaises will all sub sponsors on the scheme to ensure we are providing maximum benefit to the communities we serve. He also works closely with the IRD Duhallow Job Centre Employment Officer.

COLM CROWLEY Diploma in Rural Development, Certificate in Business Studies, IMCV Professional Manager Award, Building Energy Rating Assessor.

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

Colm joined IRD Duhallow in July 2007 as the Warmer Homes Scheme Coordinator and is responsible for the implementation of a number of SEAI programmes which include the Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme, Home Incentive Scheme, Better Energy Communities and Senior Alert Scheme. Colm coordinates staff training in line with the National Standard Authority of Irelands 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 is a fully qualified Manual Handling instructor.

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.

AMANDA KELLER Management & Business (QQI L6); Project Management (QQI L6), Computerised Payroll (QQI L6); Business Administration (QQI L6).

Manual Handling Instructor (QQI L6).

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

Amanda joined IRD Duhallow in September 2022 as the CE Assistant Supervisor and is currently responsible for working alongside Paddy O’Connor in assisting people who are long term unemployed to work towards their personal and career goals developing their skills and encouraging them back into mainstream employment, helping each participant develop a tailored progression plan. She also oversees the payroll/finances and administration for the CE scheme.

Mariia is the Integration Officer, CFI Coordinator, and Interpreter at IRD Duhallow. She joined IRD Duhallow in June 2022 as a part of Ukrainian Response team. In her role, Mariia organises a wide range of activities including work-related training courses, mental health and wellbeing events, and integration initiatives. She also provides tailored career guidance and support to individuals navigating employment pathways. Since April 2025, Mariia has taken on responsibilities under the Community Food Initiative (CFI), where she actively promotes healthy eating habits among vulnerable groups, with the goal of improving nutrition and reducing health inequalities across the community.

YULIIA ILIASHENKO Batchelors of Civil Law (BCL), Masters in Criminal Law.

ALINA O’MAHONY Masters Diploma in English Language & Literature.

Yuliia joined IRD Duhallow in September 2022 as an Integration Officer. She supports both refugees and asylum seekers across the region, offering tailored information to help them navigate local systems. Yuliia organises a range of workshops and training programmes focused on building employment-related skills and supporting mental health and well-being. She also continues to provide interpreting support at the weekly GP clinic. She works closely with the local Housing Department under the Offer a Home scheme, helping newly arrived families access accommodation. In collaboration with our Tús supervisors, she also supports Ukrainian participants engaged in the Tús activation programme, guiding them through the process and helping them integrate into the local community.

Alina joined IRD Duhallow in 2022 as a part-time interpreter and has been working full-time as a Ukrainian Support Worker since January 2023. She assists the Ukrainian community through interpretation, event coordination, and social media updates. Alina helps organise drop-in clinics and supports newcomers settling into Duhallow. In addition, Alina works as a Case Officer with the LAES, guiding individuals through personalised employment plans. She supports clients with job searching, CV preparation, and accessing training or education, helping them integrate into the workforce and achieve their goals.

ELMARIE YOUNG B.Soc.Sc - Batchelor of Social Work. QQI L6 Social and Vocational Integration. Diploma in Events Managements, Irish Academy of Public Relations. QQI L5 Psychology. QQI L5 Community and Healthcare. Certificate in Teaching Adult Learners.

WILLIAM LUCID B of Eng, Mechanical Fitter & Machinist.

Elmarie joined the IRD Duhallow team in February 2024 as the Rural Community Health Worker and in 2025, she was appointed to the role of Co-ordinator of the C.E. Rehabilitation Scheme. She works with individuals in recovery from substance misuse and addiction around their employment and education needs, in order to reintegrate them into the community and enable them to gain employment in their chosen area.

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PADDY O’CONNOR Community Employment Supervisor.

Billy was appointed as Tús supervisor in July of 2025. His main areas of responsibility include – recruiting, managing and supervising scheme participants in several different community development settings. He provides on-site direction to ensure effective performance and personal development of participants. Billy has 40 years of experience involving industrial maintenance & upkeep , with experience in hydronic and steam heating systems and RTU maintenance along with vintage machinery restoration. Initiatives on Irish heritage and historic sites are of great interest to him.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Environment IRD Duhallow since its inception has had the environment as one of the four pillars of our strategic plan.

Michael Doyle continues to chair the Environment Working Group, which has made great strides in developing a range of projects across Duhallow. 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.

wildlife throughout the year. Discover Duhallow is distributed widely in local shops and community centres, as well as online at https://www.irdduhallow.com/discover-duhallow-local-communitynews

IRD Duhallow has approved LEADER funding to develop Nature Calendars for 2025-2027 through the LEADER programme.

“Fox Among The Flowers” by Neily Curtin IRD Duhallow received some amazing entries as part of its 2025 calendar photography competition. Follow the Discover Duhallow magazine’s regular nature columns for further insights into local nature habitats.

Fluvial Geomorphology Assessment of Owentaraglin River IRD Duhallow has engaged a consultancy agency to deliver and complete a field study of the river Owentaraglin sub basin. The assessment will have two phases.

Phase 1 will involve the collection of geomorphic data which will be used to assess reach scale pressures on the Owentaraglin. The information that will be gathered will include floodplain morphology, riparian bankside cover, instream channel morphology conditions, river engineering pressures and constraints, water management and other land pressures.

Phase 2 will include a Restoration Options Assessment Report, the report will identify site specific, network-wide and sub basin scale restoration measures within the context of phasing and prioritization, based on these outputs a recommendation of measures will be made following best practices and the scientific evidence with an emphasis on measures that can be applied by landowners through the likes of an EIP project that will maximize the impact on the catchment.

Discover Duhallow Ecology Column Former IRD Duhallow Ecologist Rowan Lanning will be publishing an ecology column throughout 2025 in IRD Duhallow’s fortnightly magazine Discover Duhallow, highlighting the flora, fauna, and wider environment of Duhallow both past and present. Segments include information on the folklore & ecology of native trees, plants, seasonal festivals, exploration of Duhallow’s water resources including holy wells and river ecology, the seasonal life cycle of animals as well as Barn Owl project continues in 2025, with Birdwatch Ireland. tips and tricks to Watch the video of Duhallow barn owls here working with https://youtu.be/GLaS3Np5a9A?si=WglU3PHHfThpci3p

River Blackwater Catchment Programme A new catchment group for the Blackwater Catchment was formed in Spring 2025. IRD Duhallow will be working in collaboration with a diverse group of keystakeholders on the Blackwater River from the dairy and meat sectors to governmental agencies and agricultural advisors to deliver a whole catchment approach to water quality and environmental sustainability along the Blackwater and its tributaries from source to sea. The programme was launched in April at The Firgrove Hotel, Mitchelstown. The programme led by Dairygold which will take place over three years was launched by Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon.

The programme is being supported by LAWPRO’S Farming for Water EIP and will focus on three key areas including nutrient management, farm management and land management.

Communities Planting for Biodiversity Under the LEADER 14-20 programme sub theme ‘Protection and Improvement of Local Biodiversity’ IRD Duhallow was approved an umbrella project for communities across Duhallow. This project has enabled communities to plant a variety of native hedgerows, woodland plants, fruit bushes and trees, Macroom Tidy Towns engaged with the LEADER nut trees, herbs, pollinator 2014-2020 project Communities Planting for and butterfly friendly seeds, Biodiversity project, pictured is an example of the plants, and bulbs across the groups tree planting activities in Macroom Town. greater Duhallow region.

The project has positively impacted all participating communities by increasing awareness of how local biodiversity enhances our quality of life. Its innovative focus on empowering communities to take ownership of local biodiversity is key. By providing native and heritage trees, plants and materials, the project ensures long-term community support of biodiversity. It will also lead to a significant reinstatement of the native flora and fauna lost through development and inappropriate actions of the past. It was great to see such significant uptake from groups in communities, ranging from tidy towns committees and GAA clubs to community childcare facilities and schools.

Sustainability Seminar In November 2024 IRD Duhallow’s Environment Working Group was delighted to host a Sustainability Seminar. Organised with the view of encouraging people to incorporate an attitude of sustainability into their lifestyles, this event included speakers offering guidance on food wastage and financial planning. This event was organised under the SICAP Community Education and Lifelong Learning Measure with Waste Down and MABS. The subject matter included waste prevention and green waste management, composting, and Our Environment Working Group erected 5 swift towers across the Duhallow region and The JOK environmental awareness. tower in Newmarket continues to be a busy spot!

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

The Waters of LIFE Project The EU Waters of LIFE project aims to reverse the decline of Ireland's most pristine rivers by working with landowners and communities to develop new solutions. The project will operate a results-based agri-environment scheme from 2025 to 2028, Six sub catchments have been chosen as demonstration catchments for the Waters of Life Project.

The famers that participate in the scheme will undertake initiatives to trial and develop water quality solution measures. The Six Sub Catchments included in the Waters of Life project include the Avonmore, Duhallow’s Awbeg River as well as Graney, Sheen, Islands and the Shournagh.

proposed and ensuring local community involvement in developing the land-use management actions to be implemented.

• Making recommendations that will inform the development of future agri-environment and forestry policies and provide for the long-term sustainable management of high-status areas.

• Enhancing public appreciation of the ecology, ecosystems and natural capital value of high-status waters and their catchments.

• Developing and building synergies between measures implemented to address water quality considerations and related biodiversity objectives within the catchments of high-status waters, and: • Monitoring and demonstrating the effectiveness of the measures implemented.

The project will demonstrate the effective implementation of an integrated catchment-based approach for the application of measures to protect and/or restore all waters for which a high-status objective has been identified in Ireland’s River Basin Management Plan. It will be implemented across six high-status river sub catchments comprising a mixture of land-uses typical of such catchments.

A Riparian Zone which reduces pollutants and sediments entering watercourses.

Waters of Life Approach: The continued loss of high-status waters is among the most concerning, protracted and persistent water quality trend in Ireland. Other water quality trends have well-understood cause and effect, with detailed plans in place to mitigate impacts. More actions are necessary to protect pristine waters. Many of these waters are small, upland streams. The protection and restoration of these waters is one of the key underpinning principles of the Water Framework Directive. The overall objective of the Waters of LIFE IP is to support the implementation of measures to protect and enhance High-Status Waters and thus to support the work of the Blue Dot Catchments Programme.

Vision and Project Targets of the Waters of Life Project: The Waters of LIFE EIP will act as a catchment-scale demonstration project to test and validate the effectiveness of implementing locally tailored ‘best practice’ measures across a range of landscapes and land-uses typically associated with the catchments of high-status waters. The project will trial and validate the implementation of measures at catchment scale across six pilot catchments with the view to: • Building a technical understanding of the design and implementation of measures across a variety of key land-uses to deliver effective solutions at a catchment-wide scale for the protection of high-status waters.

• Promoting community and landowner ownership of the actions

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The Freshwater Pearl Mussel a protected species found in the Duhallow region.

Cattle photographed overseeing proceeding’s during the completion of field work.

Measures to address various pressures including hydromorphology, forestry, agriculture, wastewater and other pressures will be trailed in five of these areas, with the sixth acting as a control. Apart from the control, these catchments have been chosen because they at risk of failing to meet the high-status objective that has been set for them under the River Basin Management Plan for Ireland 2022-2027.

Waters of Life in Duhallow: Awbeg (Kilbrin): This demonstration catchment is the sub catchment of the river Awbeg (but not the one that flows through Buttevant) which rises to the South of Liscarroll in Co. Cork and flows Southwards to join the main channel of the Blackwater East of Banteer.

The catchment has an area of approx. 80km². Both the water bodies that make up the demonstration catchment have a high-status objective. However, one has fallen to good status for the last two monitoring cycles, the other is not monitored, but has recently been assigned a predicted status of high by the EPA. The significant pressures in this area are both agriculture and hydromorphology.

An established Multi-Species Sward, one such measure available through the Waters of Life Project.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Farming for Water EIP The Farming for Water project is a new initiative under the European Innovation Partnership, the project aims to address water quality challenges throughout the country. The 60-million-euro initiative led by LAWPRO and in partnership with both Teagasc and Dairy Industry Ireland, launched in 2024 and the project will run until 2027. The Farming for Water EIP aims to improve water quality at local, catchment and national levels while also adding additional environmental benefits. The project is open to farmers in priority catchments which are otherwise known as priority areas for action. These are specific areas within a larger catchment that have been identified as requiring focused attention for water quality improvements of farmers in these priority areas are potentially eligible for funding under the project. There is a total of 43 mitigation measures available to assist in making improvements in these areas.

IRD Duhallow and the Farming for Water EIP IRD Duhallow successfully secured a competitive a bid for 1 of 5 National Agricultural Community Animator Posts. The Community Animator is working with farmers in the Duhallow Region as part of the Farming for Water EIP. This will build on all the great work achieved by IRD Duhallow’s project farmers to date throughout previous LIFE & EIP projects, such as the Duhallow Blue Dot EIP and the Owentaraglin EIP.

IRD Duhallow’s CEO Maura Walsh opens an Information Evening held in the James O’Keeffe Institute.

available through the EIP, how the project works and the overall benefits of the project in further improving their farms contribution towards enhancing water quality and also promoting environmental benefits.

The Agricultural Community Animator’s role includes working to communicate and promote the importance of good agricultural practices to protect and restore water quality in the Duhallow region, recruiting farmers into the project and showcasing areas of best practice.

How does it work?

The Farming for Water project works by providing funding to farmers for the implementation of measures. A total of 43 measures have been designed to assist in the protection of water quality by reducing the impacts of pollutants such as nitrates, phosphorus and sediment with a further focus being placed on the reduction of pesticides into our watercourses. Farmers with the help of the advisor identify key target area’s where mitigation measures are required. These measures which go beyond regulatory requirements will assist in both maintaining and improving water quality across the country. Some of the measures available through the project include; • Riparian Margins • Bovine Fencing • Nutrient Management Planning • Tree Planting

Farming for Water Community Animator Aidan Suart presenting at an Information Event Held in May.

Next Steps This highly innovative project will continue to run until the end of 2026.

The availability of funding for additional mitigation measures on farms will assist in continuing the great work carried out by farmers in the Duhallow region.

There is great enthusiasm amongst farmers in the Duhallow region to continue the success of the Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot EIP and Owentaraglin EIP and the introduction of the Farming for Water EIP is a welcoming step in providing further improvements to water quality and enhancing biodiversity.

Local farmer John Walsh with IRD Duhallow’s Aidan Suart, Community Animator.

Events IRD Duhallow hosted an information event in June in the James O’Keeffe Institute. The event was attended by farmers from catchments across the Duhallow Region including the Allow and Owentaraglin catchments.

Farmers learned about the project, an overview was provided to the farmers on the project which included information on the measures

IRD Duhallow will continue to work alongside the farming community in Duhallow throughout this project in further developing the great work achieved to date by the community by liaising with farmers on the next steps that can be taken to further build on actions and measures completed to date.

The River Allow close to Freemount on a glorious summer’s day.

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Agriculture New Sustainability in Agriculture training programmes In 2023, after consultation with Kerry Agribusiness milk suppliers, IRD Duhallow Skillnet, co-funded and ran a pilot sustainable dairy training programme, which was delivered by University College Cork (UCC). The training programme ran online over nine weeks with one interactive inperson training day at UCC, and demand was such that a second programme was immediately required to facilitate interested participants.

Feedback from the course led to the programme being further developed into a fully accredited Level 7 Certificate in 2024 which will run again in 2025 along with a second and hopefully further modules.

This allows local milk suppliers to develop their knowledge, develop sustainability on their farms and gain a UCC accreditation in Sustainable Dairy Development.

Pictured at the launch of the newly developed Level 7 Certificate in Sustainable Dairy Development were: Monica Gilmore IRD Duhallow Skillnet, Mary Buckley Kerry Dairy Ireland, Belinda Gascoigne University College Cork, Zita McCarthy Kerry Dairy Ireland and Elizabeth O’Carroll Kerry Agribusiness.

Celebrating their graduation are the first group who completed the Level 7 Certificate in Sustainable Dairy Development pictured with Belinda Gascoigne and Dr. Séamus O'Tuama from UCC, Mary Buckley Communications Director Kerry Dairy Ireland, Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow and Monica Gilmore IRD Duhallow.

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Farming for Water EIP: Agricultural Community Animator Post IRD Duhallow successfully secured a competitive bid for one of five national Agricultural Community Animator posts in order to roll out the new Farming for Water EIP in the Duhallow region. This ground-breaking

and highly ambitious national EIP is led by LAWPRO in partnership with Teagasc and Dairy Industry Ireland nation-wide with a budget of €60 million, and the Agricultural Community Animator will work to communicate and promote the importance of good agricultural practices to protect and restore water quality in the Duhallow region, recruiting farmers into the project and showcasing areas of best practice building on all the work of IRD Duhallow’s project farmers throughout the two previous LIFE programme and both the Araglin and Allow EIP projects.

Duhallow Beekeepers: The Duhallow Beekeeper’s Association organised another successful series of lectures on beekeeping at the James O’Keeffe Institute in Newmarket for Spring 2025.

This course ran over three evenings, with very interesting presentations being delivered by Fr. James McSweeney and Mr. John Martin. The purpose of this project was to keep members up to date on the most modern aspects of beekeeping. The insights shared throughout the course will be of help to all attendees to keep their colonies strong Duhallow beekeepers at the Apiary at the JOK institute and thriving this year. Their learning will be further supported by the availability of the apiary space that was created on the grounds of James O’Keeffe Institute. This has provided a fantastic area for demonstration and teaching to new and experienced beekeepers.

Home Tree Changing Landscape Conference 2025: In May 2025, an inspiring event took place in Ennistymon Co Clare. The conference entitled Changing Landscapes – Beyond Good Intentions, bought together experts and practitioners to explore where opportunities and challenges exist in the area of ecological restoration.

The welcome address was delivered by Ray Ó Foghlú Development Lead at Hometree. Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow was a panellist at the conference and contributed to the discussion “What Actually Moves The Needle?”. Her fellow panellists included Fergal Anderson of Talamh Beo, Laura Costello of Thinkhouse, Christopher O’Keefe of M-Co and Peter Smyth of Broadlake. This solution focused panel discussion was a deep dive into the actions that can create tangible and meaningful progress in the area of ecological restoration. This full day event was rich with inspiration and insight, centred on transforming ambition into reality.

Farming a Look At The Year Ahead: In January 2025, Maura Walsh CEO of IRD Duhallow featured on the RTE Radio One Country Wide programme, alongside dairy farmer Thomas Duffy, Professor Yvonne Buckley who manages the co-centre for Climate and Biodiversity and Jack Kennedy, editor of the Farmer’s Journal.

Presented by Philip Boucher Hayes, this broad discussion looked at the potential challenges, opportunities and changes the year 2025 would bring. The panellists considered issues such as potential changes in CAP, the nitrates derogation, the next carbon budget, water quality pressures, sustainability and the nature restoration laws. The uptake, participation and interest in ambitious environmental initiatives delivered by IRD Duhallow were discussed as part of the programme.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Social Farming What is Duhallow Social Farming?

IRD Duhallow’s Social Farming Project is a voluntary, locally led, community-based initiative supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. It is inclusive of people with mental health conditions, people with physical or sensory disabilities, people who acquired a disability, people with intellectual disabilities, people with autism and those with hidden disabilities. Duhallow Social Farming operates as a voluntary model to enable real working relationships and friendships to develop.

opportunities and increasing their chances of progression opportunities. The Workability programme is ongoing and the participants are attending the IRD Duhallow Social Farm on Fridays.

Two of the participants volunteer their time to help with garden maintenance on their time off.

IRD Duhallow Community Gardens and Social Farm

Nathalie and Moira, Eduard and Mike planting tomatoes in the tunnel.

Host Farms Since the Social Farming programme was established in 2021 we have engaged with 10 host farms and 27 participants. The farms are not specialised treatment farms; they remain typical working farms where people in need of support can benefit from relationship building in a non-clinical environment.

Host Farmer Kathleen White with Tim and the Alpacas Duhallow Social Farming at Fine Oaks Alpaca Farm. aids in covering the costs of any health and safety adjustments that need to be made on the farm for social farming activities, as well as providing funding for relevant training opportunities. No two farms are the same, and inputs and measures that work on a dairy farm may not be applicable in a horticultural setting. Each participant is matched to the host farm depending on their own abilities and interests. Some participants require a support worker with them on the farm, whereas others are able to work and travel independently to and from the farm.

User Led and Person Centred It must be understood that every individual is different, with different needs, abilities and expectations. From the planning to placement the Social Farming project offers a comprehensive response, which takes into account the abilities of participants and capacity of host farmers to meet their individual needs. One of the guiding principles for the social farming project is that supports are tailored to individual need and are flexible, responsive and person-centred.

John, Denis, Patrick, Jack, Brian and Tomas sorting seeds in the Student Tunnel.

Participants from the Towards Occupation and Workability groups have been attending the IRD Duhallow Social Farm since the start of the programme.

The aim of TO is to facilitate and encourage those in the community who are very distant from the labour market, providing them with education and training

Gearoid, Social Farming Participant at Leonora and Denis’ farm in Newmarket.

Gearoid is a member of the Workability group and volunteer with IRD Duhallow Social Farm.

Patrick and Denis feeding Alpacas at the IRD Duhallow Social Farm Open Day.

The gardens and social farm here at James O’Keeffe Institute continue to offer a safe space for participants and biodiversity. We are growing a multitude of fruit, vegetables and pollinator friendly flowers for our resident bee hives. We now have 4 polytunnels so we can continue to grow together all year round. The latest addition is the large tunnel, pictured below. We have been busy weeding and feeding the soil with manure from the horses in the top field. We are installing a timed irrigation system to make sure plants have optimum growing conditions. Our CE Scheme participants are working hard preparing beds, sowing seeds and planting out. We are so grateful for the huge contribution they make.

Klaus Laitenberger speaking at the IRD Duhallow Social Farm Open Day, June 2024.

Volunteerism We are honoured to be chosen as one of Gileads Charity partners and look forward to welcoming them to volunteer each year. We have 4 garden volunteers from the local community helping in the gardens on Wednesday mornings.

Gilead team members with Towards Occupation participants, busy seed saving in autumn.

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Enterprise IRD Duhallow offers a comprehensive range of supports to enterprises in the Duhallow region. Through the LEADER Programme, businesses can access capital grants for equipment and business development. The IRD Duhallow Skillnet programme delivers subsidised, locally accessible training across all sectors, enhancing workforce skills and business competitiveness. Entrepreneurs can benefit from the Start Your Own Business Programme, tailored mentoring, and guidance on welfare-towork schemes like the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance. Additionally, the annual Duhallow Business Awards celebrate excellence among local enterprises, fostering community recognition and networking opportunities. These initiatives strengthen the region's economic resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.

IRD Duhallow Business Awards The 2024 Duhallow Business Awards celebrated excellence, innovation, and resilience among local businesses. Hosted by IRD Duhallow, the event recognised outstanding achievements across various sectors, highlighting the vital role businesses play in the region’s economic growth. The awards support entrepreneurship and showcase the talent and dedication driving success throughout the Duhallow area.

LEADER Programme The LEADER Programme at IRD Duhallow is key in supporting rural development and enterprise in the Duhallow region. Funded by the EU and the Department of Rural and Community Development, the programme provides financial and developmental assistance to local businesses, community groups, and social enterprises. It aims to stimulate economic activity, innovation, and enhance the quality of life in rural areas.

For businesses, LEADER funding offers a valuable opportunity to grow and diversify. Supports include capital grants for equipment or facility upgrades, feasibility studies, marketing and training services. These are particularly beneficial for micro and small enterprises in sectors like food production, tourism, and crafts. Through LEADER, IRD Duhallow also provides guidance with business planning, funding applications, and navigating regulatory requirements.

The programme places a strong emphasis on sustainability, job creation, and adding value to local resources. It encourages collaboration and community engagement, ensuring that development is tailored to the unique needs and potential of the Duhallow region. With a proven track record of success, the LEADER Programme at IRD Duhallow continues to be a vital driver of rural enterprise and innovation.

SICAP Supports IRD Duhallow, through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), offers vital supports to local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. These include one-to-one mentoring, business planning assistance, access to training, and guidance on funding opportunities.

The program focuses on promoting self-employment and enhancing entrepreneurial skills, particularly among disadvantaged groups. IRD Duhallow also facilitates networking events and workshops to build capacity and confidence among participants. Their tailored support helps individuals turn business ideas into viable enterprises, encouraging local economic development and job creation. By fostering inclusive entrepreneurship, SICAP plays a key role in empowering communities across the Duhallow region.

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The 2025 start your own business class celebrating the end of their programme which was run by tutor Ruth Cosgrave at IRD Duhallow through the SICAP programme.

The IRD Duhallow Business awards launch with Chairman of IRD Michael Twohig, CEO Maura Walsh, Enterprise Working Group Chairman Padraic O’Connell, Development Officers Louise Bourke and Monica Gilmore and MC Reggie.

IRD Duhallow Business Award Winners 2024: Award Category Best Overall Duhallow Business

Winner Ath Trasna Medical Centre

Best Emerging Business

The Sewing House

Best Established Business Joint Winners

Ashgrove Renewables Ath Trasna Medical Centre

Best in the Creative Industry

Moon Balloon

Best Women Led Business

Auntie Katie’s

Best Community Enterprise

Duhallow Community Food Services

Best Food Business

Toons Bridge Dairy

IRD Duhallow Vice Chairperson and Chairperson Anne Maria Bourke and Michael Twohig, MC Reggie, IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh, Chairperson of Enterprise Working Group Padraic O’Connell, and IRD Duhallow board member Cllr Fionnán Fitzgerald. FRONT: IRD Duhallow Team Leader Helen O’Sullivan and Development Officer Monica Gilmore, Dr. Bertie Daly and Zelie Gaffney of Ath Trasna Medical, IRD Duhallow Team Leader Triona Murphy, and IRD Duhallow Assistant CEO Eileen Linehan.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

IRD Duhallow Skillnet The IRD Duhallow Skillnet programme provides high-quality, subsidised training to businesses and employees across the Duhallow region.

Designed to upskill the local workforce, the programme offers a wide range of courses tailored to industry needs, including leadership, digital skills, health and safety, and technical training. By working closely with employers, IRD Duhallow Skillnet ensures that training is relevant, practical, and impactful. The programme supports all types of enterprises in enhancing productivity, innovation, and competitiveness. It also helps individuals improve their professional development, contributing to regional economic development. IRD Duhallow Skillnet is a key driver of lifelong learning and workforce development in the region.

Duhallow Skillnet Programmes Skillnet offers several programmes to support workforce development.

The Skills Connect programme helps to upskill jobseekers and career changers, ensuring a ready pipeline of skilled talent for businesses.

Duhallow Skillnet has run a number of Skills Connect Programmes including QQI Level 5 Healthcare Support and QQI Level 5 in Early Childhood Education as part of their Skills Connect programme.

Pictured are students from the Level 5 Healthcare and Level 5 Early Childhood Education classes which ran recently fully funded through the IRD Duhallow Skills Connect programme.

The Training Networks Programme (TNP) enables groups of companies to collaborate and develop industry-specific training solutions tailored to shared needs.

ESF+ (European Social Fund Plus) co-funds initiatives aimed at enhancing skills and employability, especially for disadvantaged groups.

This programme is co funded by The European Union and The Government of Ireland.

Cantillon Conference IRD Duhallow Skillnet were delighted to once again co-sponsor the MTU Cantillon Conference this year.

The 2025 Cantillon Conference, themed “Leadership Rewired”, Development Officer Monica Gilmore attended the 2025 MTU Cantillon Conference in Ballygarry Estate Hotel Tralee took place on February which was sponsored by IRD Duhallow Skillnet, Rural Food 13th at Ballygarry Estate Skillnet, South Kerry Skillnet, Southwest Gnó Skillnet and Hotel & Spa in Tralee.

Tech Alliance Skillnet.

This one-day event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and academics to explore innovative strategies for building resilient futures in business.

International Women’s Day - Mná Pause Brunch at IRD Duhallow On International Women’s Day 2025, women from all over the community gathered for Guest speakers at the Mná Pause Event to celebrate a special event dedicated International Women’s Day were: IRD Development officer to health, wellness, and Elmarie Young, CEO Maura Walsh, Guest Speakers Dr Máire empowerment.

IRD Cleary, Triona Casey, Kevina Reel, IRD Team Leader Helen O’Sullivan, IRD Assistant Manager Eileen Linehan, Duhallow hosted the Development Officer Monica Gilmore and Chair of the ‘Mná-Pause’ Brunch, a Duhallow Women’s forum Judy O’Leary. gathering designed to provide valuable insights and support for women navigating menopause.

The sold-out event took place at the James O’Keeffe Institute in Newmarket and was attended by over 70 women. Attendees heard from expert speakers who specialise in menopause and women’s health.

Recognition of learning 2025 On Friday the 20th of June we were delighted to welcome more than 200 people to our marquee to celebrate our course graduates at the 2025 Recognition of Learning ceremony. We were honoured to have special guest our local Minister Michael Moynihan TD in attendance to join the celebrations. The recognition of learning recognises the hard work and achievements of people who completed programmes from Duhallow Skillnet and many other programmes at IRD Duhallow, including Level 5 Healthcare Graduates, QQI Level 5, QQI Level 7 and QQI Level 8 Early Childhood Education and Care Graduates, Level 7 Sustainable Dairy Development Graduates and more.

These programmes benefit organisations by reducing training costs, improving staff capabilities, and supporting business innovation.

They offer flexible, high-quality learning aligned with labour market needs, allowing companies to remain competitive. By participating, employers can address skills gaps, retain talent, and contribute to a stronger, more adaptable workforce, all while availing of significant co-funding support.

Monica Gilmore was part of the discussion panel at a recent Skillnet Ireland Cluster meeting that discussed the ESF programme requirements.

25 Years of Skillnet Ireland In 2024, Skillnet Ireland celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a quartercentury of advancing workforce development across Ireland. Established in 1999 with just ten Business Networks, it has expanded to 70 networks and four national initiatives, supporting over 26,000 businesses and nearly 98,000 workers annually through tailored training programmes. The milestone was commemorated with a gala event which was attended by the team from IRD Duhallow, bringing together industry leaders and partners to reflect on Skillnet Ireland’s impact on upskilling and innovation.

Pictured at the 2025 Recognition of Learning Ceremony are Denis Galvin who completed the QQI Level 7 Certificate in Sustainable Dairy Development, Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow, Dave Flynn Director of Networks Skillnet Ireland, Belinda Gascoigne and Dr. Séamus O'Tuama UCC, Mary Buckley Communications Director Kerry Dairy Ireland, Johnny Doris Development Advisor Skillnet Ireland and Padraic O’Connell Chair of the IRD Enterprise Working Group.

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Rural Recreation Rural Recreation IRD Duhallow continues to support the strategic development of rural recreation across the region in order to help preserve and enhance our natural environment, thereby supporting and driving local economic growth. The outdoors plays a key role in health and wellbeing providing a wide variety of recreational opportunities and social interaction for people of all ages. IRD Duhallow’s Environment Working Group is guided by the objectives set out in the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023-2027 Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors. The strategy aims to protect our landscapes, habitats and built heritage by better planning where and how we develop outdoor recreation infrastructure by providing guidance on the process and practices for developing outdoor recreation infrastructure in a sustainable fashion. Given the cross-sectoral nature of rural recreation, IRD Duhallow adopts a strategic and coordinated approach by engaging with the relevant stakeholders including Landowners, Local Community Groups, Local Authorities, National Trails Office, Coillte, Fáilte Ireland, Sports Ireland, National Parks and Wildlife, Farming Organisations, Heritage Council etc.

Buttimer TD. Minister of State for Rural and Community Development, Charities and Transport. Together with local public representatives on the night, a huge crowd gathered in the centre of the village where the opening ceremony took place. Fr. Jim Kennelly PP. blessed the walk and then people were invited to complete the walk.

Mr. Jerry Buttimer Minister of State for Rural and Community Development Officially opening the Boherbue Looped walk

Colm O’ Connor, Rural Recreation Officer attending a meeting with the Department of Rural and Community Development and RROs from around the country;

Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) provides funding for the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure. It also provides support for the necessary repair, maintenance, enhancement or promotion of existing outdoor recreational infrastructure in rural areas across Ireland. The focus of ORIS is to support outdoor recreational infrastructure that not only provides an outlet for the communities in which they are situated but also delivers added value from a tourism perspective. With the assistance of ORIS, IRD Duhallow completed essential upgrade works to three walks in 2024/2025 including the Slyguddal Pass Phase 3, Boherbue Ditch Walk and the Glen River Walk, Banteer. Phase 1. It is important to note that the buy in from the local communities and landowners was of critical importance to the successful implementation of all these projects.

Before and after pictures of the Boherbue walk

Seating purchased and installed by IRD Duhallow through the Walks Scheme Development Fund at the Slyguddal Pass looking at the PAPS mountain

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Official Opening of the Boherbue looped walk Boherbue looped walk was officially opened on April 25th 2025 by Jerry

Cllr Bernard Moynihan with Patrick Fleming and Claire Barr Municipal District Officer Cork County Council completing the Boherbue walk after the Official opening

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Rural Recreation Walks Scheme The Walks Scheme was launched in 2008 to facilitate the development and maintenance of key walking trails by private landholders. The Scheme contracts the landholders, or their nominees, to undertake maintenance work on sections of National Waymarked Ways. IRD Duhallow manages the Walks Scheme for the Duhallow Blackwater Way. This encompasses an enchanting stretch of approximately 78 Kilometres extending from Clonkeen Church and Shrone Church North and South of the Paps Mountains in County Kerry to Bweeng Village in County Cork. We currently have 26 participants on the walks scheme and 6 more landowners will join following the successful application for an extension to the Duhallow way which was granted in May of this year. “Tough Soles” recently recommended the Duhallow Way as one of their top 5 Walking Trails in the Country at the Trails conference in Carrick on Shannon in September 2024.

Ensuring Standards and Quality Each year, Sport Ireland undertake inspections and compliance audits to all trails registered with Sports Ireland to maintain their insurance cover and to keep the walks up to standard. In September 2024, this audit was completed on the Duhallow Way. The highest marks to date were received and this is owing to the great work completed by landowners and our RSS and Tús participants along the trails,

Mark Britton, Inspector with Sports Ireland after auditing The Duhallow Way accompanied by Colm O Connor and Rhys McPhail, IRD Duhallow.

Organised Led Walks Monthly led walks are facilitated on trails throughout Duhallow from March to October to bring people together to explore their local trails, promote health and strengthen social connections.

These walks happen over sections of the Duhallow way and other looped walks across the region. These IRD Duhallow led walks are invaluable to the promotion of walking trails locally encouraging opportunities to engage in physical activity, connect with nature, and explore culture and heritage.

RSS Participant Neily Cronin doing repair work to The Duhallow Way

Fallen trees on the Duhallow way after Storm Ewyon

A group enjoying one of IRD Duhallow’s monthly led walks in the Island Wood

Beara Brifne Way The Beara-Breifne Way is Ireland’s longest national waymarked trail. It is unique in that it runs through all provinces of Ireland and covers eleven counties. It includes parts of the Beara Way, the Duhallow Way, the Suck Valley Way, the Miners Way, the Leitrim Way and the Cavan Way. The route has been created by local communities in a unique collaboration. It follows the legendary fourteen-day march taken by Dónal Cam O’Sullivan Beare and his one thousand supporters in 1603 and it visits many of the places and communities shaped by their story. 68% of the entire route is off-road with a recommendation that this should be 90%. IRD Duhallow is focused on developing the route from Ballyvourney through IRD Duhallow’s catchment area to Liscarroll following the course of the rivers (where possible). The CEO of IRD Duhallow, Maura Walsh currently sits on the Failte Ireland Beara Breifne Way Working Group. Significant investment is required to increase the percentage of the route off-road.

One of the main issues raised for the North West Way Section of the Beara Brifne Way in the Failte Ireland Trails Audit (2023) was the high percentage of on-road walking and the knock on lack of interest in terms of trail variety and landscape as a result. The development of the Bear Breifne Way Trail has the potential to add huge value to the region and once the route is developed, the project will support increased recreational opportunities connecting people, communities and the countryside.

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Tourism The Wells of Duhallow Duhallow offers visitors a unique glimpse into Ireland’s spiritual and cultural heritage through its many holy wells. Tubrid Well near Millstreet, one of Ireland’s largest, known for its peaceful setting and rich history.

Dedicated to St. Ita, the well draws pilgrims and tourists alike, especially on Pattern Day, May 26th. Other scenic sites include St. John’s Well in the Mushera Hills, with panoramic views and gatherings on June 23rd for St. John’s Eve, St. Laitiaran’s Well in Cullen, Inghne Buidhne in Dromtarriffe, St. Berecherts’ Holy Well, Tullylease and Trinity Well, Newmarket. IRD Duhallow produced a booklet on holy wells in Duhallow some years ago and it’s a great resource to have for visitors and locals interested in learning about these holy wells.

winners. Mass was celebrated for Maurice O’Keeffe and deceased Sliabh Luachra musicians with traditional musicians providing the music.

Kiskeam Brass Band were also in attendance, playing a wonderful recital in the church grounds.

Maurice O’Keeffe Perpetual Cup winner Olivia Tarrant Ballydesmond. Olivia & her brother Arthur won the Maurice O’Keeffe Duet Shield at the 24th year of the festival.

Tubrid Well near Millstreet, one of Ireland’s largest, known for its peaceful setting and rich history.

Walkways of Duhallow Duhallow offers a variety of scenic walks ideal for tourists and nature enthusiasts. From riverside strolls along the Blackwater Way to the tranquil trails on Mount Hilary, the region brims with natural beauty and rich heritage. Visitors can explore ancient woodland paths, spot native wildlife, and enjoy panoramic views. The newly developed Boherbue Loop and the Mount Hillary trails offer gentle terrain, while more adventurous hikers will enjoy the challenge of Mushera Mountain. Duhallow’s trails are not only routes through stunning landscapes but also journeys through local history, folklore, and rural charm.

The Gathering Weekend Rockchapel: Rockchapel village was a hive of activity from June 6th to 8th with the much-anticipated Rockchapel Gathering weekend. The weekend commenced with folk band Tully taking to the stage in Bruach na Carraige, with the talented McAuliffe family opening proceedings. A delightful ‘Community Cuppa’ event took place on Saturday. The weekend also saw wonderful music, singing and children’s sessions. There was a full house for “The Three Counties” variety show event, with Cork, Kerry and Limerick teams being ably led out by their respective captains. On Sunday another day of family friendly events ensued, with a craft fair, Animal Roadshow, a children’s tractor run, facepainting and art exhibition.

The weekend culminated with lively performances from the bands Up in Smoke and The Rising.

Cork Rose Nancy Lehane takes to the stage with Eily Mai Hickey team leader and the winning Cork team at the Three Counties Challenge competition which was part of the Gathering Weekend Rockchapel.

Senator Eileen Lynch enjoys the Boherbue Loop Walk with IRD Duhallow staff members Colm O’Connor, Helen O’Sullivan and Martina Enright.

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Maurice O’Keeffe Sliabh Luachra Traditional Music Festival 2025: April 2025 saw a great schedule of events for the 24th Maurice O’Keeffe Festival which honours the legacy of the renowned fiddler and the distinctive Sliabh Luachra musical tradition. There was a stellar line up of musicians in attendance with three performers TG4 Gradam Ceoil recipients. The festival saw music sessions take place in Kiskeam and Ballydesmond showcasing the skills of seasoned musicians and emerging talent. A céilí was also organised in Ballydesmond Hall. Youth fiddle and duet competitions were organised in Kiskeam Community Centre with the Maurice O’Keeffe Perpetual Cup awarded to the overall Fiddle Competition winner, and the Perpetual Shield to the Duet Competition

Kiskeam Set Dancers, with their Teachers Elisha and Ellen Daly, took part in the Maurice O’ Keeffe Traditional Music Concert in Kiskeam.

Some wonderful music sessions were held during the Gathering Weekend in Rockchapel.

Newmarket Pitch & Putt Celebrating 10 years since it was redeveloped and reopened in 2015 Newmarket Pitch & Putt course is looking better than ever. This state of the art 18-hole course which was funded under the LEADER Programme welcomes many visitors annually and its greens are busy during the Lenora Kelly & Colm Crowley of IRD Duhallow with locals summer season. The club who participated in the taster session with Newmarket welcomes other pitch & Pitch & Putt committee this May. putt clubs on club days out who enjoy a round on this well-designed course. As part of Bealtaine 2025 the committee offered taster sessions to those interested in trying their hand at pitch & putt with many now becoming regular visitors to the course.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Culture & Heritage Heritage Week 2024: In 2024 IRD Duhallow was delighted to participate in Heritage Week. As part of this event a series of videos recorded for the LEADER Historic Graves training project were released online. Built over time, the series offers a treasure trove of historical stories relating to graveyards throughout Duhallow. The project was curated by tutor, John Tierney and the videos received thousands of views. Among the recordings broadcast during Heritage Week were “The Man From God Knows Where” recited

by John Joe Kavanagh, “The Men of the South” presented by Sheila O’Sullivan and Jimmy Cashman, “The Kilmacow Drum” delivered by Catherine Hannigan, “Old Drishane Graveyard” delivered by Sean Radley, “Roger Kiely of Cullen” presented by Christy Lehane, “The Healing Priest of Kilcorney” presented by Dan Joe O’Keeffe, “Executions in Tullylease” delivered by Nioclás O’Rinn, Sheila O’Keeffe and Mike Larkin, and “Meenganine” recited by Johnny Walsh. For anyone who missed this event and would like to see the videos the recordings listed here are available to view on the IRD Duhallow YouTube channel.

Catherine Hannigan’s recording on the Kilmacow Drum was aired as part of Heritage Week 2024.

Boherbue Set Dancing Club: Boherbue Dancing Club has a proud tradition of competitive Irish dancing, spanning for over 30 years.

The club has grown tremendously since re-establishing since the COVID-19 pandemic, with membership derived from many places in the Duhallow region. The Boherbue Dancing Group who groups under 12 dancers are at the received SICAP funding for the heart of this growth. Therefore, the purchase of new uniforms. club applied for grant assistance under the SICAP Programme, for a grant towards funding some of the costs attached to acquiring new costumes. These costumes are directly benefiting young dancers as they grow in skill, representing their club.

Cullen Pipe Band: One of Duhallow’s three pipe bands, Cullen Pipe Band was founded in 1941. Since this time, they have given many hours of listening pleasure to the people of Duhallow, Munster and beyond including Europe and the USA. They have been a familiar sight at countless cultural and sporting

Cullen Pipe Band clinched the title of Best Pipe Corps in Grade 4A at the All-Ireland Pipe Band Championships in 2024. The prestigious competition took place at Newbridge House and Gardens, Donabate, Co. Dublin. Cullen’s exceptional performance secured them third place overall, earning them the Martin Dempsey Trophy.

engagements over the decades. Cullen Pipe Band take pride in the tradition of high standard musical tuition in the region. Band members are distinguished in both group and solo performances. Cullen Pipe Band successfully applied for support to upgrade their equipment and uniforms under LEADER 2023-2027. This funding will support the band with their performances and enable the continuation of their wonderful musical recitals into the future.

Duhallow Heritage Centres: IRD Duhallow recognises the unique roles that heritage groups play in preserving the heritage and culture of the Duhallow region. It is wonderful to see the array of events that are taking place in An Culturlann Newmarket, Burach Na Carraige Rockchapel, Laharn Cross, Freemount, Foilogohig and Banteer. In June, Aubane Social Club celebrated its 50th anniversary. Having been in existence since 1912, in 1974 the national school in Aubane was closed due to falling numbers. The setting up of Aubane Social Club soon followed in 1975 with a dedicated group pursuing the aim of converting the school into a community centre. Since this time Aubane Social Club has seen diverse social, cultural and recreational activities with patrons from North Cork, Mid-Cork and East Kerry and beyond attending the many events held down through the years. Accommodating all age groups, children’s movie nights and seasonal events are a part of their annual programme of activities. Always forward thinking, under the LEADER 2014-2020 Programme, the group accessed funding for ICT equipment as the centre became a national broadband connection point. The 50th Anniversary Celebrations included céilí music, a talk on the group’s achievements by Jack Lane, dancing, barbeque, children’s activities and tree planting ceremony.

Congratulations to Aubane Social Club on their milestone celebrations.

John Dineen planted the official tree marking the recent 50th Anniversary of Aubane Community Centre followed by an afternoon of celebration in June.

Also included are (from left): Paddy Murphy, Kathleen Kelleher, Noreen Kelleher, John F. Kelleher, Denis Kelleher and Gerdi Buckley.

Local historian Jack Lane delivered a truly inspiring talk to a very appreciative audience at Aubane Community Centre.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

LEADER In Duhallow LEADER 2014-2020 In the past twelve months, IRD Duhallow has started the roll out of the LEADER 23-27 programme across Duhallow. We are now an independent LAG across North Cork and South Cork with a collective project budget of €2.1m.

The inaugural IRD Duhallow North Cork LAG meetings took place in November 2024 with Bweeng Running Track being the first project to be approved with a grant of €100,000 and Knocknagree Community Hall a grant of €44k. In December 2024 the first IRD Duhallow South Cork project was approved for Nature Calendars.

To date, just 7 month into the programme, IRD Duhallow has committed close to 20% of its project budget.

• Local Action Group The people who were previously the passive 'beneficiaries' of a policy become active partners and drivers of their area's development; this is a defining characteristic of Community-Led Local Development The involvement of local actors should be fair and transparent including the population at large, economic, civic and social interest groups and representative public and private institutions. The added value of this approach is associated with local empowerment through local strategy development, delivery and resource allocation where no one interest group can have a majority.

• Innovation: giving LAGs the flexibility to introduce new ideas and new methods, taking on new programmes to augment and address all aspects of development.

• Integration: between economic, social, cultural and environmental actions, as distinct from sectoral development approaches. All LEADER themes and sub themes must be included as well as integrated programmes for the benefit of the area.

• Networking: enabling sharing and learning among people, organisations and institutions at local, regional, national and European levels.

• Co-operation: among LEADER groups and other Actors, to share experiences, allow complementarity or to achieve critical mass.

LEADER Cooperation is well recognised as an ideal tool to promote cohesion across rural Europe.

Minister Jerry Buttimer with members of Knocknagree Community Development CLG at the signing of their LEADER contract with Deputy John Paul O’Shea, Cllr Trish Murphy, and IRD Duhallow Chair, Michael Twohig, CEO Maura Walsh and Assistant CEO, Eileen Linehan

The LEADER Ethos In IRD Duhallow, we still hold firm on the seven specificities of LEADER as being the most successful way of finding solutions to local problems and empowering communities to become vibrant rural areas; A Living Countryside.

An aerial view of the progress on the LEADER funded Bweeng running track.

LEADER Operating Rules Our CEO Maura Walsh sits on the Operating Rules group with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. The rules of the programme have remained as stringent as ever, despite the budget being 25% of what it was in the 07-13 time period. Many rules pose challenges

Development Officer Ciaran Carmody speaking with Niamh Brosnan and John O’Connor about the proposed plans for a Playground in Meelin at the LEADER information session

LEADER is defined by its 7 Specific Features: • Area-based: Natural Area of Development, small enough to be cohesive but large enough to allow development occur, not aligned to municipal or other political boundaries.

• Bottom-up: Local people are the best experts to drive the development of their area. This bottom-up approach means that the local community and local players can help define a development pathway for their area consistent with their needs, expectations and plans. This bottom-up approach is enshrined in the EU regulations.

22

Maura Walsh facilitates an operating rules group breakout session at a National LEADER Managers meeting

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

LEADER In Duhallow for local communities and IRD Duhallow continues to advocate for relaxation of the rules, to ensure they are appropriate to the levels of funding available. We have been working with the Department and our colleagues in LDCD on these issues.

Rules whereby promoters have to prove the ability to pay out a project in total while simultaneously stating a project won’t go ahead without LEADER funding are contradictory and stifles the LEADER approach significantly.

LEADER Information Events across Duhallow IRD Duhallow held two information events in September last year to launch the LEADER Programme. The IRD Duhallow North Cork LAG meeting was held in our offices in the JOK institute Newmarket and the IRD Duhallow South Cork LAG meeting was held in the Castle Hotel Macroom. Both events were well attended by local organisations, business people and the farming community. Following a presentation on the operating rules of the programme delivered by Eileen Linehan, our staff were present at both events to help promoters to fill up expression of interest forms and provide literature and support around the programme.

Local Development Companies CEOs at the launch of the LDCN in Dublin with Minister Jerry Buttimer and LDCN staff.

Following this, the first closed call of the programme was announced in December 2024 under the Economic Development and Job Creation – Enterprise Development Sub theme for both North and South Cork areas.

Following these calls, 3 local enterprise projects have been committed €82k.

Local Development Companies Network – LDCN Formerly known as ILDN, the network for local development companies has been rebranded from ILDN to LDCN. LDCN is a strong representative voice for all local development companies and works at addressing systemic IRD Duhallow Maura Walsh at the launch of the Local issues at a national Development Companies Network with Minister Jerry level. The network Buttimer, MEP Marian Harkin and Deputy John Paul O’ Shea. represents 45 of the 49 local development companies across the country including IRD Duhallow.

Minister Jerry Buttimer at the recent rebrand launch in Buswell’s Hotel in Dublin and he stressed the importance of community development and helping the most marginalised, and vulnerable in society.

Minister Daragh Calleary at the launch of LCDN in Buswells Hotel Dublin with CEO’s , John Feerick, Sligo Leader Partnership, Chris Gonley, Leitrim Development Company and Maura Walsh, IRD Duhallow.

IRD DUHALLOW North Cork 2023-2027 % Aid PROMOTER Rural Tourism & Recreation 75% IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group Enterprise Development 75% Duhallow Physiotherapy Rural Food 75% DCFS Rural Infrastructure 75% Cullen Pipe Band 46% Bweeng Running Track 75% Knocknagree Community Hall Rural Youth 70% Kanturk RFC Ballydesmond Community Walkway Climate Change & Capacity Building 90% IRD Duhallow Environmental Working Group Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation 90% IRD Duhallow Environmental Working Group Project Total Committed

PROJECT NAME

GRANT COMMITTED €

Day of the Regions

30,000.00

Reformer Pilates Beds

14,688.00

Additional Space for Rural Meals

50,250.00

Purchase of musical instruments, materials and uniforms Groundworks for new running track Equipment for new Community Hall

14,579.00 100,000.00 33,600.00

Clubhouse Renovations Footpath Linking Pocket Park

50,000.00 33,450.00

Nature Calendars 25-28

8,644.00

Owentaraglin Fluvial Geomorpholgy

10,800.00 346,011.00

IRD DUHALLOW South Cork 2023-2027 % Aid PROMOTER Rural Tourism & Recreation 75% IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group Enterprise Development 75% Si Pilates 75% Toonsbridge Dairy Ltd. 75% Munster Drones Climate Change & Capacity Building 90% IRD Duhallow Environmental Working Group Project Total Committed

PROJECT NAME

GRANT COMMITTED €

Day of the Regions

30,000.00

Reformer Pilates Beds Investment in production areas Purchase equipment for surveying

9,244.00 57,653.00 73,547.00

Nature Calendars 25-28

8,644.00 179,088.00

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Communicating Europe In recent years, the Communicating Europe Initiative has brought together people of all ages and walks of life to learn more about the European Union. Building on this work, IRD Duhallow successfully applied to the Department of Foreign Affairs in 2024, for funding to deliver additional activities. Activities commenced in May 2024, with the publication of an information resource in the free to take away Discover Duhallow magazine. This outlined the specifics of the European Parliament elections within an Irish context, and the importance of voting.

In Autumn 2024 Second level students from six Duhallow schools, Scoil Mhuire Kanturk, Coláiste Treasa Kanturk, Millstreet Community School, Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra Rathmore, Boherbue Comprehensive School and St Mary’s Secondary School, Macroom began to participate in locally organised events. Interactive group workshops were held in schools throughout the Duhallow Region. Delivered by geographer and social scientist Dr. Brendan O’Keeffe, highly engaging activities were specifically designed to involve students in a bespoke learning experience which detailed the evolution of the European Union. These covered the national, local, regional and historic impacts of Ireland’s EU membership especially in relation to rural development. Supporting information was provided to the students including a visual presentation of some key projects delivered specifically benefitting local youth and communities. Local projects funded through EU funds were a feature of these workshops, and the student groups heard about the impact of the LEADER and SICAP programmes, as well as EU LIFE. In total 536 students benefitted from the project across the 6 participating schools. This number includes TY students, Junior Cert students and students attending special classes. In the case of St. Mary’s Macroom, 10 of the students were travelling to Strasburg as part of the Euroscola Programme. These students had a bespoke workshop delivered to them, by Dr O’Keeffe, which specifically dealt with some of the items on the agenda for their trip.

TY student in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra Rathmore along with their teacher Miriam O’Regan were delighted to engage with Dr. Brendan O’Caoimh as part of Communicating Europe workshops in the Duhallow Region.

In 2025 Duhallow schools were highly privileged to enjoy visits from three MEPs for Ireland South in 2025. In January, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú visited Boherbue Comprehensive School where she met with students attending the special unit, along with Junior Certificate students and staff members including Ms. Vera Leader Principal and DJ McSweeney Deputy Principal. Later in the day she travelled to St. Mary’s School Macroom where she was greeted by School Principal Stephen McLaughlin, TY CoOrdinator Sean O’Cuill along with Aindrias Moynihan T.D. Ms. Ní Mhurchú also met with a group of St. Mary’s students who were travelling to Strasbourg to visit the EU parliament under the Euroscola Programme.

Through broad-spectrum presentations, students were encouraged to develop a clearer understanding of how European policies influence both Ireland and their own local communities. With a view to empowering young people with awareness, students in both schools heard about the opportunities that exist for young people within the EU including educational programmes and potential career pathways in the European Institutions.

24

Cynthia Ni Mhurchú is welcomed to Boherbue Comprehensive School by Ms. Vera Leader Principal, Student Aaron Buckley, along with Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow.

Cynthia Ni Mhurchú MEP St. Mary’s School Macroom and met their Transition Year group.

Pictured here are Aindrias Moynihan T.D. School Principal Stephen McLaughlin, Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow, Nollaig Murphy IRD Duhallow, Sean O’Cuill TY Coordinator along with the Euroscola student group preparing to visit Strasbourg.

In February Kanturk schools were delighted to welcome Billy Kelleher M.E.P. who visited both schools in the town. Mr. Kelleher first visited Scoil Mhuire where he received a very warm welcome from Principal Mr. Denis Keating, Deputy Principal Garvan Queeney and the TY group along with their co-ordinator Mr. Gerald Crotty. In Coláiste Treasa Mr. Kelleher met with another group of TY students along with Ms. Veronica Walsh Principal, Ms. Joanne Corkery Deputy Principal and TY Co-Ordinator Ms. Anne Marie Griffin. In each of the schools, students demonstrated their interest in current affairs and European issues through their attentive listening and dialogue. The students heard about the challenges facing the European Union and the global changes that are ongoing. Mr Kelleher spoke to the students in relation to the role of the EU in world politics, agriculture and trade. Wonderful engagement was shown during the school visits, with Mr. Kelleher encouraging students to be active citizens and to take great interest in European affairs.

Billy Kelleher MEP meets with Transition Year Students in Scoil Mhuire Secondary School Kanturk.

Also pictured are Mr. Denis Keating School Principal, Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow and Nollaig Murphy and Lenora Kelly Development Officers.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Communicating Europe

Billy Kelleher MEP visits Transition Year Students in Coláiste Treasa Kanturk. Included are Ms. Veronica Walsh, Principal, Ms. Joanne Corkery Deputy Principal, Ms. Anne Marie Griffin TY CoOrdinator, Students Cillian Collins and Rosemarie Moynihan, along with Maura Walsh, Nollaig Murphy and Lenora Kelly of IRD Duhallow.

In March Seán Kelly MEP visited Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra Rathmore where he received a very warm welcome from Transition Year Students and their co-ordinator Ms. Miriam O’Regan. In Millstreet Community School Mr. Kelly met with their Transition Year Group along with Principal Pol O’Síodhcháin, Deputy Principal Frances Moynihan and Mr. Shane Guerin TY Co-Ordinator. In both schools’ students heard about Mr Kelly’s policy-related work within the committees of the European Parliament and projects concerning climate change, and renewable energy sources.

Mr Kelly spoke to the schools about the ‘Fit for 55’ initiative, which involves the EU’s commitment to reduce its net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by the year 2030. Students also learned about 50 years of Irish EU membership and the changes that have occurred during this period, especially in relation to rural development. Mr. Kelly also visited the James O’Keeffe Memorial Institute, where he toured the complex and met with IRD Duhallow Chairperson Mr. Michael Twohig, Vice-Chairperson AnneMaria Bourke and CEO Maura Walsh, hearing about ongoing initiatives and gaining valuable insights into the impact of the project work IRD Duhallow is undertaking on the ground. Mr. Kelly also met with some project participants, listening to their experiences and learning more about the various programme activities they are involved in.

Seán Kelly MEP meets Pól O’ Siodhcháin Principal, Frances Moynihan Deputy Principal, Shane Guerin TY Co-Ordinator and Third Year and Transition students in Millstreet Community School.

Also pictured are Maura Walsh, Nollaig Murphy and Lenora Kelly of IRD Duhallow.

Duhallow Offices in Newmarket. Here, they were each provided with an outline of the broad range of programmes that are currently operating in the region and the impacts being achieved. For over thirty years, IRD Duhallow has been delivering EU-funded programmes in the Duhallow area including successive LEADER programmes, two EU LIFE programmes and several other initiatives. Each of the MEPs expressed a great deal of interest in the project work that is ongoing, and the application of the LEADER methodology.

Project Participant Daniel O’Loughlin presents Seán Kelly MEP with a sample of his baking during his visit to the James O’Keeffe Memorial Institute.

Student Tommy O’Connor meets Seán Kelly MEP on his visit to Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, also pictured are Miriam O’Regan TY Co-Ordinator, and Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow and Nollaig Murphy Development Officer.

While in the Duhallow area each of the visiting MEPs took time to stop by the James O’Keeffe Memorial Institute Complex, Duhallow Community Foods Services, Duhallow Furniture Revamp and IRD

Therése Walsh of REVAMP shows Cynthia Ní Mhurchú a sample of a restoration project undertaken at the social enterprise workshop in Newmarket.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

SICAP SICAP is a social inclusion programme focussed on the most marginalised people. It aims to tackle poverty and social exclusion through community development approaches, local engagement, and partnership between disadvantaged individuals, community organisations and public sector agencies operates across IRD Duhallow’s territory. SICAP is a targeted, holistic programme for those less likely to use mainstream services, which provides supports directly to beneficiaries and links them into existing services aiming to ensure that beneficiaries receive quality, tailored supports, while also allowing flexibility to adapt actions to local need. SICAP has two programme Goals, which are accompanied by core areas of work, objectives, outcomes, and thematic focus areas. SICAP’s aim, objectives and horizontal themes span all 17 of the Sustainable Development Goals. The Sustainable Development Goals are an urgent call for action by all countries recognising that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth all while tackling climate change. The SICAP programme is funded and designed by the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD), with co-funding from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) under the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021-2027.

Development Officer Lenora Kelly with Western Duhallow Mens Shed who received €2000 SICAP funding towards their new shed which is based in Kiskeam.

ACTION

CORK

KERRY

Goal 1

€

€

4,696.35 3,139.92 1,556.43 1,388.27 380.00 1,008.27

2,007.81 1,516.30 491.51 340.00 120.00

Action 1 Stakeholder Engagement IRD Duhallow Newsletter Discover Duhallow Action 2 Inclusive Community Engagement Expansion of Beekepers Education/Demo Apiary and Lectures Bweeng Youth Club Job Centre Action 3 Empowerment of 'Hard to Reach' Community Groups Care Alliance Membership Kanturk Bridge Club - purchase of scoring tablets Meetings Start up equipment for Freemount Women's Shed Saoi Network Kerry Community Awards Action 4 Collaborative Networks Internation Women's Day Event Meetings Bealtaine National Womens Council Action 5 Integration of New Communities Intercultural Training Event Multicultural Christmas 2024 Action 6 Community and Social Enterprise Boherbue Mens Shed Christmas Lights Kanturk Mens Shed Book Project Barna Bog Publication Rathmore Social Action Group Total Goal 1 Budget

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3,172.81 19.00 1,500.00 122.72 881.49 649.60 1,495.71 353.21 112.87 915.63 114.00 762.09 95.00 667.09 2,432.56 1,869.60 562.96

13,947.79

220.00 1,140.94 6.00 24.54 110.40 1,000.00 485.55 111.54 35.64 302.37 36.00 240.66 30.00 210.66 1,832.00

ACTION Goal 2 Action 7 Connecting Youth Provision Public Speaking Addiction and Mental Health Event Career's Exhibition Dyslexia workshop Parenting Your Teen Action 8 Community Education & Life long learning Stress Management Expansion of Beekepers Education/Demo Apiary and Lectures Mindfulness Course Personal Effectiveness Publication of Spring Summer Training Booklet 2024 Beginners and Intermediate Sewing Beginners Computers Digital Skills Sustainabilty Seminar Women's wellbeing project Action 9 Disability & Mental Health Comm Inclusion TO Spring Programme TO Winter Programme Action 10 Labour Market Activation Ayrton Safe Pass Course Forklift Training Course ATV Quad Bike Training Autumn/Winter Training Brochure Customer Service Training First Aid Training Action 11 Job Centre Newspapers Emotional Support for Job Seekers Action 12 Self Employment Business Mentoring Deliver Two SYOB Training Programmes Action 13 Supporting Disadvantaged Children & Families Literacy and TTRS Programme Christmas Cookery for children Action 14 Adult & Second Chance Education Caroline Shire Tracy O Asemota Total Goal 2 Budget Action 15 Ukranian Support Ukrainian Drop In Clinics 2024 Manual Handling Course Ukrainian Easter Programme Publication of Spring Summer Training Booklet 2024 Summer Programme 2024 Ukrainian Well Being Programme Youth Day Project Bespoke English Language Programme Integration through Sport Barista and customer care Forklift Training Course Winter Multicultural Programme Kanturk Printers Training Booklets Multicultural Christmas event Linn Gorm Community Centre Integration Project Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra Ukrainian Drop In Programme Rathmore Total Ukrainian Support

CORK € 3,752.16 1,341.41 1,668.15 533.60 190.00 19.00 8,499.22 250.80 435.48 988.00 1,748.00 501.74 2,014.00 1,174.20 1,182.75 204.25 4,646.29 2,724.60 1,921.69 8,766.39 3,842.56 1,200.80 1,254.00 385.86 909.72 1,173.45 3,352.99 298.76 3,054.23 4,640.10 1,448.10 3,192.00 5,206.00 4,674.00 532.00 750.00 250.00 500.00 39,613.14 17,598.43 2,587.40 85.72 1,280.00 218.12 1,996.03 397.50 552.00 3,739.20 1,513.11 148.34 899.99 1,701.93

KERRY € 1,184.89 423.60 526.79 168.50 60.00 6.00 3,823.97 79.21 137.52 312.00 552.00 158.44 636.00 370.80 373.50 64.50 1,140.00 1,340.82 860.40 480.42 2,768.33 1,213.44 379.20 396.00 121.85 287.28 370.56 1,510.00 94.34 1,415.66 1,262.40 254.40 1,008.00 1,644.00 1,476.00 168.00 0.00

13,534.42 4,074.27

630.33

1180.8

434.095 68.88

2,479.09

17,598.43

11.28 1696.6 52.28 4,074.27

924.00 908.00 6,046.96

Triona Dennehy, IRD Duhallow, Terry Hyland, CEO, Cavan County Local Development Company, Michelle Mullally, LDCN and Philip O’Donnell, LDCN, attending the Social Inclusion Forum meeting in Tullamore.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Afterschools Since opening its doors in 2005, IRD Duhallow Newmarket Afterschools has provided huge support for families across Newmarket and the wider Duhallow region. Now entering its 20th year, the service remains steadfast in its mission: to provide a secure, welcoming, and stimulating environment that supports the social, emotional, and cognitive development of every child.

Enjoying their baking at the Newmarket Afterschools as a part of life skills learning.

Comprehensive Care: Breakfast to Evening Children are collected daily from Newmarket Boys and Girls National Schools, ensuring a seamless and safe transition from school to the service. The day begins with our Breakfast Club, operating from 7:00am to 9:00am, where children can unwind in our sensory/chillax room, enjoy games and quiet activities, and have a nourishing breakfast before being brought to school. This early support Staff Elmira, Bernie, Sinead & Daryna with some of the children who regularly attend the Breakfast Club & allows parents to meet work Afterschools. commitments with peace of mind.

Sports is an integral part of the children’s development.

Pictured at our newly developed pitch on site.

In the afternoons, children are welcomed into a supportive space where they are served a nutritious dinner provided by Duhallow Community Food Services. Following their meal, children receive homework support from experienced staff – a core element of our service that particularly benefits some families facing barriers to online learning or academic resources at home.

Activities for Holistic Development Afterschool time is child-led and rich with opportunity. Children choose from activities such as: • STEM and STEAM learning • Art and baking • Pitch and putt • Outdoor play • Nature walks around the James O’Keeffe grounds • Free, unstructured play – vital for decompressing after a structured school day

Natural Playground Our natural playground, designed and developed with children’s input, continues to be a vibrant space for physical, social, and imaginative play.

Surrounded by fruit trees, flowers, and a willow arch, it invites children to connect with nature while developing their motor skills and creativity. The new playground amenities help our ethos of learning through exploration and environmental stewardship. More recently we have added a small football pitch to our facility which the children are thrilled to use.

Camps That Spark Curiosity Our popular camps run throughout school holidays – Easter, summer and Halloween with engaging and educational themes such as: • Little Chefs and Artists – combining culinary skills with creative projects • Nature Detectives – outdoor exploration led by our Environment team, including river kick sampling and wildlife discovery • Whizz Kids – a blend of STEM, Bernie O’Connor leads the way on a nature literacy games, and TTRS in the walk on the grounds of the James O’Keeffe computer lab, especially beneficial Complex. for children with dyslexia • Spooktacular Halloween and Egg-citing Easter camps – festive fun with themed learning and activities These camps are open to all children, not just those enrolled in the Afterschools programme, making them an inclusive resource for the wider community.

Commitment to Accessibility We proudly participate in the National Childcare Scheme (NCS). As of September 2024, the universal subsidy has increased from €1.40 to €2.14 per hour, making our Afterschools, Breakfast Club, and Camps even more affordable for families. This non-means-tested extends to children aged 3 to 15, Giving the Thumbs Up! The children enjoying their reducing financial barriers to science experiment day at Newmarket Afterschools. quality childcare. Furthermore, there is a means tested support, to aid families who be eligible to benefit from a higher subsidy payment.

A Cornerstone for Local Families At its core, IRD Duhallow Newmarket Afterschools remains more than just a school age childcare facility. It is a community hub that provides educational support, nurtures creativity, and promotes well-being.

Coordinated by Bernie State of the Art facilities on the grounds of the James O’Keeffe O’Connor with her Complex solely for Newmarket Afterschools children. colleagues Daryna, Elmira and Sinead, parents are reassured that this team deliver a reliable and efficient service.

For working parents, those returning to education or employment, and families needing additional support with homework or literacy, it is a lifeline - a space where children thrive and families are strengthened.

The children hanging out and having fun in our outdoor playground.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Community Development IRD Duhallow continues to champion resilience, inclusion, and social cohesion across the region. Grounded in the values of participation, empowerment, and sustainability, our work this year focused on enabling local communities to take an active role in shaping their own futures.

Volunteers remain the backbone of rural and community development and IRD Duhallow provides the practical tools to help them turn their ideas into tangible projects. Development Officers work closely with communities to identify local challenges, co-design responses and navigate complex procurement and funding guidelines.

LEADER Information Sessions

Michael O’Regan and Michelle Green of Freemount Community discussing potential LEADER projects for their community with Maggie O’Callaghan of IRD Duhallow Clg.

Participative Democracy

Triona Dennehy, IRD Duhallow with Fergal O’Sullivan discussing the proposed Community Walkway in Ballydesmond at the LEADER information session.

The process of ongoing active consultation and capacity building is engrained in IRD Duhallow’s approach to Community Led Local Development. IRD Duhallow hosted LEADER consultation events in the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket and in the Castle Hotel, Macroom in October 2023. Assistant Manager, Eileen Linehan gave a presentation on the new LEADER 2023-2027 programme and the operating/procurement guidelines. Staff were there to provide one to one support in answering questions and supporting communities and businesses in developing their project ideas. Development Officers emphasised the importance of preparing robust project proposals that align with IRD Duhallow’s Local Development Strategies. IRD Duhallow’s Local Development Strategies are very much responsive living documents and IRD Duhallow will continue to consult, monitor and review at regular intervals during the implementation of the LEADER 2023-2027 programme.

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Triona Dennehy, IRD Duhallow conducting a LEADER project site assessment visit on the “Island” in Inchigeelagh with Tim Ní Laoire, Croi na Laoi.

Freemount Women's Shed is part of a growing national movement addressing social isolation and mental health issues among women. With over 100 members, they were supported with a SICAP small scale equipment grant in 2024.

The Board of IRD Duhallow has a balanced multi stakeholder involvement consisting of 26 members drawn from the public, private, community & voluntary sectors. Eight community representatives are democratically elected to the board to represent their respective geographic including South Eastern, Western, North Eastern and Southern Duhallow. There is a strong motivation and commitment amongst these members to engage and contribute to the strategic development of their locality. Active participation in planning and decision-making processes means that the structure is always relevant, adaptive and effective on the ground. This is aligned to the concept of “subsidiarity”, one of the core organising principles of the EU whereby decisions should be taken at the most local level possible. This principle goes hand-in-hand with “participative democracy” whereby people have a right to participate in the decisions affecting their community. In 2025 Michelle Greene joined the board of IRD Duhallow representing North Eastern Duhallow along with

Members of Boherbue Mens Shed who were supported with funding through SICAP.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Community Development Paul Murphy who was re elected for a second term and Cait Ring and Joseph Cronin representing Mid Cork.

as they bring new ideas and enthusiasm and with festivals such as The Rockchapel Gathering only into its 2nd year its great to see how successful and supported they are locally.

Kerry Community Awards IRD Duhallow supports the judging process for the Kerry Community Awards. The objective of the initiative is to recognise the work of the community and voluntary sector that seeks to improve the Social, Economic, Cultural and Environmental quality of life in local communities, both urban and rural. 20 groups in total were presented with awards on the night with 10 groups receiving gold awards and 10 receiving silver.

Eileen Linehan, Assistant Manager IRD Climate Justice Duhallow presents a “Gold Winner” All cohorts of society are impacted by prize to Recovery Haven at the Kerry climate change and biodiversity/water Community Awards 2024. quality decline. IRD Duhallow is uniquely positioned to lead this conversation and ensure that climate action is fair, inclusive, and rooted in local needs ensuring that communities are not at risk of exclusion from the “Just Transition”. When people understand the shared nature of environmental challenges and the ethical responsibilities to each other, it nurtures a sense of solidarity. Awareness of climate, biodiversity and water quality issues, as well as ways for communities, households and individuals to take action are promoted through the Community Magazine Discover Duhallow. A sustainability workshop provided valuable insights and actionable advice, equipping attendees with the tools to live more sustainably while managing financial pressures. Practical strategies were provided to help save money while making eco-friendly choices that benefit both your budget and the environment.

Rockchapel: A large crowd attended the 3 counties challenge concert as part of the Gathering event supported by Day of the Regions.

Rockchapel the gathering: 117 children participated in the Tractor Run, which was a highlight for all on the day.

Day of the Regions The Day of the Regions Project is well embedded in Duhallow as it has been delivered by IRD Duhallow for the last 13 years with community groups participating to various degrees. The overall concept of the project involves supporting communities to celebrate the uniqueness of their area and to focus on their assets by bringing people together to develop that sense of community and to generate pride of place. With many new families living and returning to the area along with new arrivals with no previous connections to Duhallow, communities and groups are cognisant of the need to engage with them and host community events and activities. The Day of the Region Initiative is an ideal vehicle to promote this. As aways events have been varied and have included community festivals, community sports events and cultural events. Family fun days are proving ever popular and a staple feature in the diary for the summer months across the region.

One of the many groups that took a stand at the Newmarket Clubs Day which was an initiative that developed from a large community meeting facilitated by IRD Duhallow.

Fun & Games at the Rylane Family Fun Day with Adults getting in on the action for the fun race.

Funded under previous LEADER programmes as a cooperation project it has now received funding under the new LEADER programme as a rural tourism and recreation initiative. It is great to see such interest once again from communities. Newly established committees are always welcomed

Discover Duhallow Now in its 5th year the Discover Duhallow Community Magazine is a fixed staple in many homes every fortnight. Available in both print and online format it is reaching out across the region and beyond connecting communities and individuals, promoting community events, sharing local news. It was launched in September 2019 due a recognised need to promote community news and local business and to tackle rural isolation and exclusion. 4,000 copies are distributed via local shops, business and community facilities. With regular features from local contributors on everything from minding your well being to gardening tips there is something for everyone in the magazine. Staffed with the support of CE, RSS & Tus, the Discover Duhallow team has developed strong link with its community contributors.

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Equality And Social Inclusion In Duhallow IRD Duhallow’s Equality Working Group is dedicated to supporting individuals who may be facing exclusion within society. The group also works to raise awareness of social deprivation and foster a strong commitment to embedding equality in everyday practice. Its activities aim to ensure that the needs of disadvantaged individuals are addressed, by supporting both new and existing groups to encourage participation, combat marginalisation, and strengthen community connections.

National Integration Support Workers Forum As the needs of our new communities grow, and the challenge of integration becomes more complex the Local Development Company Network (LDCN) has established an Integration Support Workers Forum which IRD Duhallow sits on. This Forum allows for peer-to-peer support, the sharing of ideas and escalation of issues collectively. IRD Duhallow works closely with many agencies promoting equality and integration amongst refugees, asylum seekers and economic migrants in Duhallow.

IRD Duhallow is currently working closely with NASC helping to support a new family moving into Duhallow in the near future through their Community Sponsorship Programme.

Training for the Community In December 2024, a training event was organised through the SICAP Programme’s Integration of New Communities measure. This intercultural awareness webinar was delivered by the Muslim Sisters of Eire and provided attendees with insights into supporting attendees in cross cultural interactions and navigating challenges and differences. In May 2025 to coincide with European Diversity Month, the Equality Working Group organised further social inclusion training through the SICAP Programme. On this occasion, Beatriz Gómez Moreno of GORM Media delivered broad spectrum training relating to intercultural competence and fostering a culture of inclusivity in communities and workplaces. This highly interactive training ensured maximum participation from all participants and attendees were encouraged to reflect on the impacts of marginalisation in real life terms. Separately IRD Duhallow staff participated in a training event, which was delivered by Norma Fitzgibbon of the HR Suite. This event dealt with policy, legislation and developed participants grasp of the significance of diversity in a workplace environment.

SICAP supported an art inspired project in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra under its new Arrival Support Funding.

as a local and global issue. The circular forms, created by the students, are symbolic of the fact that nature operates on a fundamentally circular basis. In 2025 a youth event was also supported through the SICAP Integration of New Communities measure in Kerry. Students in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra Rathmore attended a ‘This is Me’ diversity and inclusion webinar, which aimed to foster understanding in relation to diversity. It is hoped that other schools in Duhallow may participate in this training in the Autumn.

Multi-Cultural Christmas Event Early December saw the James O’Keeffe Institute transform into a magical Christmas experience for local families when IRD Duhallow held its Annual Multi Cultural Christmas evening. The evening was a great success with over 130 children and families in attendance which consisted of both locals and families which are new arrivals to the area. Accompanied by a local face painter, IRD Duhallow staff facilitated art and craft workshops along with cookie decorating and handmade Christmas decorations. The final highlight of the night was undoubtedly a visit to Santa who was accompanied by Mrs Claus. While families waited excitedly for their turn, they enjoyed tasty delicacies from Duhallow Community Food Services. Children attending Newmarket Afterschools also popped in for a visit and got to meet Santa and Mrs Claus. This was a heart-warming evening full of festive cheer and there was a true sense of community there with.

SICAP Intercultural School Projects Under the SICAP New Arrival action, IRD Duhallow works with local communities and schools, to ensure interculturalism is supported.

Through this measure students in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra Rathmore, undertook a wonderful group project in 2024, which allowed them to express themselves through the medium of art and clay. Their mosaic project is an example of collaborative effort between students in TYs and students from other years in the school. Their work aims to promote global awareness and looked at the biodiversity that must be maintained,

Lohovski Tymofii and Mykhailo Buts enjoyed the face painting and crafts table at the multi cultural event.

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Pictured at Millstreet Community School near the colourful mural representing interculturalism, the student journey and the natural geography and history of the area are MEP for Ireland South Seán Kelly, Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow, Frances Moynihan Deputy Principal Millstreet Community School, Pól Ó Síodhcháin Principal and IRD Duhallow Development Officers Nollaig Murphy and Lenora Kelly. This project received support from the LEADER programme.

Carmel Twohig Jones with her daughter Fiadh and Aila and Ella Boureau with daughters Paige and Bonnie

Santa & Mrs Clause with Donnacha O’Callaghan at the IRD Duhallow Multi Cultural Xmas Event

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Support For Ukrainian Refugees Our integration team have continued to have a strong presence on the ground meeting with refugees, asylum seekers and economic migrants.

With the ever-changing rules around migration including the most recent extension granted of temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees our team have been busy supporting those affected. We continue to play an active part on both the Cork and Kerry Integration Forum and sub committees. We also work closely with the Local Authorities Housing team on the ARP programme along with the integration team in the HSE and ETB. Social Inclusion Throughout the year, we organised a variety of events aimed at bringing people of all nationalities together and fostering integration. During the summer, nature lead walks provided a relaxed setting for connection and cultural exchange. To mark Refugee Week in Duhallow we delivered CV clinics and a board games evening for children and adults which were very well attended. This year for our Youth Integration Day, we organised a trip to Crag Cave and Dingle Ocean world Aquarium which was a great success.

Wellbeing group “Be Kind to Your Mind” with Alice O Brien

counsellor Alice O’Brien which centred on self-compassion, effective stress management, and building awareness of the link between thoughts and emotions. It offered participants practical tools to support their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Drop In Centre Drop-in clinics have been a valuable support as they provide a welcoming space to meet, share experiences and stay informed about upcoming events and opportunities. Our team organises monthly meetings for new arrivals and economic migrants in Newmarket and Rathmore, as well as fortnightly sessions in Kanturk. These gatherings help build community connections and offer practical support for those settling into life in the region.

A great day of fun @ our Community Integration Day in Kanturk Town Park

Teenagers on our Youth day visiting Crag Cave

To celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day, we rolled out a community integration event in Kanturk Town Park, bringing together families of diverse backgrounds. The day featured taekwondo and football taster sessions from Kanturk AFC, along with bouncy castles, garden games, and a BBQ prepared by Duhallow Community Food Services.

Employment support Gaining meaningful employment is the main goal for the majority of new arrivals and economic migrants and our Integration team has delivered a range of courses to help them upskill for employment. Under the REACH Fund we delivered a 3-day Forklift training, Manual handling and First Aid. As many are now working in in the food and service industry we also delivered Food Safety as well as Barista and Customer Service Workshop.

For the Autumn Winter period we launched our Together Hub which includes board game evenings provided in a safe and friendly environment for teenagers to connect, while adults attend movie nights focused on Irish based films. These sessions not only support integration through English language improvement but also offer an insight into Irish culture, history, and traditions.

Participants in our Bespoke 8-week English Language Programme

All fun & games at our board games evening for teenagers

Christmas decoration & craft workshop proved very popular

Well being In collaboration with the HSE Social Inclusion team we organised a sixweek psychological wellbeing workshop focused on stress management.

The sessions incorporated practices such as meditation and acupuncture.

Due to the success of the programme, an additional session was held just before Christmas, a time that can be particularly stressful, especially for those living far from home. We also delivered craft workshops where participants created their own Christmas wreaths using natural materials.

We began 2025 with the “Be Kind to Your Mind” programme led by local

We are very cognisant that limited English is still a significant barrier to employment and we designed a Bespoke 8-week English Language Programme via SICAP which gave participants the opportunity to improve their English and confidence with the language.

Volodymir Bitiev who participated on our 3 day Forklift course

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Equality For Women & Childcare IRD Duhallow’s Womens Forum was established in 1997 and continues to advocate for women in Duhallow providing a strong voice and a powerful platform for addressing issues affecting women in the region.

Women often face unique social, economic and educational challenges that can lead to isolation and limited opportunities. IRD Duhallow’s Women’s Forum continues to adapt to meet the needs of an everchanging society to support and give a voice to women of all age cohorts and backgrounds.

all shared along with practical advice on holistic wellbeing, nutrition and self-care. Adding a unique perspective to the event Breda Stack known as ‘The Declutter Therapist’ discussed the connection between mental health and physical surroundings. As the menopause often brings significant life transitions Breda’s approach helps women to create a more supportive and calming environment during this period.

The Forum consists of representatives from women’s groups from across the region and they organise regular meetings and events. These groups bring women together, creating strong social networks that enhance community cohesion and improve overall quality of life. These connections often lead to lasting friendships, mentorship opportunities, and a shared sense of belonging.

IRD Duhallow was delighted to provide a SICAP grant under Goal 1 to Freemount Women’s Shed for their set up costs. Freemount Women's Shed is the newest member of IRD Duhallow’s Womens Forum and part of a growing national movement addressing social isolation and mental health issues among women.

IRD Duhallow’s Women’s Forum is affiliated to The National Women’s Council of Ireland ensuring the Women of Duhallow are recognised and represented at a Local, National and International level.

IRD Duhallow is proud to have an all-female management team having achieved gender balance on its board. We recognise the importance in promoting a gender diverse board in accordance with our values and mission. It is also great to see in 2025 that the Duhallow region for the first time ever have two women elected to the Seanad; Senator Eileen Lynch and Senator Nicola Ryan. We will continue to promote active citizenship amongst women of all ages and encourage them to join local committees and structures and to become involved in local and national decision making. This will help to inspire future young women to ensure the issues of Duhallow women are represented and barriers further broken down.

Duhallow Women’s Conference International Women’s Day For International Women’s Day 2025 the Forum organised a Womens Health event entitled ‘Mná-Pause & Brunch’ which was a resounding success, drawing a diverse group of over 70 women from across the community. The event was dedicated to health, wellness and empowerment and provided valuable insights and support for women navigating all stages of peri-menopause, Judy O’Leary Chair and Founding member of menopause and post the Duhallow Womens Forum opens the IRD Duhallow International Womens Day event. menopause. International Women’s Day is a time to honour the achievements of women while also addressing important issues affecting their lives.

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Attendees appreciated the expert-led talks from Dr Maire Cleary & Triona Casey of the Mná Clinic Killarney along with Kevina Reel Physiotherapist all of whom covered physical symptoms, emotional wellbeing, and practical coping strategies. Medical approaches, symptoms and treatments were

Helen O’Sullivan IRD Duhallow with Margaret Kerins Manager of Tir na nÓg Childcare.

International Women’s Day Key Note speakers Dr Marie Cleary, Triona Casey & Kevina Reel.

This event wasn’t just about information, it was about connection and relaxation. The event fostered a sense of solidarity and connection among women of all ages. Many expressed ease and relief at being part of a conversation that validates their experiences and challenges societal taboos.

An engaged audience listening to speakers at our Mná-Pause Conference.

By bringing menopause into the spotlight on International Women’s Day, the event succeeded in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting health and well-being. The event was opened by Judy O’Leary, Chair and Founding member of Duhallow Women’s Forum and presented

by Maura Walsh, CEO.

Ashlean Tarrant and Senator Nicole Ryan Millstreet pictured at International Womens Day.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Equality For Women & Childcare North Cork Childcare Network Celebrating 10 years in 2025, the Duhallow North Cork Childcare Managers Network was established by IRD Duhallow to help bring managers in community childcare facilities in North Cork and East Kerry together to share experiences and learnings. This Network provides a space where members can tackle challenges facing the childcare sector.

They also receive important information on governance, management issues and upcoming opportunities for funding and training. The Network now consists of managers from 20 community-based facilities along with representation from Cork County Childcare and IRD Duhallow. Through the IRD Duhallow Skillnet Programme significant investment has been made upskilling childcare staff in with QQI Level 5, 6, 7 and 8 in courses thereby helping to tackle the staffing challenges in the sector. Members of the network have offered placements in their facilities to students on the courses.

Community childcare facilities are at the heart of many local communities, providing essential services to families and laying a strong foundation for learning and development. They play a major role in attracting families to the region allowing parents to work, study, or pursue career development. The Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme was launched in 2002 by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law reform to support the establishment of childcare facilities that would serve the entire community. The facilities would be open for a minimum of 48 weeks a year and provide childcare for children from 6 months to 14 years including breakfast clubs and afterschool services. It also aimed to support services to respond to local needs, for example, opening from 7am to 7pm as demand presented to facilitate people commuting to work in hospitals or industries in regional towns and cities. IRD Duhallow supported seven crèches to successfully apply for this funding under the NCIP programme. They now employ seven managers and 179 staff to cater for over 900 children.

Mary Murphy Manager of Banteer Childcare with her team of Room Educators who were finalists in the Best Community Enterprise at the Duhallow Business Awards.

Finalist in the Women Led Business Category of the Duhallow Business Awards: Mary O’Sullivan of Beginners Corner with her staff Liz O’Riordan, Anna Lynch and Theresa O’Sullivan.

The Childcare sector in Ireland has had a number of issues affecting the delivery of their services over the last number of years. Government policies have taken proactive steps to make childcare affordable as the cost of childcare has been a significant financial strain for many families.

In the last year under the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) an increase in subsidies by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth (DCEDIY) has been welcomed by parents. This new measure aims to make quality childcare more affordable and accessible for all families, particularly those in low and middle-income brackets.

These subsidies can be the difference between staying in the workforce and having to reduce work hours or exit employment altogether. The social and economic benefits of keeping parents, particularly women, in the workforce cannot be understated. Childcare affordability directly influences employment rates and the financial independence of families and is therefore essential particularly in rural areas.

From our community consultation meetings it has been identified that lack of childcare and a shortage of childcare places is a serious and growing issue that affects families, communities, and the economy.

Parents are forced onto long waiting lists, often for months or even years and some families have to settle for part-time care or travel longer distances to find available places. Without childcare, many parents reduce work hours or leave jobs entirely. This can lead to gender inequality and reduce household incomes and career advancement. It is hoped that funding for large scale investment will become available in the coming years to address this widespread issue.

MEP Cynthia Ni Mhurchu with IRD Duhallow Staff Nollaig Murphy, Maura Walsh, Eileen Linehan, Triona Dennehy, Helen O’Sullivan and Lenora Kelly.

Eileen Linehan Assistant CEO presenting the award for Best Women Led Business to Katie Lawlor of Auntie Katie’s .

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Duhallow Carers According to the most recent Census, there are 2,946 carers living in the IRD Duhallow region—an exceptionally high figure relative to the national average on a per capita basis. This marks a significant increase from the previous Census, which recorded 1,487 carers in the area. These carers provide essential care for loved ones, including children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, individuals with palliative care needs, and those with chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, or addiction. Following a detailed analysis and focus group consultation with participants from the last Dormant Accounts Fund Carers Programme, a clear and ongoing need for dedicated support for family carers in the region has been identified.

Members of the Duhallow Carers Group meet monthly to share experiences, support each other and prioritise actions for IRD.

mindfulness and stress management, and access to relevant training and resources that empower carers in their role.

We will also host information sessions on key topics including entitlements, assisted decision-making, and future care planning, while creating opportunities for carers to engage directly with guest speakers, service providers, and public representatives. These supports not only help carers feel less alone but also ensure they are informed, connected, and confident in navigating the demands of their caring responsibilities.

Members of the Duhallow Carers Group enjoying a day trip to Kenmare, Co. Kerry.

Dormant Accounts Funding 2025-2026: IRD Duhallow is pleased to have secured funding under the Dormant Accounts Fund for the period January 2025 to December 2026, allowing us to continue delivering vital supports to family carers throughout the Duhallow region. This funding recognises the invaluable role that family carers play in our communities and enables us to provide tailored assistance that promotes their wellbeing, inclusion, and resilience.

Breda Buckley, celebrating her birthday with members of the Carers Network

The Duhallow Carers Network continues to be a crucial source of support for family carers in rural and isolated areas of the region promoting the health, wellbeing and quality of life of these people and those for whom they care. In addition to providing opportunities for peer support and carer engagement, the group provides a forum for advocacy and lobbying on issues faced by the carers of the region.

The Duhallow Carers Group at their annual Christmas gathering.

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Family carers, who provide unpaid care to relatives or loved ones often experience social isolation, emotional strain, and difficulty accessing services. Over the course of this two-year period, IRD Duhallow will deliver a comprehensive range of supports to respond to these challenges. This includes regular group meetings that foster peer connection and shared experience, initiatives to support health and wellbeing such as

HSE Funding: The HSE continues to provide Section 39 funding on an annual basis to support the operational costs of the group. This funding helps subsidise the many outings and events organised throughout the year. Many family carers, who rely solely on carers' allowance, are on the brink of financial hardship. For those providing round-the-clock care, the financial and emotional strain has been ongoing long before the cost-ofliving crisis, and the situation has only worsened. Given these challenges, it remains a priority for the group to Eileen Fehin, a member of the ensure that costs associated with Duhallow Carers Group, speaking at attending events run by the Duhallow our 2024 Seniors Conference Carers group are kept as low as possible to ensure accessibility for all carers in need of support.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Saoi Network Saoi In traditional Irish culture, older people were honored and respected within their communities for the knowledge and wisdom gained through a lifetime of experience. The term “Saoi” was used to describe an elder who possessed deep insight and wisdom to share.

his talk on the joys and accessibility of solo travel. Mary O’Reilly, a Cardiologist Nurse, educated attendees on the dangers of coronary artery disease and its warning signs. The conference concluded on a high note with an uplifting performance by Marie Twomey and Singing for the Brain.

It was in this spirit that IRD Duhallow established the Duhallow Saoi Network, a support network for older people. The network is made up of representatives from the region’s 21 active retirement groups, who come together on a quarterly basis at the James O’Keeffe Institute in Newmarket. Supporting those in the third age is a key priority for IRD Duhallow, as nearly 16% of the local population is aged over 65, a figure significantly higher than the national average.

Bealtaine Bealtaine is a month-long festival held in May that celebrates active ageing and encourages older people to engage with and participate in their communities. To launch the Duhallow Bealtaine Festival, the IRD Duhallow Saoi Network was delighted to host the annual Dawn Mass at the Source of the Blackwater on 27th March 2025. Blessed with mild, dry weather, it was a truly special and memorable morning for all who attended. Mass was celebrated by Fr. Tom Looney, with beautiful musical performances by Laura Dunlea and Anne Marie Lehane. Dr. Séamus Ó Máille also gave an insight into his book, Walking the Munster Blackwater: Ó Thriopall go Caoin Eochaill.

IRD Duhallow has conducted a comprehensive analysis of the needs of older people, highlighting the importance of tailored, targeted social inclusion initiatives. These interventions focus on areas such as health, well-being, and leisure; transport; housing; safety and security; isolation; social networks and support; and financial matters.

The Saoi Network plays a central role in advocating for these needs and implementing initiatives that promote active ageing and ensure older people remain included and engaged in their communities.

IRD Duhallow’s 6th Annual Seniors’ Conference

IRD Duhallow hosted a lively Bingo Afternoon in the Marquee in May. The event drew a fantastic crowd, and a few lucky participants walked away with great prizes.

Assisted Decision-Making Morning.

Aine Flynn, Director of the Decision Support Services, delivered an informative session on assistive Decision Marking (Capacity) Act 2015.

A total of 20 events took place as part of Bealtaine 2025, including a Movie afternoon, Bingo, a First Aid course, an Online Safety information session, and a variety of activities organised by local active retirement groups to mark the festival.

Kathleen Moylan Chair of the Saoi Network welcoming a large crowd to the Senior Conference 2024

IRD Duhallow’s 6th Annual Seniors’ Conference took place on the 12th of November 2024 in the marquee at the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, with over 180 guests in attendance. IRD Duhallow was delighted to welcome guest speakers including Eileen Fehin, who shared her inspiring journey of living with a brain injury and how she continues to persevere despite numerous challenges. Norinna Nagle of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, discussed the organisation’s vital work in rebuilding lives over the past two decades. Next, IRD’s Horticulture Specialist Rachel Budd provided valuable gardening tips, including advice on garden maintenance and growing one’s own produce. The conference also featured a panel of speakers showcasing the wide range of services IRD Duhallow offers to support the elderly community. These included Warmer Homes, Furniture REVAMP, Community Laundry, and Duhallow Community Food Services. Collette Vaughan spoke about Welfare Rights and then Finola McCarthy gave an insight into a Life-Long Learning for Older Adults project at UCC. John Noel Cronin inspired attendees with

Dawn Mass 2025 celebrated by Fr. Tom Looney

Jack’s Mystery Tour is always a highlight of the Bealtaine calendar. We fondly remember Jack Roche, former chairman of the Saoi Network, who passed away in January 2024.On Friday, the 30th of Members from various active retied groups enjoying Arts and May, members from crafts with Jessica as part of the Bealtaine Festival. various Active Retirement groups set off on the Mystery Tour, heading for Tipperary.

The bus made its way to Cahir, where they visited the impressive Cahir Castle. From there, they continued to Cashel Folk Village and onto Lár na Páirce, followed by a peaceful stop at Holycross Abbey.

The Saoi Network during the annual Jack Roche’s Mystery Tour, pictured at one of the tour’s stops - Holy Cross Abbey.

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Disability And Mental Health New Directions Group The New Directions Group, formally known as Towards Occupation, is a community based mental health initiative established over ten years ago originally with a focus on employment but in recent years with a social inclusion and community integration remit. The group meets twice weekly in the James O Keeffe Institute. Organised activities include inhouse horticulture classes and learning in the IRD Duhallow Therapeutic New Directions Participants Patrick, Brian, gardens and participation on the Social Farming Programme. Denis and John enjoying the good weather whilst out and about in the IRD Duhallow Horticulture and nature-based vegetable and herb garden practices provide structured, meaningful activities that foster social inclusion, routine, and a sense of purpose. Such activities are increasingly recognised as effective therapeutic tools in supporting mental health and wellbeing. Arts and Crafts along with board games and puzzles are also a favourite for this group as they are another therapeutic way to engage with participants.

These classes are primarily funded through the Cork ETB Community Education Fund along with SICAP funding, and all are very proactive in participating in these classes. By engaging with such activities participants can experience reduced stress, improved mood, and strengthen social connections.

The New Directions Group receiving their end of year ‘Certificate of Participation’.

The SICAP programme supports the group to promote coping strategies an encourages emotional healing. The group also practices mindfulness, self-care skills and wellbeing which are essential as they promote emotional regulation, stress reduction, and greater self-awareness.

Day Trip Group days out are a great way for members to connect socially outside of their usual setting and have an experience that is both entertaining and educational. The group visited Fota Wildlife Park last July and enjoyed a relaxing time surrounded by nature and animals, getting a tour of the exhibits and enjoying a specially organised opportunity to feed the penguins. A short bus spin to Cobh to the Titanic Experience and Museum gave them the chance to step back in time, with detailed exhibits and a guided tour that brought the ships story to life.

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Day trip to Fota Wildlife Park pictured with Percy the Crow and park ranger Willie.

Duhallow Emotional Support and Counselling Service The Duhallow Emotional Support and Counselling Service offers an emotional support, and an in-house counselling service. Trained professionals overseen by Co Ordinator Aoife Douglas offer guidance, coping strategies and a listening ear to help manage stress, anxiety and other mental health concerns in a safe and confidential space. This free service is easily accessible and is proving increasingly popular. It is available to anyone living in the Duhallow area to access.

Many hands make light work – participants working as a team in the IRD Duhallow Community Gardens

NeuroInsight: Unpacking Diverse Minds – A Celebration of Neurodiversity IRD Duhallow was proud to host this event which featured three distinguished speakers, each bringing a wealth of expertise offering perspectives that are often underrepresented in mainstream discourse on neurodiversity. Dr. Áine O’Dea, occupational therapist and academic, opened the event with a comprehensive exploration of sensory and emotional regulation. Her presentation skilfully demystified the complex processes by which the brain interprets emotion, providing practical strategies to promote both co-regulation and self-regulation for neurodivergent individuals. Sharon McCarthy, UCD and Autism Journeys, gave an insightful and deeply personal address on the realities of receiving an autism diagnosis in adulthood. Her talk shed light on the emotional challenges of masking, the complexities of late identification, and the profound empowerment that accompanies embracing a neurodivergent identity. Laura Crowley, a respected autism consultant and sleep specialist, concluded the day with a focus on sleep health among autistic individuals. Her evidence-based guidance offered clear, actionable recommendations for establishing supportive and sustainable sleep routines.

The extended Q&A session that followed was marked by thoughtful questions and heartfelt reflections, underscoring the value and necessity of such open, supportive spaces.

Feedback from attendees reflected a deep sense of validation and connection, with many expressing that they felt truly seen, heard, and understood—an outcome that speaks to the event’s lasting significance.

Speaker Aine O Dea giving an informative talk to the people who attended NeuroInsight: Unpacking Diverse Minds.

More than just an information session, NeuroInsight served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, shared learning, and the celebration of neurodiverse identities. The rich dialogue, expert insights, and authentic engagement ensured that the event left a meaningful and enduring impact on all who participated. This event was made possible through the collaboration of the WorkAbility, Social Inclusion and Community Melissa Holland and Helen O’Sullivan of IRD Activation Programme (SICAP), and Duhallow with speakers Sharon McCarthy, Aine O Dea, Laura Crowley at the Parent Peer Support Programmes.

NeuroInsights event

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Rural Community Health Rural Community Health Project Improving the mental health and wellbeing of individuals, groups and communities was identified as a priority back in 2021 by the HSE for the North Cork region. Due to the high rates of suicides in North Cork this pilot project was rolled out in a collaboration between IRD Duhallow, Ballyhoura Development, Avondhu Blackwater and the HSE. Now into its 4th year the project is delivered through 3 objectives; suicide prevention, intervention and postvention supports. It has had a great impact and been well received on the ground. The core mission of RCHW is to educate and empower individuals and communities to confront the pressing issues of social isolation and mental health. The project promotes positive mental health and wellbeing, and through its work, has identified a growing need for additional social supports.

Walking and Social Group Launched in 2022, the Walking and Social Club was established to tackle issues such as loneliness, isolation, depression, and stress, while also encouraging physical health and overall wellbeing. The club with a current membership of 38 now offers two levels of fitness walks to cater to a broader range of abilities, meeting twice weekly at Island Wood in Newmarket.

Members also enjoy regular outings to explore new walking routes. During the autumn and winter months, the focus shifts to indoor physical activities as part of a seasonal programme.

welcoming individuals from all backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on social inclusion as well as a shared love of reading. Together with the Walking and Social Club, this group offers vital social support to people in the Duhallow region who are experiencing or at risk of rural and social isolation.

Events, Wellness Days and Courses Continuing on with promoting self-care and well-being an Activator Pole training session was held in October which sparked a series of ongoing classes throughout the winter months including classes on practicing mindfulness through yoga and fitness. Wellness and fitness classes are very effective for combating seasonal isolation and maintaining mental well being while also promoting physical exercise and resilience , helping people stay active during the winter season.

Mens Mental Health Week 2025 During Men’s Health Week 2025, IRD Duhallow delivered a targeted programme of events aimed at raising awareness around men’s mental and physical health. A key event took place at Kanturk Mart, chosen specifically as a familiar and comfortable setting to engage men who may not typically attend health-related events. The day provided an opportunity to speak openly about mental health, with information stands and informal conversations helping to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention. A men’s walk was also held, promoting the positive impact of physical activity on mental wellbeing while creating space for connection and peer support. In addition, CPR and AED training sessions were delivered to raise awareness of heart health and equip participants with vital, life-saving skills. The events were well attended and created meaningful engagement around men’s health in an open and accessible way.

Walking and Social Club members enjoying the glorious weather on one of their trips out to Muckross House Killarney earlier in the year.

Getting the steps in at Castlefreke Trails near Rathbarry in West Cork on the Walking and Social Clubs annual trip with Rural Community Health Worker Elmarie Young.

Shane McHale and Ciaran Carmody at Kanturk Mart for an Open Information Day on Men’s health and wellbeing in recognition of International Men’s Week in June.

Book Club Our book club meets weekly and has grown in membership, warmly

Listening Service June 2025 saw the launch of the IRD Duhallow Listening Service as part of the RCH programme. Not a counselling service but a safe space for those who wish to share what ever is troubling them on a one to one basis with our rural community health worker. If after a session further The newly launched Listening Service in IRD Duhallow is a support is required we welcoming and safe space. sign post the person to relevant supports and services.

Reading for the Brain: Members of the IRD Duhallow Bookclub enjoying the at their weekly meetings.

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Empowering Abilities: Building Inclusive Pathways through WorkAbility From rural towns to isolated communities, people with disabilities often face added barriers to finding meaningful employment. The WorkAbility: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme, co-funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) under the EIST Programme 2021–2027 and the Department of Social Protection (DSP), offers a lifeline to those at the margins.

• Rolled out new workshops including public speaking, creative arts and drama, and relationship/sexual health education • Introduced peer support and wellness coaching to address mental health barriers

Delivered locally by IRD Duhallow, WorkAbility is about more than employment. It is about recognising potential, creating belonging, and building resilience-no matter the starting point.

Breaking Down Barriers in Rural Ireland In Ireland, just 36% of people with disabilities are in employment compared to over 70% of the general population (CSO, 2023). In rural areas, this gap can be even wider due to limited public transport, fewer opportunities, and social isolation.

Gearoid Meehan who participates on a host farm as part of the Duhallow Social Farm Project.

That’s why WorkAbility matters.

This year, the programme has supported 30 participants, empowering individuals with physical, intellectual, and mental health challenges to chart a path forward. From CV writing workshops to job placements, our approach is person-centred and strengths-based, with a focus on community inclusion.

The group working on their Careers Portal

A series of targeted workshops recently concluded as part of the programme, each designed to foster personal growth and enhance employability skills. Drama and creative writing sessions provided a platform for self-expression, building confidence and encouraging individuality. Meanwhile, the "Communications in the Workplace" module focused on developing empathy and improving interpersonal skills, equipping participants with the tools for more effective and considerate communication in professional environments. Physical wellbeing was addressed through a dedicated four-week module on nutrition and health, promoting a deeper understanding of self-care as a foundation for personal and professional resilience.

On the 16th of December, the WorkAbility group along with Ailbe Coffey (tutor) and BridgidIde Walsh, travelled by plane, from Kerry to Dublin. For many of the group, this was their first experience in a plane, which was an exciting experience. They explored the Wax Museum first that supported curiosity and education. After this, they went shopping in Grafton Street, taking in the atmosphere of Dublin’s various shops and street performances.

Ailbe Coffey (Next Steps to Employability tutor), Jamie O Donoghue, Daniel O Laughlin, Bridgie-Ide Walsh and Darragh Murphy on their way to Dublin from Kerry Airport.

Looking ahead, upcoming workshops will centre on practical life skills such as course selection, volunteering opportunities, and driving preparation—all essential components for expanding future employment prospects.

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Highlights from 2024–2025 • 30 participants engaged in personalised development plans • 15 completed work placements across sectors like retail, hospitality, and community services

“The workability program led by IRD Duhallow and its suite of personal development and life skills programs are a wonderful way to help individuals with disabilities build the skills they need to thrive in their communities and future workplaces.

These classes boost confidence, improve communication, and teach problem-solving in ways that are tailored to each person’s unique needs. By focusing on suitability, adaptability and self-advocacy, participants are empowered to overcome challenges, find fulfilling job opportunities, and take active roles in making their communities stronger.

These programs open doors to inclusion, independence, and the chance to achieve personal goals thus enhancing their lives…”

- Ailbe Coffey, Next Steps Towards Employability tutor

Participant Journeys

Solomon Kassa, Indigo Breimer, Tim Twomey, Darragh Murphy, Daniel O Loughlin and Gearoid Meehan performing in Creative Drama with Tutor Micheal Guerin.

“Workability has been great for me in developing as a person. I've met new lifelong friends that I can rely on.

The varied courses the programme offers have been vital in understanding myself better and striving to be my authentic self.”

— [Daniel], age [28] Looking Forward: Growing Inclusion WorkAbility is not just about jobs. It’s about people. Next year, we aim to: • Expand our employer network • Offer flexible, tailored supports • Host a community awareness event to reduce stigma in the workplace • Deepen our focus on peerled mentorship

WorkAbility group Team Building Field Trip: Participants Gary O Connor, Catriona Lawlor (Tutor), Darragh Murphy, Tim Twomey, Gearoid Meehan, Melissa Holland (WorkAbility co-ordinator), Solomon Kassa and Daniel O Loughlin at Liscarroll Donkey Sanctuary.

The group learn about engines and driving at Munster Driving Campus in Mallow.

By continuing to meet individuals where they are, we’re building a future where rural inclusion is not an exception, but the norm.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Local Area Employment Service (LAES) IRD Duhallow’s Local Area Employment Service (LAES) continues to be a vital service in tackling long-term unemployment and fostering workforce inclusion across our region. Since joining the Regional Employment Service model in August 2022 as part of a consortium led by Cork City Partnership – alongside SECAD, Avondhu Blackwater, and Ballyhoura Development – IRD Duhallow has remained committed to delivering high-quality, community-based employment supports.

The LAES operates through a referral system, whereby the Department of Social Protection refers clients who have been on Jobseekers' Allowance for over 12 months. Once referred, clients are supported over a 52-week programme involving monthly one-to-one meetings with our dedicated caseworkers. These meetings provide structured, personcentred guidance tailored to each individual’s employment journey.

(L–R) Team Leader Triona Dennehy with LAES Case Officers Ciaran Carmody, Lenora Kelly, and Alina O’Mahony.

Key Highlights from This Year: • 544 Referrals to Date: We have now supported 544 individuals referred through LAES, providing them with consistent, personalised employment support and guidance.

offer, particularly through LAES, and to strengthen partnerships with employers, stakeholders, and other service providers.

Person-Centred and Holistic Support Our commitment to delivering compassionate, tailored employment support remains at the heart of our service. Through regular one-to-one engagement, we empower individuals to identify their strengths, overcome barriers, and explore meaningful employment and training opportunities. We work with individuals to identify their wants and needs from employment and work towards finding suitable employment or training opportunities.

Tailored Training Our Case Officers listen closely to both the needs of the client and local employers, which helps them in deciding which courses to run through the SICAP programme. Courses such as hospitality, first aid, basic computers, personal development and more.

Alina O’Mahony, Elmarie Young, Aidan Wolfe (Intreo), PJ Murphy, and Ciaran Carmody attending an the Intreo Work & Skills Recruitment & Training Fair in Mallow.

Our Macroom Office We not only operate from our offices in Newmarket but also in Macroom.

We are based above Deasy’s Pharmacy on the main street, which allows us to continue to deliver LAES supports in accessible, community-based settings. This location enables us to connect participants with local resources, employers, and training opportunities.

• Staff Upskilling to Support Clients: This year, members of our LAES team became certified Manual Handling Instructors. This added capacity allows us to deliver essential training directly to clients, helping remove one of the key barriers to employment for many individuals in manual roles.

• Community Outreach and Promotion: Our team proudly represented IRD Duhallow at the #WorkWithIntreo #WorkandSkills2025 event in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow. This event was an opportunity to promote the comprehensive range of employment supports we

Our Macroom LAES office that is located above Deasy’s Pharmacy in the WorkBase Coworking Hub & Offices.

LAES Case Officer Lenora Kelly conducting a one-to-one meeting with a client.

Looking Ahead As we move forward, IRD Duhallow is focused on strengthening links with local employers, expanding our in-house training provision, and deepening our community engagement. We are also exploring new ways to enhance client outcomes through the use of the SICAP programme and linking in with adult and further education providers in the area.

Our continued participation in the LAES consortium reflects our shared vision of a more inclusive, opportunity-rich employment landscape for all. Through ongoing collaboration, training, and innovation, we remain steadfast in our mission to support long-term unemployed individuals in their journey towards sustainable employment and greater personal independence.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Youth And Education The IRD Duhallow Youth & Education Working Group is the umbrella structure for all that we do in relation to youths and their families in Duhallow. It was established in 2003 as part of our Board Structure to promote social, inclusive personal and education development of young people. The working group has achieved significant progress to date.

Duhallow Child & Family Support Network (CFSN) IRD Duhallow is delighted to work closely with Tusla on the roll out of the Duhallow Child & Family Support Network for the region. CFSN’s help to support families in need by taking a localised area based approach. They are the unit building blocks of the TUSLA National Service Delivery Framework (NSDF) to ensure there is integrated service delivery in Duhallow. The Duhallow CFSN consists of representatives from local schools and agencies where everyone is working in partnership to support families locally. IRD Duhallow looks forward to seeing this network develop in the coming years and works closely with Stephanie Heffernan Senior CFSN Co Ordinator who is a great advocate for developing such supports in rural areas.

Children who completed IRD Duhallow’s Public Speaking Workshops gather on the steps of the James O’Keeffe Institute following their presentation with their tutor Siobhán Fitzgerald of Let’s Stand and Nollaig Murphy event co-ordinator IRD Duhallow.

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Public Speaking 2024 The James O’Keeffe Institute was the venue for a wonderful occasion in October 2024, when national school students representing schools throughout Duhallow were present to deliver speeches especially prepared for the annual IRD Duhallow public speaking event. This day marked the culmination of special workshops where children developed public speaking and communicative confidence. Under the expert tutelage of Dr. Siobhán Fitzgerald creator of the Lets Stand Progamme, a variety of very interesting speeches were eloquently delivered by local students. Adult evaluators representing IRD Duhallow were also present to give positive feedback and advice to the young speakers. Vice Chairperson of IRD Duhallow Anne Maria Bourke and Development Officer Rowan Lanning, spoke to the group in relation to the contents of their speeches and the significance of their public speaking achievements. The young participants spoke on matters close to their heart with speeches relating to sports, local heroes, history, folklore and special places of interest in Duhallow all being capably delivered by the children. Through their presentations the children also showed some of the skills they had mastered through participating in the programme, including intonation, speech structure, hand gestures, eye contact and facial expression.

Throughout the 2025 many of the participants volunteered to have their speeches published in Discover Duhallow, these Public Speaking students from Boherbue National were very well received by School with School Principal Ms. Marie Casey and their its readership. teacher Ms. Meabh Buckley.

Literacy Advancement Initiative Throughout the school year, IRD Duhallow organises weekly classes for children. The initiative is led by qualified primary school teachers and conducted with a low pupil-to-teacher ratio in place. Activities focus on reading, writing, spelling, memory and sequencing skills in a supportive small group setting. The TTRS programme complements this approach with a multisensory computer-based approach that helps children develop touch typing, spelling, and reading skills. The programme uses repetition and dictation exercises to boost reading, listening, and typing proficiency while reinforcing overall learning. On Monday, May 26th, after several months of dedicated learning, IRD Duhallow’s Youth and Education Working Group organised a Recognition of Learning evening to celebrate the achievements of the children who participated in the 2024/2025 Literacy Advancement and Touch, Type, Read and Spell (TTRS) programmes. Twenty children were present on the night, accompanied by their proud families, teachers, and tutors. Each child's achievements were recognised with the presentation of a trophy and certificate. All attendees enjoyed delicious refreshments, while the children received specially prepared goody bags.

IRD Duhallow Development Officers Nollaig Murphy & Melissa Holland with Literacy Teachers Katie Hickey and Sarah Jones Aoife Murphy with students from our Literacy Programme at the Recognition of Learning evening which celebrated their achievements.

Understanding your Teen The Youth & Education Working group delivered an information seminar with local psychotherapist Alice O’Brien in October. On the night Alice shared some very insightful tips and information on how to support teenagers through the ups and downs of teenage years while ensuring relationships are nurtured at home.

Alice O’Brien sharing her knowledge with parents at the Understanding Your Teen evening.

Cybersafety Seminar The online world is a constant worry for parents. To support and inform parents an in person workshop with Aoife Noon of THINK SMART CYBER was organised to empower parents with the awareness and tools to help safeguard their children online, reduce stress and protect

Aoife Noone with Brighid Ide Walsh and Maura Walsh at the Cybersafety Event.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Youth And Education their potential. Focused on bridging the digital divide this event provided parents with crucial knowledge to protect their children online while ensuring all families can participate safely in the digital world.

Puppet Workshops Led by Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist & Play Therapist Lorraine O’Hanlon provided a magical hands on workshop for 5to 11-year-olds in early 2025.

Through crafting characters children learned about expressing emotions with everyone creating their own puppet to take home. The event fostered social inclusion by providing a safe space for marginalised individuals, build confidence and connect with Circle of Fun.... some aids at the Puppet others. Through storytelling and Workshop allowing for fun and self-discovery. collaboration participants developed communication skills and felt a sense of belonging. This was a fun and meaningful experience full of creativity and self-discovery.

Careers Exhibition IRD Duhallow held its annual careers exhibition in November bringing together universities, colleges and agricultural institutions to guide young people in shaping their futures. The event provided students with a unique opportunity to explore diverse educational and career paths.

Exhibiters offered valuable insights into courses programmes and career prospects helping attendees make informed decisions about their next steps. This dynamic event underscored IRD Duhallow’s commitment to empowering youth through education and career development.

The Clonakilty Agricultural College has a lot of interest on the day from local students.

Dyslexia Information event In November the Youth & Education working group hosted a webinar for both parents and professionals on supporting students with dyslexia in both upper primary and second level. This event equipped parents and educations with the practical tools to support students with dyslexia, a group often marginalised in traditional educational settings. By promoting understanding and inclusive strategies the project empowers families and professionals and professionals to create a more supportive learning environment that acknowledges each student’s unique needs.

Such events like this are so important as they extend beyond academics, addressing the social and emotional impacts of dyslexia, which can lead to isolation and low self-esteem.

Christmas Cooking Class for Kids With a focus on health & nutrition IRD Duhallow held 2 cookery classes for children aged 7-9 and 10-13 for 50 children. These interactive workshops provided a space where the children could learn valuable cooking skills that will stand to them for life. The focus on the classes was on healthy Christmas treats. The events encouraged children from diverse backgrounds to engage in shared activities. Deirdre Doyle from The Cool Food School delivered the two classes and proved very popular with all the children.

The Annual Careers Exhibition is always a popular event bringing colleges and other educational providers to one location for all students to meet on the day.

Boherbue Comprehensive Students; Orla Aherne Sheila O'Connor Caitlin O'Brien Mary Walsh Rachel Cronin and Aibhinn O'Riordan at the IRD Duhallow Careers Exhibition.

Deirdre Doyle from the Cool Food School with participants on the Christmas Cookery Class.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Employment And Training Community Education and Lifelong Learning Community Education and lifelong learning play a vital role in supporting individuals to build confidence, develop skills, and progress along educational and personal development pathways. IRD Duhallow places a strong emphasis on accessible, learner-led opportunities that respond to the needs of disadvantaged and marginalised groups. A range of community-based learning initiatives have been delivered over the past year including: Beginners and Intermediate Computers, Digital Skills for Smart Devices, and a well-attended Sustainability Seminar. These initiatives not only supported digital inclusion and lifelong learning but also encouraged greater community engagement and awareness of environmental issues.

Job Centre IRD Duhallow’s Job Centre continues to provide dedicated one-to-one support for individuals seeking to improve their employment prospects.

Through confidential sessions with our Development Officers, participants receive tailored assistance in areas such as CV and cover letter preparation, interview techniques, career exploration, and identifying suitable training or education opportunities to enhance their employability. The service is available to anyone who is unemployed, underemployed, or experiencing barriers to accessing work, including young people, lone parents, migrants, and others from disadvantaged backgrounds. In addition to individualised support, the Job Centre also offers valuable local labour market insights and can help participants build connections with potential employers. This comprehensive support empowers individuals to build confidence, make informed decisions, and take meaningful steps towards securing long-term employment.

Ciaran Carmody, Development Officer assisting a job seeker through IRD Duhallow’s Job Centre.

Labour Market Activation IRD Duhallow has successfully provided numerous training opportunities aimed at enhancing the skills of our rural community members, helping

them acquire new competencies and improve their employability.

Through the SICAP programme, we have delivered a variety of targeted training courses including: Safe Pass, Forklift Training, ATV Quad Bike Training, Customer Service, and more.

These short to medium length courses demonstrate the significant impact that focused, accessible education can have on personal development and career advancement. By equipping participants with practical, job-ready skills, we continue to support sustainable growth and opportunity within the local community.

Participants who completed the Manual Handling Instructor Training.

Bursaries In 2024, IRD Duhallow proudly provided support to two remarkable individuals through Adult & Second Chance Education bursaries. Both recipients of these grants are women, and the funding was allocated under the SICAP Goal 2 measure. This initiative empowers the participants to enhance their previous education, acquiring new skills and opening doors to exciting opportunities.

“I did a QQI level 5 course with Duhallow Skillnet and I graduated with eight distinctions.

It was my Level 5 Healthcare Support qualification that facilitated my admission into the Bachelor of Science Mental Health Nursing degree in MTU Tralee. The support awarded to me from the SICAP Progamme has not only eased some of the financial costs attached to attending third level education but has motivated me to continue SICAP Bursary Recipient Tracy Asemota striving for academic excellence and personal growth. I believe the grant I received through the SICAP Programme will have a lasting impact on my path forward into a career in mental health nursing and I look forward to progressing to year two of my degree course in the Autumn”.

Targeting Youth IRD Duhallow continues to address the evolving skills needs of young people in our region by engaging directly with them, their support networks, and relevant agencies. Over the past year, we have expanded our training offerings across vocational skills, digital literacy, and personal development, ensuring accessibility through both in-person and online delivery - a crucial element for those in rural areas.

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Mental health and wellbeing remain a priority, with ongoing initiatives that foster a safe and supportive environment where young people can openly express concerns and share ideas. Our free counselling service, Participants who completed SICAP funded Forklift Training and received their licences.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Employment And Training available to individuals aged 18 and over, remains a vital support.

We strengthened our partnerships with local schools, colleges, and universities through collaborative projects that enhance formal education. Our Laptop Loan Scheme continues to play a key role in bridging the digital divide, allowing learners to fully participate in education and training opportunities.

We delivered digital skills supports through a mix of traditional computer classes and more targeted workshops, including Smart Device Training, CV and Interview Preparation, and Public Speaking. These have proven effective in building both technical and soft skills.

Community engagement was promoted through youth-focused consultations and events, encouraging participation and feedback. We also supported young people to become more active in their local areas by connecting them with groups such as choirs, sports clubs, TidyTowns, drama, and music collectives.

North Cork Adult Education and Skills Network IRD Duhallow remains an active member of the North Cork Education and Skills Network, a collaborative platform that brings together a broad range of education and training stakeholders from across the region. This network plays a key role in strengthening inter-agency cooperation, facilitating the sharing of information, and aligning services to better meet the needs of learners and jobseekers in North Cork.

The network includes representatives from Local Development Companies, Education and Training Boards (ETBs), social welfare services, youth organisations, third-level institutions, business and chamber groups, as well as the HSE. Through ongoing participation, IRD Duhallow contributes to discussions that shape local education strategies, ensuring that rural and marginalised communities have a voice in regional planning and programme delivery.

Gillian Hampton is presented with her certificate for completing Smart Devices and Progressive Computer training by Minister Michael Moynihan.

all involved and spoke about the importance of lifelong learning in rural communities. It was a warm and uplifting afternoon, with certificates awarded to all course participants who completed their training throughout the year.

Alive: The Alive (Age-Inclusive Lifelong Learning) Project is an Erasmus+ project running from 2023-2026. The objective of the project is to address barriers to age-inclusive learning and to build sustainable enablers that will extend and enhance the engagement of older adults 55+ in higher education. In 2024, UCC facilitated two co-design workshops at IRD Duhallow to develop a microcredential based on participants' interests.

The resulting course, running in May 2025, focuses on digital skills and health - areas identified as priorities, especially in rural settings postpandemic.

Participants who completed one full day of training to receive their Safe Pass certificate.

Recognition of Learning Each year, IRD Duhallow hosts a Recognition of Learning event to celebrate the achievements of our learners and acknowledge the dedication and effort they put into their personal development. The 2025 event was a great success, with local Junior Minister Michael Moynihan attending as guest speaker. He commended the commitment shown by Lifelong Learning Participants with Finola McCarthy UCC participating in the ALIVE project in the Therapeutic Gardens

Emotional Support and Counselling Service Now it’s in 10th year IRD Duhallow‘s Emotional Support and Counselling Service is available by appointment to anyone over the age of 18, affected by mental ill health. The support service which is funded under the SICAP Job Centre Action in Goal 2 is completely confidential, non-judgmental and non-discriminatory. Very often people with lower incomes cannot afford counselling fees and therefore go without. The service is provided by five voluntary Counsellors / Psychotherapists (made up of student and pre-accredited therapists). This includes telephone listening and one to one Integrative counselling.

Learners celebrate at our 2025 Recognition of Learning Ceremony with the traditional hat toss.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Rural Social Scheme IRD Duhallow has been operating the RSS for over twenty years which provides vital support for smallholders in Duhallow.

if you’re in receipt of one of the above qualifying social welfare payments.

A Review of the Rural Social Scheme - Recommendations A review of the scheme was initiated in 2023 by a dedicated Steering Group which comprised of various Departments and organisations with representation including our CEO Maura Walsh who was one of the representatives of the Local Community Development Network.

Following the culmination of public consultations, case studies and inperson workshops which gained invaluable perspectives of all stakeholders. The Review of the Rural Social Scheme was launched in July 2024 and recommendations from the Steering Group were welcomed, some of which have been actioned and more we look forward to the roll out of in the coming year.

RSS participant Michael Lynch, Supervisor Colm O’Connor and RSS participants John Holmes and Wilie Walsh who attending Safe Pass training.

CEO Maura Walsh along with her counterparts of the Steering Group at the launch of the RSS Review In Mayo in July 2024.

Recommendations include: • A pilot scheme of 250 places available to ‘Rural Dwellers’ over 50 years of age on a social welfare payment.

• Extend the scheme to people engaged in farming who are not the holder of the herd number but who have a connection to the farm.

• Allow CE participants who have completed their 6 years on that scheme, are over 50 years of age and who have not progressed to employment to opt for the RSS on certain conditions including the participants’ capacity to secure other employment.

• Consider the feasibility of allowing a couple engaged in farming to both access the RSS. • The means reviews are undertaken at 3 yearly intervals, instead of the current annual review on the basis that farm incomes do not change significantly year on year.

• That participants on reaching 60 would be allowed remain on the scheme without any further review of means or circumstances until they reach 66.

Benefits of joining IRD Duhallow’s Rural Social Scheme The weekly hours are 19.5 hours which are farm friendly and flexible not to interfere with farming activities. As of January 2025, the minimum weekly payment is €271.50 and a Class A PRSI contribution is paid on behalf of all RSS participants. You will receive a rolling 3-year contract until you’re 66 years of age if you’re eligibility remains as well as paid annual leave, public holiday entitlements and access to training opportunities.

Rural Social Scheme Activities The scope of placement and project activities available means that those with specific skillsets or interests can avail of a multitude of fulfilling placements. The breadth of work being undertaken by the Rural Social Scheme is indeed amazing and their efforts are evident throughout the region. Work includes: providing maintenance in their local communities, sheltered housing and sporting facilities; preparing and delivering meals

Recruitment of new RSS participants IRD Duhallow is actively recruiting for new participants to join our team and believe the above recommendations will enhance any prospective interested individuals.

To be eligible to apply for a place you must be over 25 years of age, actively farming and in receipt of farm assist or a qualifying social welfare payment such as jobseeker's Allowance, Disability Allowance, One-Parent Family Payment, Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Contributory Pension or Widow's, Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Non-Contributory Pension.

For your application you will have to provide proof you’re actively farming by providing your Basic Income Support for Sustainability application including a valid herd number.

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The scheme also allows the option of a spouse/child/sibling of the herd number owner to participate using your parent or sibling’s herd number Our experienced team are able for all types of community projects.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Rural Social Scheme to the elderly and school lunches; providing a friendly phone call service; assistance with Duhallow Community Laundry, the collection service for Furniture Revamp as well as administrative support for Discover Duhallow and Furniture Revamp.

new role as Rural Recreation Officer with IRD Duhallow.

We have a dedicated experienced team who have construction experience and Supervisors work closely with local community groups to identify and scope maintenance projects including: addressing invasive species, walks development and heritage projects. The identification and enhancement work on these types of projects contribute to the sustainability of communities by providing additional or indeed enhancing our local amenities. Earlier in the year we were delighted when Minister Jerry Buttimer visited IRD Duhallow and met with members of the RSS team to see their hard work in action.

CEO Maura Walsh made presentations to participants Brian Feehan and Tom Healy who both retired this year.

Years of service This year Tony Angland and Niall Burke were applauded for their completion of ten years on the scheme.

Testimony - Niall Burke I started on the Tus scheme in 2013 and that’s how I got the opportunity to go on the Rural Social Scheme as I work on the family farm. During my 19.5 hours I look after collections for the Laundry and Furniture Revamp. I like meeting people so the RSS has given me that opportunity and I would say to anyone to go on the RSS as it would give you good work experience.

RSS participant Tadhg Curtin, Minister Jerry Buttimer, Tus participants Lidiia Surnina & Maryna Sliusarenko along with RSS Supervisor Marie Fleming who informed the Minister about the integrated manner we operate schemes at IRD Duhallow and the wide variety of work placement opportunities available.

A

B

C

A: Social Economy Working Group Chairperson Mary Wallace making a presentation to Niall Burke at our annual Christmas dinner on the occasion of being 10 years on RSS. B: Niall busy on the farm making sure all the jobs get done.

C: Niall does a great job with Duhallow Community Laundry looking after all the collections and deliveries.

The snow at the start of the year certainly caught us all on the hop but supervisors and participants from both RSS and Tus stepped up and ensured no one was with out food, medicine or fuel.

IRD Duhallow Rural Social Scheme Team We said farewell to Brian Feehan and Tom Healy who retired from the scheme after a combined 32 years of service. We are very grateful to Brian and Tom who did tremendous work whilst on the scheme and sincerely wish them both a happy retirement.

In the past year participants Margaret Murphy, George O’Connor, Sean O’Connell and John O’Flynn also left the scheme and we would like to thank them for their dedication and hard work during their many years with us and wish each of them the very best for the future.

Finally, we would like to acknowledge the work done by Colm O’Connor who Supervised the team since 2021 and wish him the best of luck in his

In Remembrance In June we were devastated to hear of the passing of our colleague DJ Sheehan. DJ joined IRD Duhallow in December 2013 and is remembered fondly by all his colleagues. DJ did tremendous work on a number of projects, one of his first was plastering the newly built DCFS building in Newmarket. He was a member also of the Warmer Homes Scheme, his strong work ethic was evident and no project was too big for him to tackle.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Tús Tús is an activation initiative that is in existence in Duhallow for 15 years supporting those who are unemployed and on the Live Register.

Unemployed people who are eligible for the scheme are randomly selected and contacted by their social welfare local office and offered the opportunity to participate in the scheme. The programme is managed at a local level by IRD Duhallow on behalf of the Department of Social Protection. IRD Duhallow manages three schemes with 60 places and we currently have vacancies across Duhallow including South East Kerry, North and Mid Cork. IRD Duhallow ensures that Tús placements are tailored to match participants’ interests and local priorities. The wraparound supports such as career guidance, mental health services, and mentoring enhances the long-term impact of the programme. The aim is not merely to provide temporary employment but to re-engage individuals with the labour market by enhancing their skills, confidence, and work readiness. Participants are placed with community and voluntary organisations to carry out valuable local projects, from environmental improvements to childcare support, heritage conservation, and community development initiatives.

Occupational Skills Development For many long-term unemployed individuals in Duhallow, formal education may have been a negative experience, confidence in job readiness may be low and there may be little exposure to workplace practices. Tús addresses these barriers by providing hands-on learning in real work settings, allowing participants to acquire both hard and soft skills that are transferable to the open labour market. Depending on their placement, participants can develop practical, job-specific skills across a variety of sectors including Administration and IT, Maintenance and Environmental work, social and community care and retail/customer services. These experiences not only build new competencies but often refresh existing ones that participants may not have used in years. In many cases, it's not just technical skills that are missing but also the everyday habits and attitudes needed to succeed in a job. Tús helps participants build critical soft skills, such as Time Management, Teamwork, communication, problem solving and self confidence. These skills provide a strong foundation for re-entering the workforce and are highly valued by employers across all sectors.

Supervisor Marie Fleming, Community Development Team Leader Triona Dennehy, Jamie Ronan Executive Officer Department of Social Protection, Tina O’Rahilly, Higher Executive Officer Department of Social Protection & CEO Maura Walsh following a fruitful discussion on the impact of the Tus scheme.

Tús Supervisor, Don Murphy meeting Minister Jerry Buttimer to show him the restoration works being completed by participants.

How Tús makes a difference Tús acts as a crucial intervention in Duhallow by connecting unemployed individuals with meaningful community work. In addition to the top up of social welfare payments, participants reap the many rewards of participating on the scheme including hands-on experience in roles such as administration, maintenance, or social care, improving their employability. These practical skills often lead to permanent employment following their placement. Long-term unemployment can erode selfworth and social engagement. Tús placements restore a sense of routine, purpose, and community involvement, helping participants rebuild their confidence and develop a professional identity. Unemployment can lead to isolation. The community-based nature of Tús ensures that participants reconnect with their community, local services, and support networks.

Tús supports Local Services including Duhallow Community Food Services, Duhallow Warmer Homes Scheme, Duhallow REVAMP, Village Renewal, community centres, sporting clubs etc. Much-needed human resources are obtained through Tús to sustain their services. This dual benefit to both participant and community makes the programme highly cost-effective and socially valuable. Tús can serve as a stepping stone toward further training or education. Many participants are inspired to pursue new qualifications after their placements. Another strength of the Tús programme in Duhallow is its tailored placement process. Supervisors work closely with each participant to identify interests, previous experience, and career aspirations. This approach ensures that the skills developed are not only practical but also aligned with the participant’s personal goals whether that’s working in hospitality, administration, childcare, or conservation.

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CV Enhancement A significant challenge for the long-term unemployed is the gap on their CV, which can deter potential employers. Tús gives participants current, relevant work experience to fill that gap. Being able to show recent, verifiable employment on a CV particularly with a reference from a community organisation can substantially improve a person's chances of securing a permanent job.

Participation in the Tús programme often opens the door to further education and vocational training through SICAP. Many participants

Tús participant Serhii Sinitskyi who completed certified chainsaw training.

Tús Supervisor, Don Murphy with participants , Lech Kaminski, Edward Panchenko and Aidan Horgan who completed SAFE PASS training.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Tús avail of upskilling opportunities including Health and Safety Certification e.g., Manual Handling, Safe Pass, Quad Bike, First Aid and Child Protection Training, Computer literacy and personal development courses and onthe-job coaching and mentoring. Participants have access to IRD Duhallow’s Job Centre support for CV writing, interview preparation, and information about progression routes into formal training (e.g., QQI Level courses). This integrated support system helps ensure that skills learned on the job are recognised, built upon, and used as a springboard for longterm employment.

continue in their work placement, avail of tailored training thereby building up their self esteem and improving their future employability opportunities.

Tús participants play a vital role in setting up halls and amenities for community events throughout Duhallow.

Michael Healy-Rae Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with special responsibility for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture meeting Tús participant Marcella Dillon who recently started her year placement in Duhallow Revamp.

Tús supervisor William Lucid completing induction with Tús participants Adedeola Akinbote, Rao Atiq Ur Rehman and Jodie O’Mahony.

Supervisor Don Murphy with Jordan O’Riordan, Tús participant who is gathering content for the Discover Duhallow Magazine

Life after Tús...

Tús offers one-year community-based work placements and this plays a crucial role in the reintegration process. A significant proportion of participants move directly into employment following their Tús placement. The real-world work experience, renewed confidence, and updated skills gained during the programme are critical factors in helping individuals compete for jobs. Former Tús participants have found employment in sectors such as the Community and voluntary organisations (often where they were placed), retail and hospitality, construction, health and social care and administration and clerical work.

Employers value the reliability and commitment Tús participants often demonstrate, knowing they have completed a structured year-long work programme. Having contributed to community projects during their placement, many participants develop a deeper sense of civic pride and continue to volunteer after their contract ends.

For those participants quite not ready for the labour market, they progress on to our Community Employment Scheme which allows them to

Case Study - Brendon Purchase My experience with the Tús programme has been incredibly rewarding.

I was fortunate to avail of an additional six months which allowed me to continue to contribute to the community. As a magazine publisher for Discover Duhallow, I have had the opportunity to engage with local stories, promote regional events and highlight the unique aspects of our area. This role has helped to develop my skills in writing and editing and I have gained valuable experience in content creation.

Although I have not yet availed of any training opportunities, I am currently exploring options in graphic design through an online college.

I believe that enhancing my design skills will benefit my work with the magazine and open up new avenues for growth. I am grateful for the opportunities provided by IRD Duhallow and will continue to enjoy my work on the Discover Duhallow Brendon Purchase who progressed from Tús to CE and is working as an editor on the Discover Duhallow Magazine

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Community Employment Scheme IRD Duhallow’s CE Scheme IRD Duhallow runs its Community Employment Scheme on behalf of the Department of Social Protection. We run our scheme as part of the wider supports the company offers to the unemployed and underemployed.

While Tús helps people take the first steps back to a work environment, CE goes that step further by developing individual learner plans and helps participants identify the type of work they would ultimately like to engage in and strives to place people in a work environment that compliments their goals. This is why Tús and Ce work extremely well together.

Joanne O’Keffee work in Duhallow Community Food Services as part of the CE scheme

Our scheme currently has 45 places; the scheme is a busy one. The range of work experience on the scheme is wide and varied and we are continually working with our Social Welfare HEO Elaine McDermott to ensure the scheme is relevant to the participants, the communities we serve and the requirements of the CE Scheme. The scheme covers a vast area, the communities of Ballydesmond, Rathcoole, Boherbue, Ballydaly, Kilcorney, Dromtarriffe, Lyre, Newmarket, Kiskeam, Knocknagree, Cullen and Banteer. The scheme also provides support to community enterprise initiatives including Meals on wheels, Community Laundry, Furniture Revamp, Duhallow Community Food Services and Discover Duhallow.

The role CE plays in these communities, cannot be underestimated.

To participate in the Community Employment scheme, you must register with your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office. You must be receiving a qualifying social welfare payment for 12 months prior to your application to be eligible.

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 fund specific training courses, which have a QQI, SOLAS, City and Guilds or other Certificate qualifications for participants.

The Supervisor encourages all participants to consider Specific Training so that they can up skill and improve their confidence and Self-esteem on a personal level and improve their chances of gaining employment as Participants Barry O’Shea and this is the main object of the Mark Cotter attend Crosscutting & Community Employment Scheme.

Maintenance Course.

IRD Duhallow also runs a Skillnet training programme, this invaluable resource is utilised by the scheme for other training throughout the year.

This affords our participant’s wide opportunity to access desired education and training programmes.

Assistant Supervisor Amanda Keller with CE participant Mark Ware who works in Knocknagree GAA pitch as part of his placement.

Martin O’Neill delivers Discover Duhallow magazines across the Duhallow region as part of his work placement of CE.

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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.

Over the past year, participants took part in Manual Handling, Truck Theory test category C, Safe Pass, Graphic Design Diploma, Upholstery, Adult Education, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Excel for Beginners and Intermediate level, Introduction to Sugar Craft, Handheld Pesticides training, Safeguarding Child Protection in Sport Awareness and Bookkeeping SAGE and Windows. All the courses undertaken by participants are certified through SOLAS, QQI or City and Guilds.

"When I started on the CE Scheme, I was looking for something new and challenging. I have met many interesting people and have learnt new skills and abilities. Every day I have found new challenges, and each day brings something new which makes the job more interesting."

Thomas Culloty, Caretaker of James O’Keeffe Building.

Tommy Culloty works in the JOK complex and fulfils caretaking duties as party of CE.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Community Employment Rehabilitation Scheme IRD Duhallow’s CE Rehabilitation Scheme is supported by the Southern Regions Task Force and the Department of Social Protection. This scheme is based on a work placement that provides a developmental opportunity for those recovering from substance misuse, that supports individuals in secondary treatment and early recovery from addiction. It empowers participants to access meaningful education and training, set clear career goals, and build the confidence and skills needed to achieve them.

Anthony preparing for a busy day ahead on the CE Rehabilitation Scheme with Supervisor Elmarie Young

door to a future full of new and unimaginable possibilities. It requires the courage to seek and accept support, and the willingness to be open, honest, and committed to change.

Tom Quinlan and Jennifer O’Sullivan from Coolmine Treatment Centre

Each participant receives tailored supports based on their personal aspirations, with a strong focus on identifying career paths and developing the practical skills and attributes required for long-term success. The scheme corelates in a holistic approach on the personal and professional development of each participant. It supports everyone in creating a personalised timetable aligned with their interests and goals, and ensures referred participants have access to appropriate and on-going treatment and recovery supports while on the CE Rehabilitation Scheme.

Modelled on successful initiatives in other areas, this programme fills a critical gap in rural recovery support. Recovery is a journey of ongoing personal growth and self-reflection. It involves building deeper connections—with oneself, with the community, and offers a strong support network and comprehensive care. Through collaboration with the Southern Regional Drugs Task Force and the Department of Social Protection, the programme leverages shared resources to enhance its effectiveness.

"Changing the Narrative" Wellness morning was held in IRD Duhallow on 10th September 2024 in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day and National Recovery Month.

The event was to provide a mental health wellness morning and provide information on the local support services which are Speaker Alice O’Brien, Cognitive Behavioural available to people in their Guest Therapist speaking during National Recovery community. Over 60 people Month and National Suicide Prevention Day were in attendance on the day, and everyone received a gift bag on arrival. The guest speakers were Alice O'Brien CBT Therapist who presented on thinking styles and worry, Dawn from Ganapati School of Yoga who did meditation and chair yoga with everyone in attendance, and Dolores Tiernan from the Grove Addiction Treatment Centre who gave a talk on addiction and how it manifests. There were a number of local services that attended with pop up stands including Coolmine, ALONE, The Grove, Grow, and Eriu.

Guest speakers Doloras Tiernan from Coolmine and Alice O Brien CBT Therapist with CE Rehabilitation Scheme Supervisor Elmarie Young

On this scheme, we believe in the potential of every participant to achieve the goals they set for themselves. Building on the progress made during primary and secondary treatment, our focus is to support everyone in creating a new life in recovery – one day at a time. Participants are referred through addiction counsellors and treatment centres. The scheme offers a structured path with access to SICAP and Skillnet opportunities including Personal Development Community Education, Labour Market Training and Employment Supports.

We are proud to offer a diverse and innovative programme that provides meaningful opportunities, and outcomes for everyone involved. Recovery from addiction is not simply about breaking free from substances or gambling—it's the beginning of a transformative journey that opens the

Dolores Tiernan, The Grove gave a thoughtful insight into addiction during the Changing the Narrative Information Session

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Revamp Since 2016, IRD Duhallow, with support from the Community Services Programme, has operated the Duhallow Furniture REVAMP project. This social enterprise provides affordable, good-quality second-hand furniture and valuable restoration services, while also supporting those on social welfare, students, and low-income households. Through this work, REVAMP continues to grow in popularity within the Duhallow region.

REVAMP is more than a furniture shop. It is a community-driven initiative that promotes sustainability, empowers individuals with skills, and breathes new life into preloved furniture. Its dual focus on circular economy principles and social inclusion makes it an essential part of the region’s social and environmental fabric.

Krzysztof Lichoribiec has been a valued staff member in Revamp for many years and is our expert in fixing couches. Kris rewebs a round back chair for a customer.

Customer Voice The satisfaction of our customers is the priority of the REVAMP team. One such testimonial comes from Brid, who had a range of upholstery work carried out: “Anytime I need something fixed or reupholstered I would not go to anyone other than IRD Duhallow Revamp. The staff are so friendly and always willing to give advice.For example, I had a chair reupholstered and I was probably going to go with a boring plain fabric but went on the advice of the staff (of using two different fabrics) and am thrilled with the result.

The work is amazing.

Fabulous furniture always on offer at fabulous prices.

We are so lucky to have this service on our doorstep!”

Upskilling & Employment REVAMP’s commitment to community extends to skill development and work activation. Through Tús, Community Employment (CE), and Rural Social Scheme (RSS) placements, participants receive hands-on training in upholstery, woodwork, furniture repair, and customer service.

Staff and senior participants are encouraged to pass on their knowledge and expertise. This peer-to-peer learning environment builds confidence and capability, while strengthening the work culture. In addition to internal training, REVAMP maintains an active relationship with the Skillnet programme, which allows participants to access certified external training in relevant skills and trades.

Services REVAMP continues to respond to customer needs by expanding its range of services. In addition to the sale of second-hand furniture, the team now provides: • Full re-upholstery services for chairs, sofas, and armchairs • Wood repairs and refinishing • Couch repairs, such as spring replacement and cushion re-stuffing

Before and after pictures of Brid’s chair, uniquely revamped with two beautiful fabric.

DUHALLOW REVAMP continues to serve as a model for how a local, community-based initiative can make a tangible difference. From environmental impact to human development, it champions social enterprise in action. With strong foundations and continued support, the project looks forward to another year of meaningful work and community service.

These services are especially valuable to those looking to preserve sentimental items or extend the life of their existing furniture, reducing waste and making a valuable impact.

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Anne O’Connor weaving a child’s Sugan chair, a skill acquired during her C.E. scheme in Revamp.

Catriona McSweeney, assisting Chris Bailey with her purchase, is Revamp’s customer service advisor. Her friendly manner making everyone welcome.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Circular Economy IRD Duhallow continues to lead the way in promoting the circular economy and advancing social enterprise activities aligned with sustainable practices. The European Commission adopted the new Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP) in March 2020. The EU’s transition to a circular economy aims to reduce pressure on natural resources and to create sustainable growth and jobs. This action plan adopts initiatives along the entire life cycle of products, targeting how products are designed. Strategies such as repair, recycling, and redesign will help achieve the EU 2050 climate neutrality target and halt biodiversity loss.

Currently, the EU generates 2.5 billion tonnes of waste annually highlighting the urgent need for such an approach.

Revamp at Kerry Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day Revamp was selected by the Paint Reuse Network to participate in Kerry County Councils Household Hazardous Waste Free Drop-Off Day in Tralee on September 14th 2024. This initiative was coordinated by Enva, provider of waste management and resource recovery solutions in Ireland, in collaboration with the Paint Reuse Network. Similar events took place in Wicklow and Donegal as part of a broader effort to encourage the reuse of hazardous household materials and to collect valuable data on reuse volumes. As part of this initiative, Revamp collected 920kg of reusable paint to support the Relove Paint project and promote the brand.

waste management as a practical and effective way of tackling Ireland’s growing waste problem. The annual CRNI conference entitled Future LOOP for Circular Communities was held on October 8th at Dublin Airfield Estate. Future LOOP is shorthand for a circular Ireland that CRNI’s members are all working towards. It’s an imagined point in the future, it’s a vision of sustainable circular communities that are equally benefitting from reuse and repair activities. The event featured engaging panel discussions exploring the practical realities of operating as a social enterprise within the circular economy and examining how to foster effective and scalable solutions.

Relove Paint Relove paint is a quality, water based remixed emulsion paint, made in Cork. This paint which would otherwise be destined for disposal, is collected from civic amenity sites in Cork city and county and then filtered, remixed, recoloured and repackaged on site at IRD Duhallow to produce Relove Paint. IRD Duhallow and Cork County Council continue to collaborate to promote the award-winning Relove Paint initiative through a free paint giveaway to community projects. To date, over 3,000 litres of paint were distributed to 165 community projects - and this initiative has been growing year on year.

A delegation from Cork County Council, Southern Waste Region and Kerry County Council visited IRD Duhallow Relove Paint initiative in view to conducting a pilot project for a similar enterprise.

Patrick Hassett, Jessica Baron, Dan Sweeney and Colm O’Connor at Enva’s Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day in Tralee. IRD Duhallow Revamp collected any viable paint brought in by the general public to be reused instead of disposed of.

Funded in part by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) via Cork County Council, the Relove Paint project encourages local individuals and businesses to recycle their unused paint by bringing it to designated amenity sites, knowing it will be repurposed for community benefit.

Unused water-based paint is collected from four local civic amenity sites - Kanturk, Millstreet, Macroom, and Mallow. High-quality, reused paint is made available at an affordable rate of €15 for a five-litre bucket.

Community Resources Network Ireland Duhallow REVAMP is an active member of the CRNI who is a representative body for community based reuse, repair and recycling organisations in Ireland. Their aim is to provide a range of practical supports to members, and to promote community based, sustainable

Panel discussion with CRNI members at the annual CRNI Conference. The event took place on October 8th 2024 and was attended by Colm O’Connor and Jessica Baron on behalf of Revamp.

Therese Walsh, RSS participant with Yvonne McCarthy from St-Mary’s Secondary school availing of the Free Paint to Communities Scheme in conjunction with Cork County Council.

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Duhallow Community Laundry Duhallow Community Laundry was set up over a decade ago, to ensure independent living for the elderly and support carers as well as lowincome households. The service continues to go from strength to strength.

Community Services Programme (CSP) Duhallow Community Laundry is very grateful to be receiving CSP supports which supports our service to provide local social, economic and environmental services through a social enterprise model. CSP tackles disadvantage by providing a co-funding contribution towards the direct salary cost of employing a manager, and full-time equivalent positions.

We were delighted to get the opportunity to show Minister Jerry Buttimer our facility when he visited in April and relay to him how important this social enterprise is to all who avail of it and that the support of CSP from his Department is vital to ensure its continuity.

Joan Sheehan showing Minister Jerry Buttimer the ropes in the laundry.

can generate sufficient revenue to cover costs and invest in the social goals and strengthen our social value.

Governance and Staffing Under the stewardship of the Social Economy Working Group and Board who support the service by ensuring it remains viable and accessible to all in our society and most importantly that the level of quality and service continues to excel.

Along with the staffing support Agnes O’Sullivan collecting her laundry from Stefania Propenko. from the CSP, the service is also supported by Pobal and the Department of Social Protection through Tus, the Rural Social Scheme and the Community Employment Scheme. Supervisor Anita Castle is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the service and ensures that all the staff receive appropriate employment and training opportunities whilst on their placements such as customer service, financial and administration skills. The team consists of CE participants Christine Begley and Joan Sheehan; Tús participants Iryna Ovcharuk, Stefaniia Propenko, Mariia Strelnykova and Inna Serhienko; RSS participant Niall Burke looks after our collections and deliveries which is a an integral facet of our service as it allows those to avail of the laundry Supervisor Anita Castle co-ordinates all collections and ensures the team are who might not have otherwise due maintaining the reputable high standards. to no access to transport.

Business Coaching Sessions - AT+ Programme The Achieve Together Social Innovation Coaching and Mentoring Programme (AT+) is co-funded between the Government of Ireland and the European Union under the Employment, Inclusion, Skills, and Training Programme (EIST), Ireland’s ESF+ programme for 2021-2027, which is managed by The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

The aim of the programme is to strengthen the capacity of participating organisations to grow their enterprise or service and capacity for social innovation. Duhallow Community Laundry is currently availing of coaching and mentoring which allows us to identify opportunities to innovate and to maximise our relevance and sustainability, so that we

The superb laundry team from left to right Iryna Ovcharuk, Inna Serhienko, Mariia Strelnykova, Christine Begley, Joan Sheehan, Stefania Propenko & Supervisor Anita Castle.

I have used the laundry service regularly for a number of years now and am very happy with it.

They wash and iron both my clothing and bedding and occasionally I have my duvets done.

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Marie Fleming attending the launch of the AT+ Achieve Together Social Innovation Coaching and Mentoring Programme for CSP.

Friends of mine who use the collection and delivery service are also very pleased with it and find it very helpful. The staff are always very welcoming, helpful and always in good form.

I am so lucky to have this facility and a big thank you to all who are and have been a part of it long may it continue.

Carey Gould

Testimony Carey Gould

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Warmer Homes Initiative Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme (BEWHS) Since its inception in 2006, IRD Duhallows Warmer Homes Scheme has insulated over 4,950 houses across Cork City and County, South Limerick, and all of County Kerry. Works carried out by our installation teams includes attic insulation, cavity wall insulation and roof and wall ventilation.

The scheme is funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and Pobal, through the Community Services Programme In recent years SEAI 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 (NCE) through SE Systems in Cork to deliver these additional measures to our customers.

MEP Sean Kelly talking to Colm Crowley during a visit to IRD Duhallow earlier in 2025.

Better Energy Homes (BEH) In 2024, IRD Duhallow completed insulation works on 71 houses under the BEH scheme. Under this scheme, householders must apply online to SEAI for attic and Cavity Wall insulation grants. SEAI provides grants of up to €3,200 for a detached house, €2,500 for semidetached and €2,000 for a midterrace house. A BER (Building Energy Rating) Certificate must be generated for each completed house by an independent assessor.

A €50 grant is available towards the cost of this BER. Better Energy Communities Programme (BEC) In 2025, IRD Duhallow carried out attic and cavity wall insulation work to 11 houses through projects funded through the BEC programme under Northside Community Enterprises, and SE Systems in Cork. Further attic insulation works are planned for a church and 3 properties in Cork City later this year.

Energy Audits & Solar PV (Solar Photovoltaics) Through IRD Duhallow and SE Systems, free energy audits are available to businesses and community centres that have an annual energy spend of €10,000 or

more. These energy audits highlight where energy saving measures can be delivered to reduce energy costs.

For householders, a free survey is also available to assess if houses are suitable for Solar PV. SEAI grants of €1,800 are available for these works.

Continuous Training & Quality Assurance Training is an essential part of our service where staff are kept up to date with industry standards. These include Manual Handling, Working Noel Heffernan starting up the compressor at Heights, Abrasive Wheel, Mobile used during delivery of cavity wall insulation.

Tower Scaffold, Installer Insulation training, and Safe Pass. Our cavity crew received training from Envirobead Insulation on surveying and insulation and are certified with the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) to deliver Cavity Wall Insulation. KSN oversees the quality control for all SEAI funded schemes.

Local Employment The Warmer Homes Scheme is partially staffed through the Community Services Programme (CSP) which contributes towards the employment of a coordinator and 5 Full Time Equivalents (FTE’s), with these roles split between Administration, Attic and Cavity Wall teams, Ventilation teams and a Surveyor/Quality Control Officer. Pobal increased funding for CSP supported organisations in 2025. IRD Duhallow received an additional €1,755 per FTE, bringing the total rate per annum to €24,930. The scheme is further supported through several labour schemes including RSS, CE, and the Tús Schemes all of which supply participants to work with teams insulating attics and cavity walls.

Richard Sullivan completing installation of insulation in a customer’s attic under the Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme.

Warmer Homes Installers Noel Heffernan, Andrii Tsybka, Richard Sullivan, Tom Cambridge and Trevor Kelleher outside a customer’s house recently.

Installer Trevor Kelleher pumping insulation into cavity wall in a house completed by IRD Duhallow Warmer Homes.

Tom Cambridge installing a roof vent to provide sufficient ventilation to a completed attic installation.

Achieve Together Social Innovation Coaching and Mentoring Programme (AT+) Pobal rolled out this programme in 2025 to assist Community Services Programme (CSP) funded services to advance their organization’s performance and impact. IRD Duhallow is one of the CSP funded groups selected for this programme. The aim of this programme is to innovate and grow the service, maximize sustainability and provide professional guidance through mentoring and coaching through industry experts. IRD Duhallows Community Laundry, Revamp and Warmer Homes Scheme services are availing of this programme.

Colm Crowley at the launch of Pobal’s AT+ programme in Portlaoise earlier this year. This programme aims to help CSP groups innovate and grow their services and maximize sustainability through mentoring and coaching from industry experts.

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Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) Linda O’Connor – Manager, DCFS Appointed Manager of DCFS in 2021, Linda O’Connor oversees the daily operations of the business with a strong focus on quality, efficiency, and client satisfaction. She holds a Higher Certificate in Arts & Culinary Arts, a Diploma in Professional Cookery, and a QQI Level 6 qualification in Supervisory Management. With over 18 years of experience in the catering industry, Linda brings extensive expertise from her work across the public, private, and healthcare sectors.

About Us Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) has been proudly serving the local community since 1994. For over three decades, we have provided essential support to older people and those unable to cook for themselves, helping them maintain independence, dignity, and a better quality of life.

Our primary service is the delivery of hot, nutritious meals at an affordable cost—focused on supporting elderly individuals and those at risk of social isolation or exclusion. Today, DCFS prepares and delivers nearly 40,000 meals for senior citizens per year, making it a lifeline for many in our region.

While we receive staffing support from the Community Services Programme (CSP) and a small grant from the HSE, rising costs have made sustaining this vital work increasingly challenging. To help bridge the funding gap and continue meeting community needs, DCFS has developed several complementary services, including: • Community Restaurant • In-House Bakery • Outside Catering Services • Meals Services for Secondary Schools and Crèches • Primary Schools Hot Lunch Programme Rural Meals Service Our award-winning community enterprise committed to providing subsidised meals to individuals who are unable to cook for themselves due to age, illness, lack of transport, or other disadvantages, particularly in rural areas.

Supporting Health & Education in the Duhallow Region At DCFS, we continue to strengthen our role as a key community-based service provider in the Duhallow region. Our core focus remains on promoting healthy eating habits among children, young people, and the wider community. We believe that adequate nutrition, delivered through freshly prepared meals, plays a vital role in helping children focus, learn, and grow both inside and outside the Sarah Dyer & Vanessa Higgins labelling for our hot school meals programme. classroom.

Over the past year, we have expanded and strengthened our food provision services across a range of local settings. We now provide over 12,000 meals per week to the following key facilities: • Coláiste Treasa and Scoil Mhuire, Kanturk • Banteer Childcare Facility • Newmarket Afterschool’s Programme • Weekly Active Retirement Group gatherings • Multiple Primary Schools throughout the Duhallow area These services not only ensure access to healthy, affordable meals but also support the overall wellbeing of children and older adults in our community.

Our operations continue to have a strong positive impact on local employment, with food preparation, delivery, and coordination roles contributing to the local economy. By sourcing ingredients locally wherever possible and preparing meals fresh each day, we reinforce our commitment to sustainability, quality, and community development.

As we look ahead, DCFS remains committed to meeting the nutritional needs of our community while supporting local services and employment. We are proud to be part of a regional effort that places the health and wellbeing of children, families, and older adults at the centre of everyday life in Duhallow.

Other Services To support the continued delivery of our essential Meals on Wheels programme - one of the most important and impactful services we offer - DCFS engages in a number of commercial activities.

Community Spirit, farmers helping clear DCFS car park during the bad snow in January.

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We provide meals to senior citizens and others in need, offering a vital service that directly enhances their health and well-being. This initiative not only ensures access to nutritious, affordable, and accessible meals but also provides a crucial source of social contact and connection for many older individuals who are vulnerable to social isolation and exclusion. Clients can choose from home delivery, meal collection, or dining in the community restaurant, with a wide variety of options tailored to individual needs. Our continued commitment to providing these essential services supports national efforts to help older people live independently in their own homes, reducing the need for hospital or residential care admissions.

Trish Morley preparing for our Meals on Wheels delivery’s.

Operating a large-scale meal production and distribution service to homes in rural and isolated areas comes with significant logistical and

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) financial challenges. Our commercial ventures are designed not only to help offset these costs, but also to further strengthen our engagement with the local community.

One such venture is our on-site restaurant in Newmarket, which has become a popular social space for individuals of all ages. The restaurant serves freshly made pastries, cakes, and Joanne O Connor & Fran Hendry preparing for a meals scones alongside speciality on wheels delivery route. coffees. An all-day breakfast menu is available, as well as a carvery lunch. In addition, a wide-ranging à la carte menu is offered throughout the day. Both indoor and outdoor dining options are available, and all dietary requirements are fully catered for. The restaurant continues to provide a warm, inclusive, and welcoming meeting point for both young and old, reinforcing our commitment to community wellbeing.

Awards, where we are proud to prepare, cook, and serve a fourcourse gala banquet. This year, we were both honoured and humbled to be nominated for an award and were thrilled to be announced as the winner of the Best Social Enterprise category. This recognition is a reflection of our team's Olga Homon finalising desserts for an event. dedication and the ongoing support of the Duhallow community.

Through these services, DCFS continues to build on our mission of delivering high-quality food while supporting social inclusion, community engagement, and local employment Staffing While Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) provides a vital service to the community, it also serves as an important work placement and training hub - particularly for those who are long-term unemployed. At DCFS, staff and participants have the opportunity to develop a broad range of valuable skills, including: • Baking and Sugar Craft • Cooking and Food Preparation • Customer Service and Care • Meal Delivery and Driving • Front-of-House Service • Teamwork and Communication We are proud to support and partner with several employment and activation programmes, including the (CSP), Rural Social Scheme, Tús, and CE schemes. These partnerships are vital in supporting our workforce and providing local employment opportunities, especially for those who may not be able to commute to larger urban centres.

Maciej Piotrowski Hot kitchen supervisor, Joanne O Connor Dispatch supervisor, Olive Casey Administrator, Hilary Boyle Restaurant/Bakery Supervisor & Linda O Connor Manager at Duhallow Food Services.

Duhallow Community Foods Team 2025.

DCFS also offers a comprehensive outside catering service for a variety of occasions, including birthdays, communions, confirmations, funerals, and community events.

At DCFS, we believe in the potential of every individual. Training and development are core to our ethos - staff are actively encouraged to take part in both professional and personal development opportunities that enhance employability and build confidence for the future.

Governance Duhallow Community Food Services operates under the direction of a voluntary Board of 14 members who meet monthly to provide strategic oversight and governance. The Board plays a critical role in ensuring that the organisation remains compliant, accountable, and aligned with its mission to support vulnerable members of the community through the provision of food services.

International Women’s Day Brunch prepared & served by DCFS

Our team specialises in celebration cakes and homemade baking, and we also provide BBQ catering services. This service has proven to be a valuable resource for local families and groups planning special events.

A major annual highlight for our catering team is the Duhallow Business

Board members bring a diverse range of professional backgrounds and expertise, contributing valuable insights to help guide DCFS through both opportunities and challenges. Their commitment and voluntary service ensure that the organisation continues to operate efficiently, ethically, and sustainably.

Strong governance remains a cornerstone of our success, enabling DCFS to maintain public trust, deliver high-quality services, and respond effectively to evolving community needs.

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Large Scale Capital Projects The village of Rylane is gearing up for the start of construction on their new multi use community facility in the coming weeks. Having been approved funding under the Community Centre Investment Fund in 2024 work has been underway behind the scenes in preparation for construction to commence. The Community Centre Investment Fund New Build Measure is the first ever dedicated fund for the development of new build centres in rural Ireland. The objective of which is to develop high quality, accessible, safe, well-designed, sustainable new build community centres to meet the needs of the community into the future.

This new measure is under the Programme for Government: ‘Our Shared Future’ which is committed to the introduction of a capital grants programme for the new builds of community centres and is administered by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

3D Image of new community centre.

professional services of an architect led design team. RDF Architects based in Charleville were the winning bid and work commenced in May on this Stage. The next stage is the call for tenders for the construction which is expected to start in the coming weeks.

CCIF Steering Group: Maura Walsh & Helen O’Sullivan of IRD Duhallow meeting with the Rylane Community Park Association committee to discuss the design and build.

At the time of application, the Department deemed that applications for funding had to entail projects that were shovel ready and Rylane having worked closely with IRD Duhallow over the 5 years prior was in the right place to apply. With funding of €1,595,574 approved IRD Duhallow is the lead applicant in the project on behalf of the community to support them and oversee the project through to fruition. This is a major achievement for the small rural community of Rylane and huge potential exists for this new centre once opened to be the focal point of the village bringing everyone together. The RCPA committee have always approached this project from the bottom up approach to rural development. Drawings of the new building have been put on display at various community events to showcase the project to the wider community and to keep everyone informed of their biggest project yet.

Keeping the community informed: Emily Scannell, Niall Ring, Willlie Dennehy & Dan Scannell viewing the drawings of the new build which was on display to the public at the recent Rylane Community Family Fun Day.

The RCPA are a small community group who recognised as far back as 2013 the need to establish a community facility for the village. This was identified through community consultations which commenced following a LEADER funded Village Design statement which was developed to support the community to set realistic and achievable goals. The RCPA are an extremely enthusiastic group who undertake a number of community events and projects annually and it is great to see people coming onto a committee to help revive their community and are looking to future proof their facilities for the next generation.

Proposed look of the new Community Hall in Rylane

Martina Casey RCPA showing the plans to Mary & Alan Browne Rylane and Michael & Margaret Twomey Aghabullogue.

3D Image of new community centre.

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Full procurement is now complete on Stage 1 of the project for the

IRD Duhallow is lead partner in this large scale capital project and the Department of Rural and Community Development has been extremely accommodating in this whole process providing supports along the way and we look forward to bringing this project to completion for the summer of 2026.

C OMMUNITY G ROUPS IN D UHALLOW

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2024-2025

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 Judy O'Leary & 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 Caitriona Buckley & Mary Keller Sexton

Western 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 & Shane Buckley Margaret Murphy & Marie Casey Derry Morley & Lorraine Singleton Philomena Cremin & Geraldine Cremin Mossie Fitzpatrick & Timothy Collins Cormac Collins & Yvonne Crean PJ O'Leary & David Curtin June Walsh & Ide Fitzgerald Maureen Fleming & Brin McDonnell Noreen McSweeney & Mairead O'Sullivan Nora Shine & Denis McAuliffe Brian Kelly & Marie O'Leary Mike Allen & Breeda O'Callaghan Conor Creedon & Colette Carmody Batt O'Callaghan & Jeremiah Murphy Damien Fenton & Aine Fleming

North Eastern Duhallow Communities

IRD Duhallow Representatives

Castlemagner Dromagh Kanturk Kilbrin Lismire Newmarket Tullylease Freemount

Andy Bourke & Annette O'Mahony Jerry O'Connell & John Feeley John Fuller & Aine O'Leary Tom O'Riordan & Paulina Breen Martina Aherne & Marie Arnold Dan O'Riordan & Sharleen O’Keeffe Liam O'Gorman & Maureen Daly PJ O'Sullivan, Mike O'Regan & Michelle Green

Mid Cork Communities

IRD Duhallow Representatives

Carriganimmy Clondrohid Aghabullogue Rylane Ballinagree Bealnamorive Inchigeelagh Kilbarry Macroom Rusheen

Joan Kelleher & Cait Ring William O’Riordan & Peter Lane Cal Healy & Conor McSweeny Martina Casey & John Crowley Shane Lehane & Aonghus MacSuibhne Don McCarthy & Denis McCarthy Tim Maher & Mary McSweeney Siobhan O'Dowd & Nora Casey Declan Sheehan & John Lyons Gerald Coakley & Donal O'Callaghan

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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