IRD Duhallow Progress Report 2025 - 2026

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 2025-2026

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

Contents Page PAGE

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

Equality And Social Inclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

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

Community Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30, 31

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

Support For Ukrainian Refugees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

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

Duhallow Carers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

IRD Duhallow Staff Biographies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9, 10

Equality For Women & Childcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34, 35

SDG Champions Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Saoi Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

WorkAbility: Progressive Pathways to Employment . . 37

Farming for Water EIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Disability And Mental Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 39

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

Local Area Employment Service (LAES) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

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

Community Employment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

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

Youth And Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42, 43

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

Employment And Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44, 45

Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Rural Social Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46, 47

Culture & Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Tús . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48, 49

Rural Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20, 21

Revamp and Relove Paint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

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

IRD Duhallow Circular Cups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Community Centre Investment Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

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

SICAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

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

Communicating Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26, 27

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

Afterschools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Large Scale Capital Projects 2026 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary with IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh and Chairperson Anne Maria Bourke.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Chairperson’s Address It gives me great pleasure to present IRD Duhallow's Progress Report for 2025–2026 and I am both honoured and delighted to have been elected as Chairperson of the company. It is a privilege to continue serving an organisation that has been at the heart of community, enterprise and rural development for more than thirty-five years. I begin this new term with enormous pride in all that has been achieved and with confidence in the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

I would like to pay tribute to my predecessor, Michael Twohig.

Michael, was a founding member of the Board of IRD Duhallow and a true visionary in his own right. For many decades he has dedicated himself to improving the lives of people throughout Duhallow, helping to shape the organisation from its earliest days into the respected Local Development Company it is today. His unwavering commitment, leadership, wisdom and passion for rural communities have left an indelible mark on this organisation and the wider region. On behalf of the Board, management, staff and communities we serve, I extend my heartfelt thanks to Michael for his exceptional contribution and service to the region and people of Duhallow.

This past year has once again demonstrated the remarkable strength, resilience and ambition of the communities we serve. Throughout this report you will see the extraordinary breadth of work undertaken by IRD Duhallow, from supporting individuals and families to developing businesses, investing in community infrastructure, protecting our environment and strengthening rural communities.

Every programme, every project and every partnership has one common purpose – improving the quality of life for people across our region.

One of the greatest honours bestowed upon IRD Duhallow during the year was our appointment by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications as one of Ireland's Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champions for the 2025–2027 period. This prestigious national recognition reflects the commitment of our organisation to embedding sustainability across every aspect of our work.

During the year, we were delighted to welcome a number of distinguished visitors and public representatives to projects and events across the region. Their visits provided an opportunity to showcase the innovation, ambition and determination that exists within our communities. We welcomed Michael Healy-Rae during his visit in July 2025, Minister Alan Dillon in December 2025, MEP Kathleen Funchion in May 2026, Minister Dara Calleary who officially opened the Kiskeam Walk and turned the sod for the landmark Rylane Community Centre project, Minister Jerry Buttimer on a number of occasions throughout the year, and most recently Minister Mary Butler, who addressed our Rural Mental Health Conference in July 2026. These visits underline the growing national recognition of the work taking place across the Duhallow region and reinforce the importance of continued investment in rural Ireland.

Innovation continues to be one of IRD Duhallow's greatest strengths. During the year we were proud to launch the Migrant Apprenticeship Programme in partnership with Ballyhoura Development Company. This exciting initiative reflects our commitment to creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds while helping employers address skills shortages and supporting the successful integration of new communities into rural Ireland. Partnerships such as these demonstrate the power of collaboration between Local Development Companies in responding to emerging needs and creating meaningful opportunities for people.

Our commitment to sustainability has also been demonstrated through the launch of the Circular Cups social enterprise in partnership with the Southern Regional Waste Authority. This innovative initiative has been embraced by community festivals and events throughout the region and has already diverted thousands of single-use plastic cups from landfill. It is a simple but highly effective example of communities working together to reduce waste, promote environmental responsibility and demonstrate that sustainability can be both practical and achievable.

The recommendations of the Department of Social Protection Review of the Rural Social Scheme were rolled out this year with three significant changes to eligibility that are designed to halt the decline in the numbers accessing the scheme and are already having a positive impact. Together with Tús and CE, these initiatives make an enormous contribution to both participants and the communities they serve.

As Chairperson, I am privileged to work alongside an exceptional Board of Directors whose commitment, expertise and passion continue to guide the organisation. I would like to thank Dominic Cronin, our new Vice Chairman. I sincerely thank each

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Board member for the time they freely give in ensuring the continued good governance and strategic direction of IRD Duhallow. Our Annual Strategic Think-In, held in February, remains one of the most important events in our governance calendar. It provides the Board and senior management with an invaluable opportunity to reflect on our achievements, examine future opportunities and challenges, and collectively shape the strategic direction of the organisation.

Strong governance, thoughtful planning and a shared vision continue to underpin everything we do.

I am delighted to welcome our newest Board members, Aisling Collins and Cllr Niall Kelleher. Their knowledge, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives will undoubtedly strengthen the Board. I am also saddened at the death of one of our former Board Members, Batt Casey, Kiskeam. He will be remembered for his steadfast commitment to the communities of Western Duhallow.

None of our achievements would be possible without the outstanding leadership of our CEO, Maura Walsh. This has been an incredibly difficult personal year for Maura following the tragic loss of her beloved husband, Mark Walsh. Despite such profound personal loss, she has continued to lead the organisation with exceptional resilience, professionalism and determination. On behalf of the Board, I want to acknowledge her remarkable strength and unwavering commitment to IRD Duhallow.

I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to our Assistant CEO, Eileen Linehan, whose knowledge, experience and sound judgement provide invaluable support to both the Board and management team. Her guidance continues to provide a steady hand in ensuring the organisation remains focused, responsive and forward-looking.

To every member of staff, I offer my heartfelt appreciation. The range of programmes delivered by IRD Duhallow continues to expand, and our staff consistently demonstrate professionalism, versatility, innovation and an unwavering commitment to the people and communities we serve. Their approachable nature, willingness to go above and beyond, and genuine can-do attitude are at the heart of our success.

Beyond our own region, I represent IRD Duhallow on a number of Local Development Companies Network (LDCN) committees. With Ireland hosting the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, this is a particularly important time to inform and influence the future direction of rural development policy, including the next LEADER Programme and CAP funding. Collectively, Local Development Companies have been actively engaging with Government to ensure the voices of rural communities are heard.

The recent launch of the LDCN Pre-Budget Submission highlighted the importance of sustained investment in community development. Nationally, the network is advocating for an additional €10.2m for LEADER next year; €6.1 million for the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), €10 million annually for integration supports, a €12 million investment in the Tús and Rural Social Schemes to sustain essential local services, and €500,000 to expand the Rural Recreation Officer network. These targeted investments will help ensure that Local Development Companies can continue responding effectively to the evolving needs of communities across Ireland and we continue to advocate for core funding for local development companies as essential, instead of being programme dependent with many programmes limited.

I was also particularly proud to see both Maura Walsh and Eileen Linehan represent IRD Duhallow before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Rural and Community Development, where they outlined the significant impact of the LEADER Programme and contributed to discussions on its future direction.

Finally, I wish to thank our funding partners, EU, Government Departments, Local Authorities, National Agencies, community organisations, volunteers, businesses and everyone who has worked alongside IRD Duhallow throughout the year. Your continued partnership enables us to deliver meaningful and lasting change throughout our region.

As we look to the future, I remain optimistic. Rural Ireland continues to face challenges, but it also possesses extraordinary strengths – resilient communities, committed volunteers, innovative enterprises and people who are passionate about where they live. Together, we will continue to build upon those strengths, embrace new opportunities and ensure that IRD Duhallow remains at the forefront of social inclusion, community, enterprise and rural development.

Anne Maria Bourke CHAIR

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Manager’s Report In reviewing the Company’s performance over the past year, while details of individual programme activities and performance are outlined in detail in the following pages of the Progress Report overall it has been an exceptional year for IRD Duhallow.

The year started with the planned retirement of our outgoing Chairperson, Michael Twohig from the Chair and as a director and the election of the new Chairperson and Vice Chair. My own personal circumstances and bereavement with the sudden death of my husband, intervened in the timing of this board changeover, and our meeting was put back a month, while I commenced recovery from the sudden loss of my husband. I will be eternally grateful for the huge support shown from the Board, Management team, staff in all aspects of the company who rallied around us as a family providing support and comfort and catering for the crowds that attended his funeral as well as for us as a family.

The October meeting saw the Chairperson of the Board and long-time Director Michael Twohig retire from both roles and Anne Maria Bourke was elected Chairperson with Dominic Cronin elected Vice Chairperson.

The company Strategic Review was held a bit later this year with Anne Maria Bourke outlining her vision as Chair with a refresh of our Working Groups and subcommittees undertaken over the next year to ensure that the Company has the consultative and Governance Structures necessary to lead and guide its operations in the coming years. Progress in this respect has been steady with most working groups already refreshed with new members and a focus on KPIs with regular reports being brought to the Board.

The Company’s Assistant CEO, Eileen Linehan, has stepped up to Acting CEO during this period and has taken on much of the reporting responsibility holding regular meetings with the Team Leaders, managing workloads and restructuring within teams. This has freed up my time to focus on a number of key projects and participate on national Network committees (LDCN), as well as represent IRD Duhallow on the Board of Local Link Kerry. I am indebted to Eileen for this work.

Our Team Leaders, Triona Dennehy, Helen O’Sullivan, Louise Bourke, Jackie Kelly and Monica Gilmore have all taken on extra responsibility with new programmes and staff and their ongoing loyalty and commitment to the Company is appreciated and valued. Our staff are highly motivated, bringing their knowledge skills and expertise to the Company, while their flexibility and commitment is second to none. On a sad note, we lost a valued member of our Warmer Homes team during the year, Noel Heffernan RIP. This was a shock to his close knit family and indeed to all his colleagues here at IRD Duhallow. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.

The Company’s contribution, role and impact in bringing forward practical impactful, relevant and scalable initiatives across all sectors of our communities to tackle climate change, enhance biodiversity, reduce waste and promote sustainability continues to be significant with some of our innovative initiatives mainstreamed and scaled up to become national initiatives. IRD Duhallow’s European Innovation Programme (EIP) Farming for Blue Dot has been scaled up and now led by LAWPRO (Local Authorities Waters Programmes) and IRD Duhallow is delighted to be part of the new Programme in this region.

The European Commission introduced the LEADER Programme 35 years ago and IRD Duhallow was one of the first 16 pilot areas in Ireland to be awarded LEADER and we have continued to implement it since. Successive evaluations at national and European level attest to its resounding success right across the expanding EU, showing how the locally led and managed, bottom-up, local area approach to rural and community development is the most successful model for delivering real and sustained development results across all sectors.

Many of the projects that were funded in the early years of LEADER have continued to grow and develop and are acting as economic drivers in the respective area.

Duhallow Community Food Services for example has gone from an initial small food training and incubator hub to now employing 72 people and providing meals on wheels delivered daily as well as a restaurant where people can come in and meet with others by sharing a table and having a chat once or twice a week, or more often if they wish, thus alleviating social isolation for many. It has also played a pivotal role in supporting families with home catering for family events and in community centre settings as the occasion requires. In the past year it has expanded to provide hot school lunches cooked fresh every morning using fresh ingredients sourced locally. We have worked closely with the EO for the region to ensure the highest standards possible. Duhallow Community Food Services was nominated for a number of national awards including the Food Writers' Guild

Award, the National Lottery Good Causes Award as well as featuring on RTE’s Ear to the Ground and Nationwide.

Another project undertaken in the early years of LEADER was a feasibility study of the former quarry at Ballyhass, that had filled as lakes. A subsequent LEADER Programme provided funding to develop Ballyhass Lakes as a Water Adventure Centre. It now employs 150 and caters for school tours, workplace team building and has accommodation for 25 families.

IRD Duhallow holds that LEADER put down the roots and formed the strong trunk of the tree that has over the years branched out to provide a wide range of programmes in response to the varying and growing needs of our communities. LEADER must remain and be strengthened so that all the Programmes such as Communicating Europe, Warmer Homes Scheme, Furniture REVAMP and the Community Laundry as well as Workability all thrive as branches of the same tree, forming an Integrated Resource Development model, which is what IRD Duhallow stands for.

IRD Duhallow was honoured to be invited, along with three other groups from Donegal and Offaly to present in person to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development, chaired by Mr John Paul O’Shea T.D. The Report on the LEADER Programme and Rural Development was published recently, and it contains forty recommendations to further strengthen the LEADER model in Ireland. The report will now go before the Dáil in the autumn and hopefully will be passed and will inform policy and funding putting LEADER on a firm political and financial footing into the future. Coming during Ireland’s Presidency of the European Council and a major Rural Development Conference planned for the late autumn. This report and the recommendations could well inform how LEADER will sit as part of CAP and other funding programmes into the future at European as well as National level.

While unemployment has remained relatively low at full-employment levels, indications are that it has started to move upwards and we are hearing predictions that AI will accelerate the growth in unemployment over the coming years. While those displaced will likely be graduates, they will require a specific response but those hard-to-reach unemployed people that we are currently working with or that often have multiple disadvantages must not be left to the bottom of priorities again.

SICAP funding must be strengthened to keep pace with growing demands, as must programmes like WorkAbility that are so beneficial to those participating in them.

Our Community Mental Health Programme funded by the HSE, has really touched a cohort in our communities, that heretofore did not have this accessible safe space in which to be heard. Our first Mental Health Conference was attended by 130 delegates and opened by Minister Mary Butler and addressed by the Mayor of Cork Cllr. Bernard Moynihan with eminent speakers across several fields of interest.

Our initiative has evolved and grown and includes support groups based on topics like reading for the brain and a specific walking group. The Recovery College concept was introduced this year with great support from those already established in the West of the Country and we are grateful for this support. Our college, though new, has grown at a faster pace than anticipated and it was heartening to hear the Minister and other speakers laud its development.

Another innovative programme from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht that we successfully accessed for Rylane Community is the Community Centre Investment Fund. Minister Callery turned the sod last November and we are delighted with the progress of the builders, despite the very bad, wet first six months of the year. Well done to the Rylane Committee who are working hard fund-raising to meet the matching fund contribution.

As we look to the year ahead, IRD Duhallow remains well positioned to continue to deliver Government policy at local level, meeting the unmet needs of our communities. We will deliver on targets for Rural Development, Social Inclusion and climate change, through our various Programmes funded through the key Government Departments and Agencies.

Maura Walsh CEO

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

IRD Duhallow Board Members ANNE MARIA BOURKE

DOMINIC CRONIN

Anne Maria is the current 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 as well as sitting on the HR Committee. She is a keen bridge player and is a member of the Kanturk Bridge Club.

Dominic joined the Board in July 2021. He represents the ICMSA and was elected Company Vice Chair in October 2025. 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.

CORMAC COLLINS

BREEDA MOYNIHAN CRONIN

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.

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.

AMANDA O’SULLIVAN Amanda is a native of 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 Right “ in Budapest this year. Amanda has previously been the PRO for her club. She is looking forward to joining the board.

PAUL AHERNE 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 Northwest 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.

GERALDINE GALVIN 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 is involved in the local community as a volunteer with a number of local organisations and clubs in Macroom.

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PADRAIC O’CONNELL 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 Club where he was Captain for 2025 and Killarney Golf Club and plays a little Tennis in Lombardstown Tennis Club.

BARRY O’CONNOR 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.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

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 in July 2023 to represent the South Eastern Region and is actively involved in multiple local voluntary groups in Banteer, where she lives with her family. She has worked at Eli Lilly for 15 years, holding various management roles In Finance, HR and Third Part Risk Management during her tenure.

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 and 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. Joseph 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 GREEN

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 across a range of roles, Michelle currently serves as an Administrative Officer with responsibility for Support Services and the Environmental Awareness Office within the Planning & Environment Directorate of Cork County Council. She recently cofounded 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.

AISLING COLLINS

BILLY DENNEHY

Aisling is from Gneeveguilla and a primary school teacher in Lyre National School. She was nominated onto the board in 2026 as a community representative for Western Duhallow. Aisling also sits on the Community Development Working Group.

Aisling is very active in her local community. She is currently the PRO for Gneeveguilla GAA and coaches’ basketball for Gneeveguilla Basketball Club.

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 a former Board Chairperson and sits on the Women's Forum Working Group, she is Vice Chair of our Finance and HR committees and Chairs the Social Enterprise Working Group. She was originally elected to the Board in 2015 representing the communities of our South Eastern Region. She is a retired Civil Servant. 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 a Director and Assistant Treasurer.

Judy first joined the Board of IRD Duhallow in 1997 representing women’s’ groups. She chaired the Women and Childcare Working Group for many years 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

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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 FÁS 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 Mary’s Secondary School and the CBS Primary School Charleville.

CLLR. NIALL KELLEHER

DAVID DOYLE

Niall Kelleher is a Fianna Fáil Councillor representing the Killarney LEA on Kerry County Council. A native of Rathmore, he now lives at Knockanes, Headford. First elected in 2014, he has served as Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council and as Mayor of Killarney Municipal District. He currently serves as Chairperson of the Local Community Safety Partnership, and is a member of the Education and Training Board and the Roads Strategic Policy Committee. A farmer, postmaster and BPO Consultant, Niall is deeply rooted in rural Kerry life. His focus has consistently been on delivering for his community, championing local infrastructure, public safety, and development across the Killarney area.

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.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

IRD Duhallow 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: 1,753 Jobs Created 2,816 Businesses Supported 287 Community Groups Supported Community Work Placements Supported 677 27,965 Training Places Created 5,190 Homes Insulated 305 Tonnes of Furniture Diverted from Landfill

1,753

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

305

2,816 287

5,190 27,965

Youth & Education

677

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

2026

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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IRD Duhallow Staff Biographies EILEEN LINEHAN MBS (Business Economics, B.A. (Econ & Geog), Dip. Personnel Mng, Dip in Public Procurement, Dip. High Performance Leadership.

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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), Dip. High Performance Leadership.

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.

Triona is Employment, Training and Social Inclusion Coordinator 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.

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

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 and oversees the Mental Health, Disability & Integration which includes the Workability, Rural Community Health & New Arrival Initiatives as well as environment and farm supports. She oversees our Afterschool Service, Youth, Child & Family Support initiatives. Helen works on both the LEADER & SICAP Programme. She also oversees the Community Development & Youth & Equality Working Groups.

Louise joined IRD Duhallow in November 2010 and is the Enterprise and Environment Team Leader. She coordinates enterprise and tourism supports under LEADER and SICAP, as well as working on the Skillnet programme, and she supports the delivery of IRD Duhallow’s environmental programmes. She also oversees the Community Investment Fund and the fortnightly publication of Discover Duhallow.

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 a Development Officer and work closely with the Assistant CEO ensuring compliance with programme regulations. She works on both LEADER and SICAP programmes and is the staff resource for the LEADER Evaluation Committee. She coordinates the Communicating Europe Initiative, liaising with schools and organising events that foster public engagement with EU matters. She works on LEADER related heritage projects.

She is a tutor on the TTRS computer classes, which are part of IRD Duhallow’s Literacy Support Programme.

Monica joined the IRD Duhallow team in June 2021 and is Acting Team Leader for 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 LEADER programme.

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

MELISSA HOLLAND PG Dip in Sociology, BA in Sociology and Psychology, Information, Advice and Advocacy Practice QQI Level 6.

Lenora joined IRD Duhallow in November 2024 as a Development Officer. In her role, she is responsible for assisting with SICAP actions and community initiatives, while also supporting LEADER projects and rural development activities across the Duhallow region. In addition, Lenora works as a Case Officer with the Local Area Employment Services, where she supports clients in identifying employment opportunities, accessing relevant training to enhance their skills, and progressing towards sustainable employment. Lenora is also actively involved in the Women’s Forum and SAOI Network.

Melissa joined IRD Duhallow in March 2025 as a Development Officer. She coordinates the Newmarket Afterschools as well as the WorkAbility programme which 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 as well as Collaborative Network actions under SICAP and serves as the staff resource for the Youth and Education Working Group.

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

SHANE McHALE BA in Social Care, Certified in “SafeTALK” Suicide Prevention and “Children First”, QQI Certificate in Training Delivery and Evaluation.

Ciarán joined IRD Duhallow in April 2024 as a Development Officer, working primarily as a Case Officer with the Local Area Employment Services. His responsibilities include supporting clients in accessing employment and training opportunities, assisting with SICAP actions and community initiatives, and supporting LEADER projects and rural development activities across the Duhallow region. Ciarán also continues to assist in implementing the Dormant Accounts Fund to support the Duhallow Carers Group.

Since May 2025 Shane has overseen the activities of the Rural Community Health Project, a collaborative project between IRD Duhallow and HSE Mental Health and Community Services. Shane also coordinates and facilitates the modules delivered by the Wellbeing & Recovery College. These activities support our community members in building resilience, connection and wellbeing. His work promotes recovery-focused learning, empowering people through education, shared experience and inclusive community initiatives.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

IRD Duhallow Staff Biographies JACKIE KELLY BBus Honours, Bachelor of Business, BBus Advanced Certificate in Accounting, Training Delivery & Evaluation (QQI L6), Dip. High Performance Leadership.

Jackie is the Finance Team Leader. She is responsible for overseeing and maintaining the organisation’s financial systems and procedure including preparing and presenting monthly financial reports to management and Board. She monitors budgets and expenditure and prepares financial returns and claims for all programmes. Jackie liaises with external auditors in relation to year-end accounts.

MAGGIE O’CALLAGHAN Administration Practice QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate.

Maggie joined IRD Duhallow’s Finance Department in January 2020. She prepares and processes monthly accounts for both DCFS and IRD Duhallow Furniture Revamp. Maggie is responsible for compiling and presenting financial reports at the Social Economy Working Group meetings, whilst also offering support to Management within these divisions. Maggie liaises with the DCFS company auditors for the preparation of the year-end financial statement. Maggie also contributes to the main accounts within IRD Duhallow along with the various programmes, through the preparation and processing of Accounts Payable.

AIDAN SUART Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Agricultural Science.

Aidan joined IRD Duhallow’s Enterprise and Environment Team in March 2025. He works across a number of programmes including the Farming for Water EIP where he recruits farmers into the project, promoting best practices and assisting in community led work to enhance the reach and impact of the Farming for Water EIP. Aidan supports environment projects and initiatives under the LEADER and SICAP programmes. He is the staff resource to the Environment and Agriculture Working Groups.

DAVID O’CONNOR Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Environmental Biology.

David joined the Enterprise and Environment Team in March 2026. As a Development Officer, he provides expert ecological advice to schools and community groups, supports biodiversity enhancement initiatives, and organises biodiversity-focused events throughout IRD Duhallow. He is also responsible for coordinating the Nature Detective Camp. David is also involved in the SDG Champions Programme on behalf of IRD Duhallow.

DERVAL CORBETT ECDL, Cert in Supervisory Management.

Derval is employed by IRD Duhallow since 1999. Working on a part time basis as an Administrator based in the Reception and Administration Office. Derval deals with initial queries to the company and supports Management and Staff with administration assistance. Her areas of responsibility include the company’s administration requirements. She is editor of the company’s monthly Newsletter, which is circulated to over 14,000 homes in Duhallow. Derval is also one of the Liaison Persons with the National Vetting Bureau on behalf of Local Development Companies supporting Garda Vetting Applications nationally.

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

Margaret is the Senior Accounts Administrator and has been employed by IRD Duhallow for twenty- nine 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 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 QQIL6, Training Delivery & Evaluation QQIL6, Manual Handling Instructor QQIL6. Major award in carpentry and joinery QQIL6.

Colm joined IRD Duhallow in 2016 and is the Rural Recreation Officer. He is responsible for the Walks Scheme on the Duhallow Way, along with the Monitoring and maintenance of all the Trails in the Duhallow area. Colm also looks after the transport portfolio in the company and coordinates the maintenance of our fleet of vehicles. Colm is a member of the Health and Safety committee and is one of the in-house manual handling instructors.

ELLIE DONOVAN Regenerative Agriculture and Market Gardening QQIL6; Environment, Sustainability and Climate, QQIL7, Train The Trainer QQIL6, Dip Applied Social Studies; Horticulture & Applied Propagation RHSL3.

As our Social Farming Coordinator, Ellie 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 co secretary of the Community Gardens Ireland committee and secretary of The Environmental Forum’s board of directors.

NOREEN COURTNEY Bachelor of Business Studies (Hons), MIATI-Accounting Technician, AIPA – Payroll Technician, Training Delivery & Evaluation (QQI L6), HR Management (QQI L6), Private Secretary’s Diploma LCCI, Diploma in Business Administration and Office Skills, Cert in Credit Union Studies.

Noreen joined the enterprise office in IRD Duhallow in May 2026. She helps organise and promote courses, acts as liaison between attendees and trainers, assists with procurement of contracts. Ezines and social media posting, assists with organising the recognition of learning and business awards. She assists with IRIS updates and SICAP files. She is responsible for invoicing for Discover Duhallow magazine.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

IRD Duhallow Staff Biographies 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 been employed as CE Supervisor for over twenty-six years and has gained valuable experience in aiding participants to get the most from their CE placement. His duties include supervision of IRD Duhallow participants, providing advice, guidance and support to them in their roles and guiding them towards mainstream employment through the identification of their training needs. Paddy also liaises with the communities availing of participants on the scheme to ensure that community needs are met to the highest standards. Also liaising with the IRD Duhallow Job Centre Employment Officers.

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 several SEAI programmes which include the Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme, Better Energy Homes, 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, Newmarket Pitch & Putt and several of the companies’ payrolls. Colm chairs IRD Duhallows Health and Safety Committee and is a 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, New Directions and other inhouse programmes.

JESSICA BARON B.A. in History of art, Higher certificate in Fine Art, Higher certificate in Textile construction and restoration, Training and delivery QQI 6, Diploma Literature QQI 5.

Jessica joined IRD Duhallow in 2016 and is supervisor for Duhallow Furniture REVAMP. With a strong commitment to the circular economy and sustainable living, she oversees the operations in Revamp, the Relove Paint project and the Circular Cups for Community Events. She also facilitates Towards Occupation and Workability training and work experience, as well as CE, Tús and RSS Scheme participants.

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

Manual Handling Instructor (QQI L6).

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PADDY O’CONNOR Supervisory Management (QQI Level 6).

ANITA CASTLE Anita is the Laundry Supervisor at IRD Duhallow Community Laundry service, where she plays a key role in ensuring high standards of hygiene, efficiency and customer care across the service. With a strong commitment to teamwork and attention to detail, Anita oversees the day-to-day running of the laundry department, supporting both staff and clients with professionalism and warmth. Her dedication to quality service and her practical, hands-on approach have made her a valued member of the IRD Duhallow team.

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

Amanda joined IRD Duhallow in September 2022 as a CE Assistant Supervisor. In her role, she supports the CE supervisor in assisting individuals who are long-term unemployed, helping them build skills, set personal and career goals, and progress towards mainstream employment. She assists each participant in developing a tailored progression plan. In addition, Amanda is responsible for preparing payroll, finances, and administrative functions for the CE scheme.

Mariia is a Development Officer, working on LAES, Integration and Community Food Initiative. She also acts as an Interpreter. As part of the Ukrainian Response Initiative, she supports a wide range of integration, wellbeing and employment initiatives including training courses while also providing guidance and support to individuals exploring employment and education opportunities.

Mariia also organises projects promoting healthy eating and reducing health inequalities among vulnerable groups.

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

CARLA ARAYE BA Journalism.

Yuliia is employed as an Integration Officer, supporting refugees and asylum seekers across the region with integration, housing, and access to local services. She organises workshops and training programmes focused on employment skills and well-being, while also providing interpreting support at the weekly GP clinic. She works closely with Cork County Council under the Offer a Home scheme and supports Ukrainian participants in the Tús activation programme. She also works as a Case Officer with the LAES programme, assisting clients with CV preparation, job searching, training, and employment guidance.

Carla is employed as a Development Officer. Previously she has worked with the World Rehabilitation Fund, a LebanonProject Funded by the United States Agency for International Development in the field of project implementation support and documentation officer. With IRD Duhallow she works on supporting migrants and refugees to upskill through our MAP project as well as supporting individuals access employment supports through SICAP and LAES. In addition, she provides assistance and coordination for various project activities including training sessions, meetings, monitoring and evaluation.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

SDG Champions Programme Leading the way as a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champion IRD Duhallow was honoured to be appointed as one of Ireland’s official SDG Champions for the 2025–2027 period by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment. The SDG Champions Programme recognises organisations across Ireland that are demonstrating leadership and commitment in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inspiring others to take action.

the SDGs across all aspects of its operations and communications.

IRD Duhallow’s Discover Duhallow Magazine is distributed fortnightly, both in print and online, with over 4,000 copies reaching homes, businesses, and community centres.

Since being appointed SDG champion, a series of articles have featured raising awareness of the SDGs by linking them to local initiatives and showcasing practical sustainability actions.

Collaboration Collaboration is also a central element of the SDG Champions Programme. Through the initiative, IRD Duhallow has had the opportunity to engage with and learn from fellow SDG Champions from across Ireland, including organisations working in areas such as food sustainability, climate action, education, social enterprise and community engagement.

Pictured at the SDG Conference in UCC are IRD Duhallow’s Louise Bourke and Lenora Kelly.

Representatives of the SDG Champions 2025-2027 attend its launch along with organiser Aisling Kirwan and Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global goals adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The goals aim to create a better and more sustainable future for all by addressing key global challenges including poverty, inequality, climate change, education, health, sustainable communities and environmental protection. The SDGs recognise that social, economic and environmental issues are interconnected and encourage governments, businesses, organisations and communities to work together to ensure that no one is left behind.

During the Communicating Europe Initiative workshop delivered by IRD Duhallow, Dr. Brendan O’Keeffe explored the Sustainable Development Goals with more than 500 students, highlighting their importance at both local and global level.

These collaborations create valuable opportunities to share ideas, develop partnerships and highlight innovative approaches to addressing local and global challenges.

Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien presenting an SDG Champion Certificate to Enterprise and Environment Team Leader Louise Bourke and IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh.

For IRD Duhallow, the principles behind the SDGs are deeply embedded within our ethos and daily work. IRD Duhallow works to improve quality of life, strengthen communities and support sustainable economic, social and environmental development.

As an SDG Champion, our roles include: • Promoting the SDGs. • Show how organisations can integrate the SDGs into their own work • Sharing learning and experiences with others Communicating the SDGs A key aspect of the SDG Champion role is promoting awareness and encouraging local action. IRD Duhallow has committed to embedding

As part of this collaborative approach, IRD Duhallow recently welcomed fellow SDG Champion Angela Ruttledge from FoodCloud to the James O’Keeffe Institute, to discuss sustainability, food systems and community action around the SDGs. Such engagements strengthen the collective impact of the SDG Champion network and demonstrate how organisations can work together to create meaningful change.

Being named an SDG Champion is both a recognition of the work already taking place and a commitment to continue building stronger, more resilient and sustainable rural communities. Through collaboration, innovation and community leadership, IRD Duhallow is proud to play its part in helping Ireland achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring that rural communities remain central to a sustainable future.

Partnerships for the Goals : SDG17: Linda O’Connor DCFS, Angela Ruttledge of Food Cloud and Louise Bourke IRD Duhallow.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Environment Since its establishment, environmental protection has been a central pillar of IRD Duhallow’s strategic plan. IRD Duhallow continues to promote and support initiatives that deliver positive environmental outcomes, with a strong focus on raising awareness of key environmental challenges and protecting local habitats and species.

Fluvial Geomorphological Assessment of Owentaraglin River IRD Duhallow commissioned CBEC Eco Engineering to undertake a fluvial geomorphological assessment of the Owentaraglin River. The field survey identified agricultural field drainage as the main issue impacting the river, as it accelerates surface runoff and contributes to increased sediment loads. Silt deposition was observed in the upper catchments, likely linked to land poaching and unrestricted cattle access to the river, both of which can exacerbate bank erosion.

This initiative marked a shift from classroom-based learning to a practical approach, enabling participants to engage with the natural environment within their own communities. The intention of the programme facilitator, Irene, was that participants would complete the workshops with John Paul O’Shea TD with Stephen Galvin of increased biodiversity knowledge, Inchigeelagh Hall Committe with the IRD a stronger connection to nature, Duhallow Nature Calendar 2026. and greater confidence to act on behalf of biodiversity within their communities.

Topics covered included: Bees and Pollinators; Hedgerows and Trees; Birds Near and Far; Nocturnal Creatures; Amphibians, Wetlands, and Ponds.

Riparian buffer strip with shrubs along the Owentaraglin River.

EPA Pollutant Impact Potential (PIP) mapping showed significant nitrogen and phosphorus inputs likely due to high stocking rates and poorly drained soils. A key recommendation of the report was the establishment of riparian buffer zones through the strategic planting of native trees and shrubs. The findings demonstrated that riverbank sections lacking vegetation were more vulnerable to erosion than vegetated areas.

Michael O'Connor, former Ecologist with the IRD Duhallow Blue Dot project has transferred his learning to the Greater Wellington Regional Council where he is currently employed as an Environment Restoration Advisor.

Riparian planting would reduce sediment entering the river, improve bank stability, and intercept nutrient runoff before it reaches the river, thereby enhancing overall water quality. The report also emphasised the importance of protecting riparian buffers through appropriate stockproof fencing and reducing herbicide and pesticide use. The assessment noted that modifications to the existing drainage ditch network could improve floodplain connectivity. This would help slow river flows, increase floodwater storage, and reduce flood risk downstream.

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Biodiversity in the Community: Building on previous investment in community-based biodiversity initiatives, IRD Duhallow delivered a “Biodiversity in Your Neighbourhood” training programme through the LEADER Programme. The programme was delivered in both Newmarket and Inchigeelagh.

Training focused on local species, habitats, and ecosystems, encouraging a whole-ecosystem perspective. By linking biodiversity education with meaningful community action, the programme supported communities to better understand, protect, and enhance their natural surroundings, while contributing to wider environmental sustainability objectives.

Participant feedback has been very positive, with increased knowledge reported in habitat identification, pollinator support, and community-led conservation actions. The programme also provides a foundation for longer-term community engagement in biodiversity initiatives across Duhallow.

Professor Irene Sullivan with the participants of the Biodiversity in Your Neighbourhood programme in Inchigeelagh.

Participants of the LEADER funded Biodiversity Training Programme in Newmarket.

Biodiversity Week Biodiversity Week took place in IRD Duhallow from 18th-22nd of May. Development Officer David O’Connor held a talk with the workability group on the Tuesday where he spoke about the local plants and animals within Duhallow. On the Thursday, a biodiversity talk and activities were carried out with the Afterschools Group. This involved showing the younger children how to carry out a bug hunt while the older age groups learned how to carry out kick samples along a nearby stream. On Friday, David carried out a walk and talk with our New Directions Group along the grounds of James O’Keeffe Complex Promoting citizen science and educating where he spoke about the communities on biodiversity and the importance of biodiversity and why environment remains a key focus of IRD we should conserve it.

Duhallow’s work.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Farming for Water EIP Farming for Water EIP The Farming for Water EIP continues to play a key role in addressing water quality challenges throughout Ireland, the project also assists in the implementation of the Water Framework Directives aim of achieving good ecological status in all waters by 2027. Since the beginning of the project in 2024, the Farming for Water EIP has so far assisted over 5000 farmers in implementing measures to address and improve water quality across the country.

A Water Bar and Sediment Trap, used to capture run-off from Farm Roadways.

are available through the project which are designed to reduce the impacts of these pollutants where identified. Furthermore, funding is available for bespoke measures on a case-by-case basis where they will provide a water quality benefit.

Farming for Water Community Animator Aidan Suart carries out an on-farm assessment as part of the project.

At a local level the Farming for Water EIP continues to play a vital role in the restoration and protection of local waterbodies throughout Duhallow, furthermore the project contributes towards the protection of biodiversity and climate change mitigation.

In total the project currently has over 30 active participants, this number continues to grow with farmers expressing their interests in the project. Farmers in the EIP are implementing a range of naturebased solutions through the project along with following agricultural best practices to ensure that nutrient run-off is reduced, enhancing and improving waterbodies.

Some of the actions implemented to date include the Management of Critical Source Areas, Riparian Margins, Water Bars and Sediment Traps.

Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Engagement is a key aspect of the Farming for Water EIP. Building on the success of previous EIP’s, there is great enthusiasm amongst farmers to continue delivering further water quality improvements across the region. In addition to engaging with farmers on a one-to-one basis, the project was promoted at a number of events across the year.

In June, an information event was held in the James O’Keeffe Institute where an overview was provided on the project. In October an update was delivered on the project at our Farm Succession Event. In November a workshop was held in UCC with students of the Level 7 Certificate in Sustainable Dairy Development Course. Further promotion of the EIP took place through farmer training courses and a localised event held by Boherbue Co Op. Throughout 2025 , IRD Duhallow directly engaged with a number of project partners of the Farming for Water EIP including LAWPRO, Boherbue Co-Op, Teagasc, Dawn Meats and UCC.

Project Measures Funding is provided for measures Kick sampling is an important task used to which go beyond the regulatory monitor river water quality by sampling requirements. Farmers receive a free aquatic macroinvertebrates. advisory visit where a farm action plan is put in place to identify where actions are needed to reduce sediment, nutrient and pesticide losses to water. A total of 43 measures

Next Steps IRD Duhallow will continue to work alongside stakeholders in the region through the Farming for Water EIP, further developing the great work achieved to date by making further improvements to water quality, protecting biodiversity and working towards reducing the impacts of climate change.

IRD Duhallow were delighted to welcome members of Inishowen Rivers Trust to the James O'Keeffe Institute on a study visit to learn about our water quality improvement initiatives.

Farming for Water Community Animator Aidan Suart assisting with IRD Duhallow Newmarket Afterschools Nature Camp.

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Agriculture The IRD Duhallow Agriculture Working Group is composed of farmers and key stakeholders in the region. The group meets to discuss agriculture-related projects in Duhallow, the challenges currently facing the region, and future strategies for development within Duhallow.

collaborative farming structures. Also, on the day farmers heard from Aidan Suart about the Farming for Water EIP and from Shane McHale who outlined the work of the Rural Community Health Project which included the various social and mental health initiatives available to farmers and their families.

Sustainable Dairy Development IRD Duhallow Skillnet along with Kerry Agribusiness and Carbery Group continue to co-fund the Sustainable Dairy Development Programme for their suppliers which is delivered

by University College Cork (UCC). It is a Level 7 NFQ, 10 Credit Special Purpose Award, the course is delivered part-time over 12 weeks through a blended delivery design. The course has a strong focus on Students attending an in-person workshop understanding climate as part of the Sustainable Dairy Development change, policies and Programme in UCC. environmental sustainability allowing local milk suppliers to develop knowledge and sustainability on their farms and gain a UCC accreditation in Sustainable Dairy Development.

Farm Succession Event

Duhallow Beekeepers The Duhallow Beekeeper’s Association ran a series of beginner’s courses on beekeeping at the James O’Keeffe Institute this past year. There was a total of 17 beginners this year, bringing the total number of members to 70. The apiary located on the grounds currently has four bee colonies which are used for demonstrations to beginners in beekeeping, with the priority being on the use of native bee species and on best practices in Beekeeping.

Duhallow Beekeepers Association members on a recent training course held on the demonstration apiary at the James O’Keeffe Institute.

Waters of LIFE IRD Duhallow is one of 10 Local Development Companies which are Associated Beneficiaries of the EU Waters of LIFE project. The objective of the project is to reverse the decline of Ireland's most pristine rivers by working with farmers and local communities to develop new solutions.

The project consists of six sub catchments which have been chosen as demonstration catchments for the project.

Staff at IRD attending Invasive Species Training held as part of the Waters of LIFE project.

Pictured at the Planning for Tomorrow, Farm Succession Event are Maura Walsh, CEO IRD Duhallow, Aisling Meehan, Agricultural Solicitor, Colette Vaughan of the Department of Social Protection and Paul O’Connell Milk Supply and Farm Succession Manager for Dairygold.

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In October, IRD Duhallow held a Planning for Tomorrow, Farm Succession Event. The event was held in the James O’Keeffe Institute and was attended by over 100 farmers.

Headlining the event was Aisling Meehan, Agricultural Solicitor. Aisling was joined by panellists Colette Vaughan of the Department of Social Protection and Milk Supply and Farm Succession Manager for Dairygold Paul O’Connell.

Farmers were given valuable insights into family farm transfers, wills and potential

Farmers attending a Farming IT Course held in the James O’Keeffe Institute.

Both the Awbeg and Shournagh are demonstration catchments in the project. The project consists of Result-Based Payments for habitat quality, farmer training and funding for the implementation of improvement measures. To date there is approximately 260 farmers active in the programme across the projects 6 sub-catchments located in Clare, Cork, Galway, Roscommon, Kerry and Wicklow.

Daly’s Tractors won the Best Established Business in the Duhallow Business Awards 2025.

It was the first time an Agri Related Business had won this category.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Social Farming IRD Duhallow Social Farming Duhallow Social Farming (DSF) offers people with additional needs the opportunity to spend time on a working farm, connect with nature and meet new people. It is a voluntary model whereby host farmers offer their time, typically one day a week for two or three hours, supporting participants to engage in activities around the farm. It is a person-centred approach which aims to match participants with their preferred type of farm based on personal interests, goals and abilities. Our communitybased programme extends across the spectrum of disability. It is inclusive of people with mental health conditions and people with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities.

2026, IRD Duhallow Social Farm joined Talamh Beo, a member-led organisation working to create a better food system, where all people have access to healthy, nutritious and affordable local food.

Training and Events

Minister Michael Healy Rae and DAFM executives with members of the New Directions Group and IRD Duhallow staff and board members.

Duhallow Social Farming hosted an Orchard Care Workshop with Paul Lynch on in March.

We were honoured to welcome Minister Michael Healy Rae along with DAFM Executives Peter Johnston and Clare Gormley in July 2025 to visit Duhallow Social Farming Projects. Members of the New Directions and WorkAbility groups were delighted to meet the Minister and Department Representatives and show them around our social farm and gardens. We also paid a visit to Host Farmers the Collins family dairy farm in Scarteen.

We were very grateful to the fantastic team from Gilead Life Sciences who chose us as their charity partner once again in 2025. The team made a generous donation of their time and hand tools to IRD Duhallow Social Farm.

Ciaran and Lizzie meet the pony at O’Leary’s Farm.

Gearoid and Chris talking tractors at Bourke’s Farm.

Duhallow Social Farming was launched in 2021 with the support of the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine. Participants and farmers are supported throughout their placement journey. Financial support is provided to cover any additional health and safety adjustments or insurance costs on the farm. DSF also creates the opportunity to reconnect farmers with their local communities by opening up their farms as part of the social support system of the community.

DSF Collaboration In 2025, IRD Duhallow Social Farm became a member of Community Gardens Ireland; a network of community growing initiatives across the island of Ireland. We welcome volunteers on Wednesday mornings to help on our Social Farm and Community Garden. In September 2025 we joined other community growing projects from around Ireland to co-create the Community Permaculture Garden in the Global Green area at Electric Picnic. Global Green is a collaborative initiative, with dozens of organisations, networks and collectives coordinated by Cultivate, the sustainability cooperative based in Cloughjordan Ecovillage.

Gilead Life Sciences Volunteer Day, September 2025.

We celebrated National Community Growing by hosting a well-attended Composting Workshop with Donal O’Leary of Waste Down.

A Spring Gardening course was held over 3 weeks in March and April 2026. Topics included Planting for Pollinators, Seed sowing and Propagating plants by division.

Lenora Kelly, Development Officer and Ellie Donovan, Social Farming Coordinator with IRD Duhallow at the Community Garden in the Global Green area of Electric Picnic 2025.

At the edge of the garden were Talamh Beo, an Irish grassroots organization led by farmers and land-based workers which promotes agroecology, regenerative farming, and community-led food systems. In

Composting Workshop with Donal O’Leary of Waste Down as part of National Community Growing Week, October 2025.

Paul Lynch, Orchard Care Specialist facilitated an orchard care demonstration focusing on pruning young and mature apple trees.

IRD Duhallow Social Farm’s Bealtaine Plant Sale on May 1st was a great success. Thank you to everyone who supported us.

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Enterprise Supporting rural businesses in the IRD Duhallow area is essential to sustaining local jobs, maintaining vibrant communities, and ensuring that people can live and work in their own area. In the rural IRD Duhallow region, small and medium enterprises play a crucial role in driving economic activity, providing services, and fostering community resilience.

IRD Duhallow through its Enterprise Working Group plays a central role in this ecosystem by identifying local challenges, and delivering a range of enterprise, training, and funding supports through a range of programmes. By working closely with entrepreneurs, start-ups, and established businesses, IRD Duhallow helps to build capacity, encourage innovation, and support sustainable growth, ultimately contributing to a strong and thriving rural economy.

Scannell Safety, with support from LEADER, invested in a virtual driving simulator, providing a safe and innovative environment for skills development.

SICAP

tourism, food production, green enterprise, and the circular economy. By fostering job creation and strengthening the local economic base, LEADER helps to retain population and sustain livelihoods in rural areas. Under the current programme IRD Duhallow has supported a number of private enterprises to create and sustain jobs locally across a variety of measures.

Duhallow Business Awards

LEADER

The IRD Duhallow Business Awards 2025 marked the 11th year of this flagship event, celebrating the achievements, innovation, and resilience of businesses across the region. Held at the James O’Keeffe Institute, the awards brought together entrepreneurs, employers, and community leaders for a gala evening recognising excellence across a wide range of sectors. On the night, The Castle Hotel, Macroom Rory Buckley of the Castle Hotel Macroom was named Overall Business of the receiving the Overall Business of the Year Year and also took home Best Food Award from IRD Duhallow’s Maura Walsh Business, while Ivy Aesthetics and at the IRD Duhallow Business Awards 2025.

Laser Clinic won Best Emerging Business. Other winners included Claddagh Design (Best in the Creative Industry), The Beauty Zone and Academy (Best in the Hair & Beauty Industry), Daly’s Tractors (Best Small Established Business), and Munster Drone Services (Best Large Established Business). The event, hosted by Alan Shortt, showcased the strength and diversity of enterprise across the region and highlighted the vital role local businesses play in supporting the rural economy and community life.

The LEADER Programme plays a vital role in supporting enterprises and rural businesses by providing targeted grant aid and developmental supports that enable start-ups to establish, existing businesses to expand, and entrepreneurs to diversify their activities. It places a strong emphasis on Participants of the Start Your Own Business innovation, sustainability, and Programme pictured with programme tutor Ruth adding value to local Cosgrave of Via Lutea. resources, encouraging businesses to respond to emerging opportunities in areas such as

SAMUELE The SAMUELE project (Self-Assessment Model for Universities Embracing Lifelong Learning in Europe) is an Erasmus+ Programme initiative running from 2025–2028 that aims to strengthen university lifelong learning (ULLL) across Europe. It does this by analysing how lifelong learning is currently delivered in higher education, developing a self-assessment framework for universities, and producing policy recommendations to better embed lifelong learning within institutions and systems. IRD Duhallow is an industry partner in the project which is coordinated by eucen. The project brings together a European consortium of partners including the European Students’ Union, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Copenhagen Business School, University College Cork, University of Lille, Stifterverband, Station Denmark, and FCU, alongside a wider group of associated higher education institutions and networks.

Move and Mend Pilates received funding through LEADER to bring the first Reformer Pilates studio to the IRD Duhallow region.

Louise Bourke, IRD Duhallow and Partners of the SAMUELE project gathered at a consortium meeting hosted by University College Cork.

Participants in the SICAP-funded Sugarcraft Training Programme showcasing their work.

Through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), IRD Duhallow delivers a range of tailored supports to help individuals explore, start, and grow a business. This includes one-to-one business mentoring, offering personalised guidance on areas such as business planning, marketing, and financial management, alongside the Start Your Own Business programme, which helps participants develop ideas into viable enterprises. Targeted training for cottage industries such as Sugarcraft plays an important role within this approach, providing practical skills that can be directly translated into small-scale, home-based or craft-led businesses, supporting them to become sustainable incomegenerating enterprises.

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IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

IRD Duhallow Skillnet IRD Duhallow Skillnet continues to support workforce development across the Duhallow region through highquality, subsidised training tailored to local enterprise needs.

Working closely with the Enterprise Working Group members, industry bodies and businesses in the region, the network delivers practical programmes that strengthen skills, support career progression Attending the Ireland Climate Change and contribute to regional Leadership Award are IRD Duhallow’s Louise economic development. Training Bourke, Aidan Suart, Anne Maria Bourke and during the year covered a broad Belinda Gascoigne of UCC. range of sectors including childcare, agriculture, leadership and accredited professional development, ensuring learning opportunities remain accessible within rural communities.

Supporting the Early Childhood Education Industry in Duhallow Supporting the early childhood education sector remained a key priority during the year. IRD Duhallow Skillnet continued to deliver accredited training pathways for those working in childcare, helping practitioners meet qualification requirements while improving standards across the sector. QQI Level 5 Early Childhood Education and Care programmes continued to attract strong participation, while progression routes at Levels 6, 7, 8 Daryna Liubytska celebrating her Level 5 in and 9 enabled those already Early Childhood Education Graduation with children from the Newmarket Afterschool’s employed in childcare settings to where Daryna works. further develop professionally.

These flexible local opportunities are particularly valuable in rural areas, supporting staff retention, career progression and quality provision for children and families throughout Duhallow.

Employee Wellness Event

morning focused on wellbeing and motivation. The keynote speaker, Dessie Fitzgerald, shared his personal story of resilience, mental wellbeing and personal growth, offering practical insights drawn from both lived experience and professional coaching work.

The event featured Sinéad Lucey Brennan, who spoke about invisible disabilities and resilience following a life-changing stroke and Julie Helen, disability rights advocate, who shared perspectives on inclusion and overcoming barriers. The panel also included Melissa Holland, Development Officer with IRD Duhallow, who coordinates the Workability: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme. Melissa encouraged employers to reflect on their own organisations and consider how they might create opportunities for people with both visible and invisible disabilities. The event provided a positive opportunity for reflection, discussion and support around wellbeing in the modern workplace.

Farm Succession Event Agriculture remains central to the Duhallow economy, and IRD Duhallow Skillnet supported a Farm Succession event aimed at encouraging practical discussion around future farm transfer and sustainability. The event addressed legal, financial and family considerations involved in succession planning and provided farmers with access to expert guidance from Agricultural Solicitor Aisling Meehan. The event also encouraged early planning to support long-term farm viability and continuity across generations.

IRD Duhallow’s CEO Maura Walsh MC’ d the panel at the Farm Succession Talk, pictured with the panellists Aisling Meehan, Paul O’Connell and Colette Vaughan.

Recognition of Learning A major highlight of the year was the Recognition of Learning Ceremony, where more than 200 learners, families and community members gathered to celebrate their achievements. The event recognised graduates from a wide range of IRD Duhallow programmes, including IRD Duhallow Skillnet participants in healthcare, childcare and agriculture.

Graduates from QQI Level 5 and Level 8 programmes were acknowledged alongside learners completing Sustainable Dairy Development and other specialist courses. Special guest Minister Michael Moynihan TD presented certificates on the day which celebrated dedication, achievement and lifelong learning across the region.

International Women’s Day Guest Speakers, Sinead Lucey Brennan, Dessie Fitzgerald and Julie Helen pictured with IRD Duhallow’s Monica Gilmore, Helen O’Sullivan, Melissa Holland, Louise Bourke and board member Mary Wallace.

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, IRD Duhallow Skillnet hosted an Employee Wellness Morning based on the theme “Give to Gain”, bringing together local business owners, managers and employees for a Attendees from the Skills Connect coffee morning with presenter Monica Gilmore, IRD Duhallow.

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Tourism Tourism in the Duhallow region is rooted in its rich cultural heritage, unspoilt landscapes, and strong sense of community. Nestled between the Cork and Kerry borders, the area offers visitors an authentic rural experience shaped by traditions such as music, storytelling, and farming life, alongside outdoor pursuits including walking, cycling, and nature exploration. Increasingly, Duhallow is attracting both returning diaspora and new visitors into the region and supporting the rural economy.

Festivals and Events

Members of the O’Keeffe family from Cork, Kerry, Tyrone, the UK and the USA gathered at the annual Maurice O’Keeffe Festival, highlighting the important role local festivals play in attracting visitors, celebrating heritage and supporting the rural economy.

The Millstreet Stretcher Race continues to be a hugely popular event, drawing large crowds each year as spectators gather to enjoy the atmosphere, support participants, and be part of this unique and entertaining tradition.

Through support from the Day of the Regions Fund in LEADER, IRD Duhallow has played a key role in enabling small community festivals across the region to take place and thrive. These events not only celebrate local culture and heritage but also deliver tangible economic benefits by encouraging people to return home, often bringing family and friends with them. This influx supports local businesses such as shops, pubs, accommodation providers, and service providers, helping to sustain rural economies. In this way, relatively small-scale funding can have a significant multiplier effect, strengthening both community spirit and local economic activity.

A strong example of this impact can be seen in the Rockchapel Gathering Weekend, where support through the Day of the Regions Fund helps bring the community together for a vibrant celebration of local culture, music, and heritage.

Building on the wider benefits of festival funding, the Gathering encourages people with roots in the area to return home, reconnect, and participate in a shared Cork Rose Nancy Lehane officially got the Children’s sense of place. This renewed Tractor Run underway at the Rockchapel Gathering Festival, with an incredible 148 young participants footfall provides a welcome taking part in this hugely popular and fun-filled event. boost to local businesses and community groups, while reinforcing Rockchapel’s identity as a lively, welcoming rural hub.

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Newmarket Pitch and Putt Newmarket Pitch and Putt is a key amenity that not only supports local recreation but also plays an important role in bringing people into the area. Through hosting competitions, club events, and casual visitors, it attracts players from surrounding towns and further afield, increasing footfall in Newmarket. This influx of visitors Newmarket Pitch and Putt course is provides a valuable boost to nearby renowned for its top-quality course, cafés, shops, and other local attracting players from across the region and businesses, while also showcasing further afield, and reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination for the sport. the town as a welcoming and active community. In this way, the facility contributes both to community wellbeing and to the local economy.

Equestrian Tourism Equestrian tourism plays a significant role in the Duhallow region, attracting visitors, competitors, and spectators from across Ireland and internationally. Facilities such as the renowned Green Glens Arena continue to place the area on the global stage, with 2026 set to see prestigious 2026: FEI Eventing World Championship U25 & International Horse Trials coming to the region. A key venue on the international equestrian scene, Millstreet will play host to over 20 different nations competing across a number of events this summer. LEADER funded Kilguilkey House further strengthens this offering, regularly hosting largescale national and international events that draw substantial crowds and generate important economic activity. At a local level, the arenas at the James O'Keeffe Institute provide vital infrastructure for equestrian enthusiasts, supporting grassroots participation, small breeders, and local producers. Together, these facilities create a strong ecosystem that not only sustains the equestrian tradition in Duhallow but also drives tourism and Flying the Irish flag with pride at the Millstreet economic benefit across International Horse Trials, showcasing top-class the wider region. competition and celebrating Ireland’s strong equestrian tradition on an international stage.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Culture & Heritage IRD Duhallow CLG supports the preservation and celebration of the region’s rich culture and heritage by working with local communities to protect historic sites, record traditions, and promote music, and storytelling. Through projects, training, and funding supports, we encourage community led initiatives and raise awareness of the region’s local history and identity.

The Glen Theatre Banteer & Bruach na Carraige Rockchapel; 2 heritage centres in Duhallow which act as hubs for the region for music, dance, drama and storytelling.

The Maurice O’Keeffe Weekend is a staple in the world of music & dance every Easter Weekend in Kiskeam and proudly supported under the Day of the Regions Initiative.

Cultural Publications Preserving the Duhallow heritage through cultural publications has long been supported by IRD Duhallow. Under the current LEADER Programme we were delighted to recently support the Duhallow GAA with the printing of ’Duhallow: A GAA Barony’ book which has recorded the main local GAA events as well as featuring profiles of important individuals and players in Duhallow. In Western Duhallow the Ballydesmond Chronicle which documents all the milestones, memories and spirit of the community was also LEADER funded. While in our South Cork area the Macroom History Group were supported this year with a publication on local history talks covering a wide range of topics.

Pipe Bands: Cullen Pipe Band was founded in 1941and is one of 3 pipe bands in the region alongside Millstreet and Newmarket which is quite unique for such a rural region. All have played across Munster, Ireland and abroad over the years and are a constant feature at many cultural and sporting events in Duhallow. Preserving the tradition of pipe band music in Duhallow is imperative and through LEADER we have been able to greatly support this over the decades. In the current programme Cullen Pipe Band has been supported this year to purchase musical instruments and uniforms for the band which will enable the continuation of their wonderful musical recitals into the future

Podcasting: In a modern approach to preserving local history the Duhallow Podcasting Training programme was launched which provides participants with practical skills to create, record and produce high quality podcasts. Delivered in a supportive and hands on environment the training covered Reminiscing on Rockchapel; A Live Podcast as storytelling, interview techniques, part of The Gathering 2026 helping to preserve audio recording, editing and the history of the region for future generations. publishing. As part of the Gathering 2026 in Rockchapel a live podcast ‘Reminiscing on Rockchapel’ was held and was a great success.

Duhallow Heritage Centres Duhallow is fortunate to have a number of community run heritage centres spread across the region all of which have been supported by IRD Duhallow over the years. Such facilities act as community hubs for young and old to learn and experience the heritage of the region. As with all such facilities upgrading can be required. The Glen Theatre Banteer will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year and has recently been supported to upgrading its external doors, lighting, and audio and visual equipment. Bruach na Carraige Rockchapel is equally renowned as a heritage centre preserving the music, dance and storytelling of the Sliabh Luachra area. Built 26 years ago the facility now requires some upgrading and refurbishment works.

World Champions Cullen Pipe Band who recently received LEADER funding for new equipment and uniforms.

The Duhallow Choral Society To mark their 30th anniversary in May 26 the Choral Society held a concert to celebrate all its achievements’ and contributions. The highlight of this event was the premiere of ‘The Voice of Creation’ which was a specially commissioned composition by Colm O’Foghlú with words written by Newmarket native and author Alice Taylor. The society has enriched the regions cultural life by bringing people together through high quality choral performances, nurturing local musical talent and fostering a strong sense of community.

Duhallow Choral Society Concert; Celebrating 30 years of Choral Music in Kanturk which featured the world premiere of ‘The Voice of Creation’ with members of the Irish Chamber Orchestra. Music composed by Colm O’Foghlú and lyrics by local author Alice Taylor.

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Rural Recreation IRD Duhallow remains committed to supporting the strategic development of rural recreation across the region, with the aim of preserving and enhancing the natural environment while contributing to sustainable local economic growth. Outdoor activity plays a vital role in promoting health and wellbeing, offering diverse recreational opportunities and fostering social interaction for individuals of all ages.

applications we are carrying out works under the following measures: Measure 1 – Small Scale Projects (Funding up to €40,000) Measure 1 supports small scale recreational infrastructure projects with funding of up to €40,000. Under this measure, funding was successfully secured for three projects: the Clara Loop, Mushera, and the Mossy Beds/Inchamay section of the Duhallow Way.

Before and After - works on the Mushera section of the Duhallow Way carried out by IRD Duhallow.

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

The organisation’s Agriculture and Environment Working Groups are guided by the objectives outlined in the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023–2027, Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors. This strategy seeks to safeguard landscapes, habitats, and built heritage through improved planning and management of outdoor recreation infrastructure, providing clear guidance on sustainable development practices.

Recognising the cross-sectoral nature of rural recreation, IRD Duhallow adopts a coordinated and strategic approach, engaging proactively with key stakeholders. These include landowners, community groups, local authorities, the National Trails Office, Coillte, Fáilte Ireland, Sport Ireland, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, farming organisations, the Heritage Council, and other relevant partners.

Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) provides funding to support the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure, as well as the repair, maintain, enhance, and promote existing facilities in rural areas throughout Ireland.

Significant progress has been made across all three projects during 2025 and 2026. Works at Mushera have now been completed successfully. The current objective is to complete both the Clara Loop and Mossy Beds/Inchamay projects by the end of 2026.

Measure 2 – Medium Scale Projects (Funding up to €200,000) Measure 2 provides support for medium scale recreational infrastructure projects with funding of up to €200,000.

Under this measure, funding of €158,000 was secured for the Glen River Walk project. Preparatory work is ongoing, with the project expected to progress in early 2027.

Beara Breifne Way – Project Development Measure Funding of up to €50,000 has been made available under the ORIS Project Development Measure to support the planning and development of strategic large-scale projects.

This project focuses on the development of the catchment section of the Beara Breifne Waymarked Trail, specifically the off-road route from Ballyvourney through the Duhallow area to Liscarroll.

The project development phase is currently underway, with several potential route options being examined to maximise the extent of offroad trail provision. Engagement with local communities and stakeholders is ongoing to support the advancement of the project.

Community groups and individuals who may be in a position to assist, or who have relevant local knowledge or information, are encouraged to contact the Rural Recreation Officer as project planning progresses.

Walks Scheme The Walks Scheme, established in 2008, supports the development and ongoing maintenance of designated walking trails by engaging private

ORIS funded works being carried out by IRD Duhallow on the Clara Loop.

The scheme is focused on supporting projects that not only serve as valuable amenities for local communities but also contribute to the tourism offering, delivering wider economic and social benefits. Over the past 10 years IRD Duhallow has invested over €750,000 in funding from ORIS into developing the regions walks and trails.

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On the current rounds of funding we were successful in five ORIS Work carried out under the Walks Scheme Development fund on Caherbarnagh and Shrone.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Rural Recreation landholders. Under the scheme, landholders or their nominees are contracted to carry out maintenance work on sections of National Waymarked Ways.

IRD Duhallow administers the Walks Scheme for the Duhallow Blackwater Way. This route spans an attractive section of approximately 78 kilometres, extending from Clonkeen Church and Shrone Church, located north and south of the Paps of Anu, to Bweeng in County Cork.

Organised Led Walks Monthly guided walks are delivered across trails throughout the Duhallow region from March to October, providing opportunities for individuals to come together, explore local routes, and enhance overall wellbeing. These walks take place along sections of the Duhallow Blackwater Way as well as a range of looped trails across the area.

Facilitated by IRD Duhallow, these guided walks play a vital role in promoting local walking The IRD Duhallow organised walk on the infrastructure. They encourage Duhallow Way in Shrone led by our RRO. participation in physical activity, foster social connection, and provide meaningful engagement with the region’s natural environment, cultural heritage, and local history.

Section of the Shrone Mór commonage recently added to the Walks Scheme.

Ensuring Standards and Quality Each year, Sport Ireland conducts inspections and compliance audits of all registered trails to ensure they meet the required standards and maintain appropriate insurance coverage.

In January, IRD Duhallow successfully extended the Walks Scheme on the Duhallow to 31 participants.

In addition to each landowner taking part in the scheme, the trails also benefit from the Walks Scheme Development Fund, which has been utilised over the past four years to enhance the Duhallow Way. These improvements have focused on upgrading trail infrastructure and significantly enhancing the overall walking experience.

Furthermore, as a result of developments supported through Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) funding, three additional trails have now become eligible for inclusion in the Walks Scheme. Each of these trails has met the required standards, having successfully completed a Sport Ireland audit and subsequently being added to the National Trails Register.

We will await the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht call for expressions of interest before proceeding with applications to include the relevant landowners in the scheme.

Opening of the Kiskeam Looped Walks Kiskeam looped walks were officially opened by Dara Callery TD Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht in December last year. Together with local public representatives on the evening, a huge crowd gathered at the trail head on the Doon road, where the opening ceremony took place. Fr. Danny Broderick P.P. blessed the walk and then people were invited to complete the walk.

Pat Gabbet CE participant concreting a base for a bench from under Clara mountain looking back at Caherbarnagh and Rathmore during maintenance on the Duhallow Way.

IRD Duhallow, as the trail management agency for routes in the area, is responsible for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure trails remain up to standard, as well as for maintaining all relevant documentation for inspection purposes.

In August 2025, two new trails - the Boherbue Looped Walk and the Kiskeam Looped Walk - were audited.

Both achieved the highest possible ratings and have since been added to the National Trails Register.

In March, Sport Ireland also carried out an inspection of the Island Wood Walk, which likewise attained its highest rating to date.

These outcomes reflect the significant efforts of local landowners, together with participants in the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) and Tús Programme, in maintaining and enhancing the trail network.

Official opening of the Kiskeam looped walks By Minister Dara Calleary.

Sport Ireland Inspector Mark Britton and Rural Recreation Officer Colm O’Connor before a Sport Ireland trail inspection at the Island Wood.

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LEADER In Duhallow Thirty-Five Years of LEADER For over thirty years, LEADER has been one of the most successful and internationally lauded approaches to rural development in the European Union. Born in Ireland and across the EU in 1991 as a deliberately experimental initiative, it has evolved through five successive programming periods to become a cornerstone of EU rural policy, embedded in the Common Agricultural Policy as an expression of Community-Led Local Development (CLLD). Its influence extends well beyond Europe: elements of the LEADER methodology have been adopted or recommended by the OECD – especially in Latin America, and its principles are increasingly recognised in the wider academic literature on community-led development, social innovation, and placebased governance as a model of particular robustness and effectiveness.

IRD Duhallow Independent Project Evaluation Committee members Bernie Collins, Andrew Gillispie, John Fuller, Sean Kelly, Declan O’Keeffe with staff Maura Walsh, Eileen Linehan and Nollaig Murphy. The committee have approved over €1.2m in LEADER projects for the IRD Duhallow LEADER region.

LCDN Conference In Ireland, LEADER has catalysed investment in enterprise, tourism, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and community infrastructure in every rural area of the country. Behind every funded project is a Local Development Company — a partnership organisation rooted in its territory, trusted by its community, and capable of translating local need into effective, accountable action. CAP Network Ireland (the successor to the National Rural Network, which was Ireland’s designated rural development network under the 2014–2020 Rural Development Programme) has documented hundreds of such projects, providing a rich evidential record of LEADER’s reach and impact across the country.

LEADER is not primarily a funding programme. It is a methodology — a specific, structured approach to rural development defined by seven interconnected features, all of which must be present simultaneously for the approach to function as intended. As the EU CAP Network has observed, these seven features define LEADER as a methodology, making it distinct from traditional funding programmes, and success is dependent on all of these features being present and used together. It is the disciplined application of these features in combination that generates the distinctively high quality and locally appropriate outcomes for which LEADER is internationally renowned.

Throughout 2026, the Department of Rural and Community development are spotlighting LEADER and the lasting impact it has had on rural communities. OUR CEO Maura Walsh, participating in the social media publicity drive.

John Feerick CEO Sligo LEADER Partnership and Dr. Brendan O’Keeffe with IRD Duhallow Board Member Mary Wallace and Nollaig Murphy Development Officer at the Local Development Conference – Summit 2030 held in Ballina.

Local Development Companies Network (LDCN) Summit 2030 took place last October in Ballina, County Mayo. The two-day conference gathered hundreds of community leaders, over 40 Local Development Companies, and government ministers to shape a unified vision for community resilience and social inclusion. Key speakers included Minister for Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State Jennifer Murnane O'Connor, and various national and international experts.

Joint Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development The Committee scrutinises the work of the Department of Social Protection and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht along with their respective agencies, and examines expenditure, policy related aspects and EU Matters. The committee is chaired by our local TD, Deputy John Paul O’Shea.

Maura Walsh, CEO featured in the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Social Meda drive highlighting the 35 years of LEADER in Ireland.

LEADER ’23-’27 in the IRD Duhallow Region The budget for LEADER in IRD Duhallow region is just over €2m for projects. Now well into the penultimate year of this programme, IRD Duhallow has committed over 70% of its North Cork budget and 40% of its South Cork. Having held numerous public meetings across the IRD Duhallow region through 2024 and 2025, there are numerous projects in the pipeline, with communities engaging to access funds. We expect to have reached full commitment of the budget by October 2026.

In April, our CEO Maura Walsh and Assistant CEO Eileen Linehan were invited to address the Joint Committee on matters relating to the LEADER Programme and Rural Development including insights regarding reapplication process, programme implementation, funding and community impacts/benefits. Joined by Padraig Fingleton, Donegal Local Development Company, Roísín Lennon and Aileen Duffy, Offaly Development Company and Andrew Ward, Inishowen Local Development Partnership, the committee raised questions in Assistant Manager, Eileen Linehan spoke about relation to the rules and the approval process on the LEADER regulations and budgets of the programme at the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community programme.

Development.

22

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

LEADER In Duhallow IRD DUHALLOW North Cork 2023-2027 % Aid PROMOTER The Green Economy 75% Ballyhass Food Waste Rural Tourism & Recreation 75% IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group 75% Ballydesmond Chronicle 75% Duhallow GAA Book Enterprise Development 75% Duhallow Physiotherapy 75% Scannell Safety Services 75% Fitzpatrick's Groundlift Rural Food 75% DCFS Social, Community & Cooperative Enterprises 75% Bruach na Carraige 100% IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group 90% IRD Duhallow Social Economy Working Group Rural Infrastructure 75% Cullen Pipe Band 46% Bweeng Running Track 75% Knocknagree Community Hall 75% Banteer Community Sportsfield Ltd 75% Kiskeam GAA 75% Newmarket Community Development Association 75% Glen Theatre Accessible Services 100% IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group 75% Newmarket GAA 75% Kanturk GAA 40% Lyre Community Sport and Leisure Association Ltd Rural Youth 70% Kanturk RFC 75% Ballydesmond GAA 72% Meelin Amenity Projects Climate Change & Capacity Building 90% IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group 100% IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation 90% IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group Project Total Committed

PROJECT NAME

GRANT COMMITTED €

€16,701.00 Day of the Regions Publication of annual Ballydesmond Chronicle 2025 Publication of Duhallow GAA Historial book

€30,000.00 €3,180.00 €7,106.00

Reformer Pilates Beds Purchase of simulator for H&S Training Purchase of specialised polyurethane injection pump

€14,657.00 €52,050.00 €29,561.00

Additional space for Rural meals

€50,250.00

Refurbishment of kitchen and toilets Community Governance Training Primary Meals Economic & Social Impact Study

€54,000.00 €5,000.00 €14,999.00

Purchase of musical instruments, materials and uniforms Groundworks for new running track Equipment for new Community Hall Christmas Lights for Banteer Community Development of multi sports play area Christmas Lights for Newmarket Community Refurbishment works

€14,579.00 €100,000.00 €33,600.00 €22,324.00 €26,344.00 €20,000.00 €25,000.00

Community Podcasting Training Surfacing of car park Surfacing of walkway around pitch Resurfacing of park walkway

€4,430.00 €46,393.00 €37,455.00 €24,721.00

Clubhouse renovations Footpath linking pocket park Meelin Playground

€50,000.00 €33,450.00 €99,420.00

Nature Calendars 25-28 Community Biodiversity Training

€8,644.00 €3,375.00

Owentaraglin Fluvial Geomorphology

€10,800.00 €838,039.00

IRD DUHALLOW South Cork 2023-2027 % Aid PROMOTER Rural Tourism & Recreation 75% IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group 75% Macroom History Group 75% Macroom Golf Club Enterprise Development 75% SOR Film Productions 75% Toonsbridge Dairy Ltd 75% Munster Drones Social, Community & Cooperative Enterprises 75% Macroom Business Association 90% IRD Duhallow Social Economy Working Group 100% IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group Rural Infrastructure 75% Macroom GAA Accessible Services 75% Millstreet Community Council 100% IRD Duhallow Community Development Working Group Rural Youth 75% Macroom Family Resource Centre CLG Climate Change & Capacity Building 90% IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group 100% IRD Duhallow Environment Working Group Project Total Committed

PROJECT NAME

GRANT COMMITTED €

Day of the Regions Macroom History Journal 2025 Development of greenkeepers & practice area

€30,000.00 €3,816.00 €39,575.00

Design and production of The Clonbanin Ambush set Investment in production areas Purchase equipment for surveying

€9,000.00 €57,653.00 €73,547.00

Macroom Gift Cards Primary Meals Economic & Social Impact Study Community Governance Training

€20,465.00 €14,999.00 €2,712.00

Macroom Community Car Park

€48,750.00

Upgrading community astro pitch lighting & access Community Podcasting

€13,677.00 €4,430.00

Development of meeting room space

€25,500.00

Nature Calendars 25-28 Community Biodiversity Training

€8,644.00 €3,375.00 €356,143.00

23

- the spirit of rural ireland.

Community Centre Investment Fund The development of the Rylane Community Centre marks a significant milestone in the continued growth and enhancement of community infrastructure in the Rylane area. Funded under the Community Centre Innovation Fund, this ambitious project is being led by IRD Duhallow as the lead partner, working closely with the Rylane Community Park Association to deliver a modern, inclusive, and sustainable facility for the community.

The Rylane Community Park Association has been instrumental in driving forward a long-term vision for the area. As a voluntary, community-led group, the Association has undertaken an extraordinary body of work over a number of years to develop what is now a thriving and well-utilised community park. This project Minister Jerry Buttimer presenting the cheque to has included the acquisition Rylane Community Park Association Committee and development of the site, Members Linda Grimes, Martina Casey and the installation of essential Senator Eileen Lynch. infrastructure such as access roads, parking, lighting and services. It has also included the delivery of high-quality facilities including, a children’s playground, a multi-use games area, and outdoor gym equipment. These achievements are a testament to the dedication, commitment and leadership of the local committee and the wider community.

Minister Jerry Buttimer presenting the official funding cheque for the new Community Centre to representatives of Rylane Community Park Association, IRD Duhallow and pupils from Rylane National School.

The construction of the new community centre represents the next key phase in this wider masterplan. Once completed, it will serve as a hub for community activities, events, training, and social engagement, catering to all age groups and supporting the continued growth and vibrancy of the area.

construction contract was awarded to Lee Therm, a contractor with extensive experience in delivering similar projects. Chris Hawe of OCF Project Management is the appointed construction manager ensuring, value for money, and timely completion.

Ken Lee (Lee Therm), Chris Hawe (OCF Project Management), Louise Bourke (IRD Duhallow), Linda Grimes (RCPA) and Diarmuid Cronin (RCPA) during a site visit as works progress on the new facility.

The project has also benefited from an increase in funding allocation. The original grant approved under the Community Centre Innovation Fund amounted to €1,595,574. Following continued engagement with the Department and the submission of a strong case for additional support, further funding was successfully secured, bringing the total investment to €1,845,950. This increased allocation will ensure that the facility can be delivered to the highest possible standard and will future proof the development to meet the evolving needs of the community.

A number of important milestones have been reached to date. In December, the official turning of the sod was carried out by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, marking the formal commencement of construction works. This was a great occasion and celebration for all the community and Fr. Peadar Murphy gave a special blessing on the new construction site. This was followed a couple of weeks later by the official cheque presentation by Minister of State, Jerry Buttimer, highlighting the strong support for the project at national level and recognising its importance to the local community. The children of Rylane N.S. put on a short display for Minister Buttimer and gave a rousing rendition of the Bould Thady Quill.

Construction works have now commenced on site and are progressing well. The project is expected to be completed by October 2026, at which point the Rylane Community Centre will stand as a landmark achievement for the area. It will not only enhance the existing amenities within the community park but will also provide a lasting legacy for future generations.

Significant progress has already been made on the project. The design of the centre has been completed by RDF Architects, ensuring a highquality, energy-efficient building that reflects the needs of the community. Following a competitive procurement process, the

A strong community turnout gathered to mark the official sod turning ceremony with Minister Dara Calleary.

24

Construction works underway on the new Community Centre in Rylane.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

SICAP The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) is an Irish government initiative designed to reduce poverty, promote social inclusion, and support equality across communities. It focuses on empowering disadvantaged individuals and groups by improving access to education, employment, and community engagement opportunities.

Delivered in North West Cork and East Kerry by IRD Duhallow, SICAP targets those most at risk of social exclusion, including the long-term unemployed, people with disabilities, migrants, and disadvantaged youth.

SICAP Development Officer Meeting.

The programme operates through two main goals: supporting communities and supporting individuals. At a community level, it helps build stronger, more inclusive local networks by funding grassroots projects, encouraging volunteerism, and strengthening community leadership. At an individual level, SICAP provides tailored supports such as skills training, and pathways into education or employment.

A key feature of SICAP is its emphasis on collaboration and local knowledge, ensuring that supports are responsive to the specific needs of the area. By addressing barriers such as low education levels, discrimination, and limited access to services, the programme contributes to long-term social and economic inclusion. Overall, SICAP plays a vital role in fostering equal opportunities and improving quality of life for marginalised communities in Duhallow.

ACTION

CORK

KERRY

Goal 1

€

€

3,848.92 2,290.61 1,558.31 1,397.70 57.00 135.60 1,205.10 3,039.76

1,118.31 626.21 492.10 60.82 18.00 42.82

Action 1 Stakeholder Engagement IRD Duhallow Newsletter Discover Duhallow - Promotion of SICAP Funded Events Action 2 Inclusive Community Engagement SAOI Network - Assisted Decision Making Event Meetings Kanturk Brogeen Bridge Club Action 3 Empowerment of 'Hard to Reach' Community Groups Kerry Community Awards Meetings Boherbue Dancing Uniforms Boherbue Mens Group Action 4 Collaborative Networks Meetings Saoi Network Leaflets Dawn Mass Bealtaine 2025 Seniors Conference Action 5 Integration of New Communities SPSL Intercultural Awareness Webinar for Students Intercultural Awareness Seminar Multicultural Christmas 2025 Action 6 Community and Social Enterprise Rathmore SAG Western Duhallow Mens Shed Total Goal 1 Budget

39.76 1,000.00 2,000.00 2,006.86 72.64 148.19 349.60 630.62 805.81 1,697.00 494.00 1,203.00 2,000.00 2,000.00 13,990.24

ACTION Goal 2

CORK €

KERRY €

Action 7 Connecting Youth Provision Unpacking Diverse Minds Public Speaking for National Schools Parenting Workshops A/Winter Apprenticeship Workshop Action 8 Community Education & Lifelong learning Smart Devices Progressive Computers (Intermediate) Training Booklets Women's wellness 2025 Bee keepers First Aid (Bealtaine) Painting Classes Sewing Classes IT Farming Course Freemount Women's Shed chair yoga project Action 9 Disability & Mental Health Comm Inclusion Spring Summer Towards Occupation New Directions formerly TO A/W Action 10 Labour Market Activation Basic First Aid Working at Heights Training Manual Handling Instructor Course CPR and AED Training A/Winter Training Brochures IPAF Mobile Elevated Work Platforms Solas Safe pass Action 10 Job Centre Newspapers Emotional Support for Job Seekers Action 11 Self Employment SYOB Training Business Mentoring Farm Succession Event Action 12 Supporting Disadvantaged Children & Families Facebook Ad Cyber Safety Creative Puppet Workshop Literacy Kerry Meetings Action 13 Adult & Second Chance Education Tracy Asemota Kanturk Hillclimbers Remote Emergency Care Total Goal 2 Budget

6,019.10 988.00 1,631.67 911.57 2,487.86 9,320.24 943.92 1,573.20 434.83 0.00 228.00 456.00 1,518.93 2,641.37 524.00 1,000.00 4,551.70 2,763.56 1,788.14 7,088.48 547.98 323.00 2,463.59 354.05 673.73 760.00 1,966.12 2,154.30 330.30 1,824.00 4,646.40 3,012.00 1,634.40 0.00 5,846.79 65.62 281.20 516.80 4,968.17 15.00 820.00 500.00 320.00 40,447.01

1,900.76 312.00 515.26 287.86 785.64 3,890.64 298.08 496.80 137.31 1,136.00 72.00 144.00 479.66 961.32 165.47 0.00 1,412.12 847.44 564.68 2,239.29 173.04 102.00 777.98 111.81 213.58 240.00 620.88 680.30 104.30 576.00 2,203.60 1,008.00 345.60 850.00 1,843.79 22.67 88.80 163.20 1,569.12 0.00 0.00

14,170.50

Action 14 Ukrainian Support Drop in Clinics Together Hub Be Kind to Your Mind Ukrainian Easter Programme Bespoke English Classes Multicultural Christmas 2025 Total Ukrainian Support

5,995.96 1,302.79 1,059.82 273.60 856.73 1,008.00 1,495.01 5,995.96

5,989.19 411.40 334.67 86.40 270.54 4032.00 854.18 5,989.19

1,002.54 1,000.00 2.54

960.93 18.20 110.40 202.00 630.33 292.40 100.00 156.00 36.40 2,500.00 2,500.00 5,935.00

Andrew Lewis, Cork County Council, Susan Randles, Pobal and Triona Dennehy, IRD Duhallow at a SICAP Engagement Meeting in County Hall.

25

- the spirit of rural ireland.

Communicating Europe Communicating Europe is an initiative of the Department of Foreign Affairs which brings together people of all ages and walks of life to learn about the European union. IRD Duhallow has run this initiative since 2022 and secured funding again to implement further events for 2025/2026. The initiative serves to strengthen dialogue between citizens and policymakers by backing locally driven projects that help raise public awareness of European affairs. The theme for this round of events was ‘The EU as a Change Agent: Your Europe in the Duhallow Region”.

In Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026 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 became involved in locally organised classroom-based events. Interactive Boherbue students greatly enjoyed a group workshops were held in classroom table quiz that was arranged as schools throughout the Duhallow part of their 2025 CEI activities.

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 exploring the evolution of the European Union. All students participated in workshops that provided an understanding of the history and development of the modern-day European Union, tracing its evolution from the aftermath of World War II to its current structure. Events 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 Duhallow youth and communities. The students learned how the European Parliament is the largest elected parliament in the world and most students were able to name some of Ireland’s thirteen Members of the European Parliament.

Local projects supported through EU funds were a significant feature of these workshops, and the student groups heard about the impact of the LEADER and SICAP programmes, as well as EU LIFE. Groupwork included competitive classroom-based table Transition Year students in Coláiste Treasa quizzes where teams challenged Kanturk participated in group work as part of activities delivered in the school through themselves to achieve the highest Communicating Europe. possible scores.

Students in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra greatly enjoyed a workshop delivered by Dr. Brendan O’Keeffe as part of Communicating Europe.

Students in St. Mary’s Secondary School Macroom attended a workshop delivered by Dr. Brendan O’Keeffe in early 2026 as part of their Communicating Europe Initiative activities.

Transition Year students in Millstreet Community School with their teacher Mr. Shane Guerin and Dr. Brendan O’Keeffe.

Students at Scoil Mhuire Kanturk participated in a Communicating Europe Initiative Workshop in 2025.

26

Students in Scoil Mhuire undertake a quiz as part of their Communicating Europe workshop.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Communicating Europe A highly engaging workshop was organised for the IRD Duhallow Workability Group in 2025. This event inspired a specially arranged excursion to the Europa Experience in Dublin for this group. The Europa Experience is situated in Chatham Street in Dublin. Visitors to this centre can discover how the EU works and how the decisions taken

by Parliament, Commission and IRD Duhallow’s Workability Group visited the Council affect European Citizens.

Europa Experience in Dublin in December 2025.

Here guests can listen to stories of how EU policies have shaped the lives of people from all around Europe, find out about how citizens can have a say. Highlights of the group’s trip were the interactive multimedia spaces on site including a 360-degree cinema space.

A specially organised talk was delivered to the group which tied in with the workshop they participated in earlier in the year.

Members of the IRD Duhallow Workabilty Group who attended a Communicating Europe workshop in the James O’Keeffe Institute.

In March 2026 students in St. Mary’s School Macroom gave a warm welcome to Ireland South MEP who visited the Transition Year classes to speak in relation to Ireland’s place in Europe. Mr. Kelleher spoke to the students in relation to his own career and educational progression. He also gave an informative presentation on the formation and evolution of the European Union and the opportunities and the challenges that have occurred in the intervening period including the war in Ukraine. Students heard details of Mr. Kelleher’s policy related work within the European Union and what his committee work entails including debating issues affecting Ireland. He also spoke to group on European security, social media and the issue of misinformation.

understanding of the role of a M.E.P. and the functions of the European Parliament. A broad range of subjects were discussed including Ireland’s accession to the EEC in 1973, and the changes that have been bought about since this time. The students also heard insights from Ms Funchion in relation to her professional experience, academic journey, and female representation in Irish and EU politics. The event gave students valuable insight into how EU funding supports the development and success of community initiatives and local projects. IRD Duhallow C.E.O. Maura Walsh spoke to students highlighting what has been achieved locally in over three decades of bottomup rural development for communities in Duhallow. Ms. Walsh also shared insights into the milestones reached by Ireland in over 50 years of EU membership, particularly in relation to women in the workforce. Ms. Frances Moynihan Deputy Principal of Millstreet Community School also addressed the group describing how the school was built in 1973, coinciding with the year that Ireland joined the EEC.

Students in Millstreet Community school with Kathleen Funchion MEP, Frances Moynihan Deputy Principal, Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow and Nollaig Murphy Development Officer IRD Duhallow.

Throughout the project activities students heard that Ireland will be taking up the Presidency of the council of the European Union on the 1st of July.

This will be the eighth time that Ireland has held the rotating presidency and there will be many events organised that will see Ireland planning and chairing Council meetings and negotiations. Engaging young people will be an important part of Ireland’s Presidency along with strengthening community connections. Across the Duhallow Region the level of interest and engagement shown by the young people in attendance at Communicating Europe events was particularly notable, with many asking thoughtful questions, actively participating in discussions, and demonstrating a strong awareness of the issues being addressed. Positive youth engagement and civic responsibility was a characteristic of this initiative, encouraging informed participation and active citizenship throughout.

TY students in St. Mary’s Secondary School Macroom gave Billy Kelleher MEP a warm welcome in March 2026. Also pictured are principal Mr. Stephen McLaughlin, staff member Mr. William Ronan, Maura Walsh CEO IRD Duhallow and Nollaig Murphy Development Officer Nollaig Murphy.

In May 2026 Kathleen Funchion MEP visited Millstreet Community School and addressed Transition Year Students. The timing of the visit was particularly significant, as it coincided with Europe Day which fell on Saturday, the 9th of May. Students engaged enthusiastically throughout the session, posing thoughtful and insightful questions that further deepened their

IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh and Assistant Manager Eileen Linehan with Kathleen Funchion MEP at the James O’Keeffe Memorial Institute.

27

- the spirit of rural ireland.

Afterschools Since opening its doors in 2005, IRD Duhallow Newmarket Afterschools has become an essential support for families in Newmarket and surrounding areas. The service continues to provide a welcoming, and stimulating environment that supports the social, emotional, and educational development of children while assisting families to balance daily life.

A Vital Local Service Children are collected daily from Newmarket National Schools, Staff member Daryna Liubytska with her ensuring a smooth and secure colleagues and children who attend the transition from school to the Afterschools excited to celebrate with her on her service. The Breakfast Club graduation for the Level 5 in Childcare Course. operates from 7:00am to 9:00am, offering children a calm start to the day with breakfast, games, and access to the sensory/chillax room before being brought to school. This early morning support remains invaluable for working parents.

The Afterschools Team; led by Bernie O’Connor with her colleagues Elmira Pshenychna, Sinead O’Mahony, Daryna Liubytska and Halyna Lytvynenko.

In the afternoons, children are welcomed into a supportive environment where they receive a nutritious dinner provided by Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS). Homework support continues to be a key aspect of the service while also helping children who may require additional educational assistance.

Afterschool activities remain child-led and varied, encouraging creativity, learning, and wellbeing. Children participate in STEM activities, art, baking, gardening in the polytunnels outdoor play, pitch and putt, nature walks and free play which allows children to relax and decompress after the school day.

Our natural playground is a popular feature which was designed for the children’s needs, encouraging imaginative and physical play while connecting children with nature. The addition of a football pitch has proven particularly popular.

We also actively engage with the IRD Duhallow Community Food Initiative (CFI), promoting healthier eating habits and nutritional awareness within the local community. The CFI programme helps children participate in practical activities including fruit and vegetable tastings. This has supported early exposure to healthy eating habits in a fun, accessible, and inclusive way.

Recognition Fund

The new copper roof on the Newmarket Afterschools supported under the Community Recognition Fund.

Significant improvements were completed to the Afterschools building during the 2025 to 2026 period. Renovation works included the installation of a new copper roof replacing the original roof under the Community Recognition Fund. These upgrades have greatly improved the long-term sustainability and safety of the facility.

The kids enjoying their homemade Halloween treats once their cooking creations were complete!

Camps Holiday camps throughout Easter, Summer, and Halloween continue to attract strong interest. Themes such as Little Chefs, Nature Detectives, Whizz Kids, and seasonal camps combine creativity, literacy, STEM learning, outdoor education, and TTRS supports in an inclusive and engaging environment. This is all Natural Playground: Always a great space for fun and games supported by IRD Duhallow staff and local primary school teachers who join the team for these camps.

Since July 2025 we expanded our opening hours to full days 8am-6pm to support working parents during the school holidays.

28

Children attending our Nature Camp with IRD Duhallow EIP Community Animator Aidan Suart and Afterschools staff Orlaith Twomey, Elmira Pshenychna and Sinead O’Mahony.

The team continues to operate smoothly, with the five staff members working collaboratively to provide a high-quality and consistent service for children and families. Coordinated by Melissa Holland and managed

by Bernie O’Connor alongside Daryna, Elmira, Sinead and Halyna, IRD Duhallow Newmarket Afterschools remains a vital community resource where children are supported to learn, grow, and thrive.

20th Anniversary IRD Duhallow Afterschool is currently operating at full capacity, with a strong commitment to maintaining this level of service into the future.

In September of last year, we were proud to celebrate 20 years of school age childcare, an important milestone that highlights two decades of dedicated service to the community. Looking ahead to 2026 and 2027, IRD Duhallow aims to further enhance its visibility and strengthen its impact across the wider community. As part of these plans, preparations are underway to welcome Minister Norma Foley to visit the Afterschools service. This visit will provide an opportunity for her to engage directly with the children, staff, and families who benefit from the service, showcasing the meaningful work being carried out.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Equality and Social Inclusion Introduction IRD Duhallow is committed to promoting equality, diversity and social inclusion across the region. Through targeted programmes and community-based initiatives, the organisation works to remove barriers to participation, particularly for those in rural and disadvantaged communities. By supporting access to nutritious food, employment opportunities and inclusive community events, we aim to enhance wellbeing, encourage active participation and strengthen social connections, ensuring that all individuals can fully engage in community life.

Community Food Initiative: Since April 2025, IRD Duhallow has been involved in the Community Food Initiative (CFI), a four-year programme funded by Safefood promoting healthier eating in rural and low-income communities by improving access to affordable, practical and nutritious food.

Launching The Community Food Initiative in Duhallow are Chairperson Anne Maria Bourke, Development Officers Mariia Palchak and Nollaig Murphy & Team Leader Helen O’Sullivan.

Our programme addresses barriers such as food affordability, limited access to fresh produce and gaps in food education.

Through cooking demonstrations, nutrition workshops, community events and awareness campaigns, it supports individuals and families in making informed food choices while strengthening social inclusion and community wellbeing. In its first year we delivered activities to improve food skills and awareness, including CORU-registered dietitian-led talks and cooking demonstrations focused on simple, budget-friendly meals.

Young people were also engaged through afterschool activities such as fruit and vegetable tastings and creative food sessions. In 2026, this work expanded through family cooking workshops encouraging shared learning within households. Participants received Children at Newmarket Afterschools ingredient packs to support participating in a food art session. continued learning at home. As part of the Bealtaine Festival, a nutrition talk titled “Strong Body, Sharp Mind: Nutrition for Life” focused on healthy ageing and everyday dietary advice. The event was well attended and received very positive feedback.

MAP Launch.

pathways. The project provides targeted supports such as workplace language training, digital skills development and sector-specific orientation.

To date twenty participants have received workplace language support and completed training at “beginner” and “pre-Intermediate” levels. The programme has achieved positive engagement from migrant communities through outreach activities, information sessions and individual support planning.

Through ongoing collaboration with local employers and our Enterprise Network the key sectors experiencing labour shortages and demand for skilled workers have been identified. This engagement will strengthen opportunities for future apprenticeship placements, employment progression and inclusive recruitment practices across the region.

Multicultural Christmas Evening IRD Duhallow hosted its annual Multicultural Christmas Evening in Newmarket, bringing families together to celebrate the festive season in an inclusive and welcoming environment. The event welcomed over 130 children and family members and reflected the growing diversity within the Duhallow community. The evening featured a wide variety of activities for children with a special visit from Santa and Mrs Claus creating a memorable moment. The continued success of this initiative highlights the importance of creating opportunities for families from different backgrounds to come together, celebrate diversity, and strengthen community ties across the region.

Jeriah Gaffney and Junia Gaffney meet Santa and Mrs Claus at the Multi Cultural Christmas Event.

Dietitian Shirely Beattie giving a talk on Healthy Eating as we Age as part of Bealtaine 2026.

Migrant Apprenticeship Pathways In February 2026, IRD Duhallow and Ballyhoura Development officially launched their joint initiative MAP Ireland – Migrant Apprenticeship Pathways with Minister Niall Collins. The programme is funded under the Integration and Employment of Migrants Action of the Employment, Inclusion, Skills & Training (EIST) Programme 2021–2027 and supported by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and the Government of Ireland.

MAP aims to increase awareness, develop skills and strengthen participation of migrant communities in apprenticeship and employment

The Fitzpatrick Family; Edith, Liz, Elsie May, Shane and Neilie Joe O'Keeffe enjoy the IRD Duhallow Multi Cultural Christmas Event.

29

- the spirit of rural ireland.

Community Development IRD Duhallow’s Community Development approach places local people, knowledge, and strengths at the heart of rural progress. Through its Community Development Working Group, communities are supported to recognise and build on the assets that already exist within their areas many of which may be underutilised or overlooked. Using an Assets Based Community Development approach, this process empowers individuals and groups to take an active role in shaping their future.

Central to this work is the belief that communities should lead the decisions that affect them. On the ground, Development Officers work closely with communities, animating projects, strengthening capacity and helping to identify the most relevant opportunities for growth and improvement.

Investing in Rural Infrastructure

events to exercise classes, training sessions, and youth activities.

Communities have been supported to come together to design and create safe playgrounds, multi-use games areas (MUGAs), walking and running tracks and in suitable locations. These spaces are strategically located to encourage family engagement and active participation across all age groups, including older children (Right to left): Monica Gilmore, Lenora Kelly, and teenagers, while also Dennehy, Colm O’Connor, IRD Duhallow, ensuring accessibility for TrionaAndrew Lewis, Cork County Council individuals with disabilities and exhibiting at the Municipal District Grants Roadshow in Kanturk. neurodivergent needs. Ensuring full accessibility is a priority, with a focus on enabling people with disabilities to access community facilities safely and independently.

Community Governance

State of the Art Running Track at Bweeng Community Grounds supported under the theme of Rural Infrastructure in the LEADER programme.

Rural communities rely on social infrastructure to interact and form bonds as part of healthy, inclusive, and sustainable communities. Each community is unique and it is not possible to apply a single approach to infrastructure development and redevelopment. IRD Duhallow supports the development of existing and new multi-use, cross functional, multigenerational accessible spaces that enhance the attractiveness of rural areas and contribute significantly to overall quality of life.

Many existing community halls and facilities are in need of investment to ensure they continue to serve their communities effectively. This includes upgrading buildings, extending existing spaces where needed, and improving key facilities such as kitchens and toilet areas. Making these improvements helps ensure that William O’Riordan, Clondrohid Playground spaces are comfortable, practical Committtee, Triona Dennehy, IRD Duhallow and fit for purpose. There is also a and Gerard Kelleher, Clondrohid GAA discussing LEADER applications for funding need for small scale equipment at a site visit in Clondrohid. and resources that allow a wider range of activities to take place, from community meetings and social

Community Governance Training delivered to Community Volunteers by a tutor from the Carmichael Centre, Dublin.

A clear need was identified to support both new and existing committee members and trustees in understanding their roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes. Strengthening this understanding helps reduce confusion and potential conflict, while promoting more informed and balanced decision-making. Community groups also face a range of legal and regulatory obligations, including financial management, safeguarding, and data protection. This governance training was designed to ensure members are fully aware of these requirements and help groups to minimise risk. In addition, the training aimed to build leadership capacity by equipping participants with the skills to effectively chair meetings, manage teams, and adopt a more strategic approach to planning, rather than focusing solely on day-to-day operations. Emphasis was also placed on forward planning, including succession planning and setting long-term goals to support the sustainability of groups beyond their current membership. By improving understanding of governance structures and processes, the training is expected to increase volunteer confidence and engagement, supporting better retention and attracting new participants.

Western Duhallow Elections The Board comprises of 26 members drawn from the public, private, community, and voluntary sectors, reflecting a balanced and inclusive structure. Eight community representatives are democratically elected to represent key geographic areas South Eastern, Western, North Eastern and Southern Duhallow bringing local knowledge and experience into decision-making. Board members show a high level of commitment to the strategic development of their areas. Their active participation in planning and decision-making ensures that IRD Duhallow remains responsive, adaptable, and effective on the ground. In 2026, Aisling Collins Gneeveguilla joined the board representing Western Duhallow.

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Development Officers Lenora Kelly and Ciaran Carmody with Michael Creed, former Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed representing Macroom GAA who were successful in their application for LEADER funding to develop a community carpark.

Discover Duhallow Magazine IRD Duhallow’s in-house magazine has become an established and valued publication, delivered to households across the region every

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Community Development

‘Discovering Duhallow’; President Catherine Connelly with Senator Nicole Ryan at a national media press conference on her campaign trail in Millstreet.

second Friday. It serves as an effective communication tool, connecting communities and individuals while promoting local events, sharing news, advertising job vacancies, and supporting local businesses. With 4,000 copies per issue, complemented by an online edition, the magazine plays an important role in enhancing community engagement and helping to address rural isolation. The Discover Duhallow publication in particular provides a dedicated space for showcasing community projects, sharing local stories, and highlighting opportunities for participation, ensuring that individuals remain informed and connected to activities in their area.

This ongoing communication plays an important role in fostering community cohesion, encouraging participation in local initiatives, and supporting the organisation’s broader goal of reducing rural isolation and improving quality of life across Duhallow.

Day of the Regions Now in its 14th year, the Day of the Regions Project is firmly embedded within communities across Duhallow and continues to play a key role in supporting local groups to plan and deliver a diverse programme of events and festivals. Funded through the LEADER programme, the initiative is designed to celebrate the unique cultural, social, and heritage identity of the region, while bringing people together and strengthening community spirit and pride of place. The project has supported a wide variety of successful events to date, ranging from the Maurice O’Keeffe Festival, the Ballinagree All-Ireland Bowling Series, the Donoughmore Carnival to family fun days in Rylane, Kiskeam, and Kanturk. These events not only provide important social and recreational opportunities but also contribute to local economic activity by attracting visitors and supporting local businesses. Engagement levels remain strong, with communities continuing to show enthusiasm and initiative in developing new ideas and expanding existing events. There is full schedule of summer activities planned, further reinforcing the project’s role in enhancing community cohesion and supporting rural vitality across the region.

Day of the Regions 2026 supported the Millstreet Busking Festival which started in 2025 and was a great success again this year.

2025 was the Inaugural year of the Millstreet Busking Festival which was a resounding success and supported under the Day of the Regions Programme.

Chairman of Banteer Community Sportified Dermot McCarthy, Santa Claus and Banteer Christmas Lights project organiser Majella McHugh at the official turning on of the LEADER funded Christmas lights in Banteer.

Kerry Community Awards IRD Duhallow plays an active role in supporting the judging process for the annual Kerry Community Awards, an initiative that celebrates the outstanding contribution of community and voluntary groups across the county. The awards recognise projects and initiatives that enhance the social, economic, cultural, and environmental quality of life in both urban and rural communities throughout Kerry.

Local Community Safety Partnership.

Local Community Safety Partnerships are being established nationwide with the aim to prioritise the voice of local people in identifying and addressing community safety issues in collaboration with a broad range of relevant stakeholders. IRD Duhallow welcomed an invitation to join these committees with Maura Walsh sitting on the Cork Partnership and Helen O’Sullivan representing IRD Duhallow in Kerry. The aim of these partnerships is to prioritise issues identified by the community as safety concerns, ensure community engagement, develop a community safety plan and improve multi agency collaboration.

Cllr Niall Kelleher Chairperson of the Kerry Local Community Safety Partnership with Helen O’Sullivan of IRD Duhallow and members of the Community Safety Committee Kerry at its Inaugural Meeting.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Support For Ukrainian Refugees Over the last year the Integration Team has continued to actively support refugees, asylum seekers, and economic migrants living across the Duhallow region. Over this period, we have seen positive progress in how individuals and families are integrating into local communities and becoming active members of society. Many are now employed in local supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, factories and pharmacies, while others are engaging in community activities, including participation in St. Patrick’s Day parades, volunteering and community groups.

IRD Duhallow first began supporting refugees from Ukraine in 2022, developing strong levels of trust within the community. New arrivals to the region are frequently referred to the Integration Team by people already settled locally, with contact details often shared through word of mouth.

This reflects the trust placed in our team and the value of the services provided.

supported this area of our work for the past three years and subsequently complements our other funding streams and activities.

Training and Education • 10 participants completed HACCP Level 2 Food Safety Training, supporting both upskilling and access to employment opportunities in hospitality and retail.

• IPAF Training provided participants with both theoretical and practical certification in operating lifting platforms, improving employability and career prospects.

• Customer Service Training focused on communication, conflict management and service quality improvement.

Creativity & social connection promoted via Flower decoration workshops proved very popular at Christmas time.

Medical support Through our partnership with the HSE we continue to support weekly clinics every Thursday with interpretation support in Woodbrook Family Practice. This enables individuals with limited English to access healthcare services through local GPs. Accommodation In collaboration with the Local Authority Housing Teams we support property owners who wish to provide accommodation to people under Temporary Protection, connecting available housing with families in need. With significant changes under the Accommodation Recognition Payment Programme already in place and more changes expected this is proving to be a very uncertain time for Ukrainians living locally.

Since 2022, we have had to actively leverage funds to ensure we can deliver the much-needed supports. All funds have been delivered alongside each other, ensuring complementarity of programmes.

Language barrier Language skills remain one of the main barriers for new arrivals. In response, and with support from the Community Integration Fund 2025, a 16-week English language programme, “Duhallow English Connect: Community Language Empowerment”, was delivered. In addition, our SICAP-funded Evening Participants on our Duhallow English Club continues to provide weekly Connect Community Language opportunities for participants to Empowerment (pre-intermediate group). improve their English through film screenings and interactive quizzes in an informal and supportive setting.

Participants on IPAF course funder under REACH.

Wellbeing Supports We delivered a range of supports, including an 8-week yoga programme in Kanturk and Newmarket, which promoted physical and mental wellbeing, stress reduction and practical self-regulation techniques. A 6week wellbeing course with Alice O’Brien focused on resilience, self-care and personal development. Floristry and arts and crafts workshops supported creativity, social connection and emotional wellbeing, particularly for those affected by displacement.

Climate Literacy and Sustainability Workshops delivered by The Environmental Forum increased awareness of energy efficiency, sustainable food practices and responsible travel. Forest bathing sessions encouraged connection with nature, understanding of local ecosystems and improved wellbeing through outdoor activity.

Tutors from the Environment Forum Through these initiatives, IRD delivering a workshop on Climate Literacy Duhallow has continued to with Ukrainians in Duhallow. strengthen integration, social inclusion, employability, wellbeing and community participation among migrants, refugees and asylum seekers across the Duhallow region.

Drop in Clinics SICAP funding also supports our ongoing Drop-in Clinic project, with monthly sessions held in Kanturk, Banteer and Rathmore. These sessions provide a safe and welcoming environment where participants can access information, receive support with challenges, and connect socially over tea, helping to reduce isolation and support wellbeing.

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REACH Through REACH funding in 2025, IRD Duhallow delivered activities focused on education, wellbeing, employability and climate literacy for migrants and refugees. The REACH programme, delivered by the ETB, has

The Island Wood was an ideal location to deliver some wellbeing supports via a Forest Bathing session.

Yoga class in Newmarket led by Irina Popova of The Infinite Arts.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Duhallow Carers The Duhallow Carers Network, established in 2006, continues to play a vital role in supporting Family and Voluntary Carers throughout the Duhallow region. Monthly support meetings are held in the James O’Keeffe Institute, with a strong and consistent level of attendance throughout the year. The network provides a welcoming and supportive environment where carers can share experiences, exchange information, and access peer support from others in similar situations.

The Duhallow Carers Group enjoying an evening meal at their Annual Christmas Dinner.

members, enabling them to develop new skills, build confidence, and engage in targeted training opportunities that support both their personal wellbeing and day-to-day caring responsibilities.

HSE Funding: The HSE continued to provide Tutor Alice O’Brien with Section 39 funding during the participants from our Mindfulness year, supporting the operational and Mental Health programme. costs of the group and helping to subsidise the many events and activities organised for carers. This funding remains essential in ensuring that supports and activities remain affordable and accessible to all carers. Many family carers continue to experience significant financial pressures, particularly those relying on Carer’s Allowance as their primary source of income. For carers providing full-time support, the emotional and financial demands of caring remain considerable. In response, the group remains committed to keeping participation costs to a minimum so that all carers can avail of the supports, social opportunities, and services provided by the Duhallow Carers Network.

Throughout the year, the Duhallow Carers Network organised a wide range of activities and events aimed at supporting the wellbeing and social inclusion of carers. The annual programme included key events such as the summer outing, summer barbeque, annual carers mass, and Christmas outing, alongside a variety of workshops, information sessions, and training opportunities delivered through the Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF) Carers Fund 2025–2026. These activities continue to provide valuable opportunities for carers to connect, learn, and take time away from their caring responsibilities.

Dormant Accounts Funding 2025-2026: Last year, we were delighted to secure funding for a two-year programme, which has already proven to be a major success. This funding has allowed us to further grow the group, provide invaluable learning opportunities, and create meaningful lifelong experiences for carers across the region.

Family carers, who provide unpaid care to relatives and loved ones, often experience social isolation, emotional strain, and difficulties accessing services and supports. Throughout this two-year programme, IRD Duhallow has continued, and will continue, to deliver a comprehensive range of supports aimed at addressing these challenges. This includes regular group meetings that encourage peer connection and the sharing of experiences, initiatives focused on health and wellbeing such as mindfulness and stress management, and access to training and resources that empower carers in their caring role.

Learning and creativity on display during one of our Sewing Class sessions.

Participants in our Mental Health First Aid Training funded through DAF Carers.

To date this year, the group has participated in a wide variety of activities and training opportunities including Sewing for Beginners, Mindfulness and Mental Health, PHECC First Aid, Beginners Computers, and many more. This funding has provided an excellent learning platform for

A memorable day out in West Cork during the Duhallow Carers Group Summer Outing.

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

Women often face unique social, economic, and educational challenges that can lead to isolation and limited opportunities. The Women’s Forum continues to evolve in response to an ever-changing society, supporting and empowering women of all ages and backgrounds.

Chairperson to Geraldine Galvin. The strong attendance and waiting list reflected the significant interest in the event, which provided an empowering platform for women to connect, share experiences and celebrate the valuable contribution of women to community and rural development.

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

IRD Duhallow’s Women’s Forum is affiliated with the National Women’s Council of Ireland, ensuring that the women of Duhallow are recognised and represented at local, national, and international levels.

IRD Duhallow is proud to have an all-female management team and to have achieved gender balance on its board. We are committed to promoting inclusive and diverse leadership, reflecting our core values and mission

A sea of smiles and raised hands at IRD Duhallow’s International Women’s Day 2026 celebration.

Celebrating Women in Business Duhallow Women’s Conference International Women’s Day Event To mark International Women’s Day 2026, IRD Duhallow hosted a sold-out celebration on 7th March under the theme “Give to Gain,” bringing together 80 women from across the region for a morning of inspiration, learning and community connection. The event featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including broadcaster Brenda Dennehy, Máiréad Moriarty, Orla Murphy, Lorraine Leahy and IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh, who shared insights on personal growth, wellbeing, leadership, resilience Chairperson of IRD Duhallow, and community development.

Anne Maria Bourke, former Chairperson of The gathering was opened by the Women’s Forum Judy O’Leary and Women’s Forum Chairperson IRD Duhallow’s CEO Maura Walsh.

Judy O’Leary, with guests enjoying brunch prepared by Duhallow Community Food Services. A highlight of the event was the recognition of Judy O’Leary’s outstanding contribution and leadership of the Women’s Forum, as she was presented with a bouquet of flowers on the occasion of handing over the role of

At the 2025 Duhallow Business Awards, female entrepreneurs featured strongly across a wide range of award categories, reflecting the significant contribution women make to the economic and social fabric of the region. From retail and hospitality to professional services, health, wellbeing and the Hair and Beauty sector, women-led businesses were recognised for their innovation, resilience and commitment to excellence. Their Rebecca Murphy, owner of The Beauty Zone success highlights the growing in Kanturk, winner of the influence of female “Best in Hair and Beauty” category at the IRD Duhallow Business Awards 2026. entrepreneurship in rural Ireland and demonstrates how women are creating employment, driving business growth and contributing to vibrant local communities throughout the Duhallow region.

Finalist for the IRD Duhallow Business Awards Amy Dennehy form Mama is a Dreamer.

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Guest speakers from the International Women’s Day 2026, Lorraine Leahy, Orla Murphy, MC Brenda Dennehy and Máiréad Moriarty.

Promoting Women in Sport A Nutritional Education Talk was delivered to the Newmarket Ladies Football Team to support player development, performance and overall wellbeing. The session provided participants with practical, evidence-

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Equality For Women & Childcare based guidance on nutrition for training, match preparation, recovery and long-term health. The programme helped players develop positive nutritional habits, enhance athletic performance and improve wellbeing, while also supporting participation in women’s sport and strengthening community-based sports development within the region. This event was made possible through funding provided by SICAP.

IRD Duhallow Assistant CEO Eileen Linehan Chairperson of Cork County Childcare Committee, with staff members Karen O’Sullivan, CEO and Magda Czewska, Development Officer.

Members of Newmarket LGFA pictured at their recent nutrition and wellbeing talk.

Duhallow North Cork Childcare Network The Duhallow North Cork Childcare Network was established by IRD Duhallow 11 years ago to bring together managers from community childcare services across North Cork and East Kerry. It has become a key forum for collaboration, allowing members to share experiences and develop practical responses to challenges in governance, staffing, compliance, sustainability, funding, and training. The Network now includes managers from 20 community-based childcare facilities, along with representation from Cork County Childcare Committee and IRD Duhallow. By promoting shared learning and peer support, it strengthens the resilience and quality of community childcare services across rural Cork.

Capacity and Growing Demand in Duhallow There are currently six full-time community childcare facilities in the Duhallow region, as well as several preschools and school-age services.

Demand is extremely high, with most services operating at full capacity and, in some cases, no longer maintaining waiting lists. Currently, over 672 children attend with 156 staff employed in these services.

Community childcare services play an essential dual role providing early years education while also supporting local employment and strengthening community cohesion. There is a clear need particularly evident in rural towns such as Newmarket, Kanturk, and Millstreet for additional investment with further establishment of more community childcare services in our towns and villages. This future investment is being tackled by the current Government’s €135 million programme for new Early Years and School-Age Childcare facilities. It is due to commence in 2026 and will present a significant opportunity for expansion. It is hoped that at least one town in Duhallow will benefit from this initiative.

Addressing barriers to participation will be important to maximise its impact.

Community childcare in North Cork remains vital to supporting families, sustaining rural communities, and enabling economic participation.

Through the leadership of the North Cork Childcare Network and IRD Duhallow, significant progress has been made. Continued investment, workforce development, and strategic planning will be essential to ensure sustainable growth and meet future demand for the region.

Melissa Holland IRD Duhallow with members of the North Cork Childcare Network at their first meeting of 2026.

Workforce Development and Career Pathways Workforce development and staff retention remain major challenges for community childcare services in Cork, particularly in rural areas where recruitment pools are limited. Raising awareness of childcare as a professional career is essential to addressing this issue. Through collaboration with IRD Duhallow Skillnet, accredited childcare training programmes from Levels 5 to 9 have been developed and delivered.

These courses provide clear progression pathways for those entering and advancing in the sector. Community childcare services have supported this approach by offering work placements to Level 5 students, helping to build practical experience and identify potential future employees.

Training for managers in the area of human resource management and pensions have also been delivered with Skillnet support.

IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh, MEP Kathleen Funchion and Senator Nicole Ryan pictured at an event hosted by IRD Duhallow promoting awareness of the Zero Tolerance campaign.

Good governance is essential in all community childcare services as it ensures boards and managers understand their respective roles and responsibilities, leading to more effective decision making. It promotes accountability, transparency and compliance with legal and regulatory requirement, supporting the development and regular review of policies, procedures and strategic plans, helping services to operate efficiently and sustainably.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Saoi Network In traditional Irish culture, older people were deeply valued within their communities for the knowledge and wisdom they had gained over a lifetime. The word “Saoi” was used to describe an elder known for insight, experience, and guidance. Reflecting this tradition, IRD Duhallow established the Duhallow Saoi Network as a support system for older people in the region.

The network brings together representatives from 21 active retirement groups, who meet quarterly at the James O’Keeffe Institute in Newmarket.

Supporting people in later life is a key focus for IRD Duhallow, particularly as almost 16% of the local population is over 65—considerably higher than the national average.

To better respond to this demographic, IRD Duhallow has carried out a detailed assessment of the needs of older people. This has highlighted the importance of targeted initiatives that promote social inclusion. Key areas of focus include health and well-being, transport, housing, safety, social connection, and financial security.

The Saoi Network plays an important role in representing these needs, helping to shape initiatives that encourage active ageing and ensure older people remain connected, supported, and involved in their communities.

Development and the European Social Fund Plus under the Employment, Inclusion, Skills, and Training (EIST) Programme 2021–2027, as well as HSE funding.

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 May A wonderful turnout for the 2026 Dawn Mass, 1st, 2026. Blessed with mild, dry as the community gathered together at the weather, it was a truly special and Source of the Blackwater. memorable morning for all who attended. Mass was celebrated by Fr. Tom Looney, with beautiful musical performances by Laura Dunlea.

IRD Duhallow’s 7th Annual Seniors’ Conference

A Movie Day was held on 11th May as part of the Bealtaine Festival, featuring a shared lunch followed by a screening of The Banshees of Inisherin, bringing people together for an enjoyable afternoon of film and conversation.

Senior Conference 2026 Mary Hickie , IRD Duhallow’s CEO Maura Walsh, Aileen Hickie, Chairwoman Saoi network Kathleen Moylan, Development Officer Lenora Kelly, Team Leader Triona Dennehy.

IRD Duhallow’s 7th Annual Seniors’ Conference took place in October 2025 at the James O’Keeffe Institute in Newmarket, welcoming over 220 guests. The event was a huge success, with demand so high that many people had to be placed on a waiting list.

The conference was officially opened by Saoi Network Chair Kathleen Moylan. Saoi is IRD Duhallow’s Active Retirement Network, representing 21 groups across the region and supporting older people to stay active, connected, and involved in their communities.

Guest speaker Aoife McDonald delivered an informative talk on nutrition and healthy ageing, encouraging attendees to make small lifestyle changes to improve wellbeing. Shane McHale outlined the wide range of supports available through IRD Duhallow, including walking groups, book clubs, and listening services. Entertainment was provided by John O’Sullivan, whose jokes and recitations brought plenty of laughter to the marquee. Popular speaker Colette Vaughan returned to provide advice on welfare rights and entitlements, while Nora Keane led an uplifting chair yoga session. The event concluded with an inspiring keynote address from Aileen Hickie, CEO of Parentline. Guests also enjoyed lunch from Duhallow Community Food Services and music from Sheila Fitzgerald.

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The event was made possible through funding from the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), co-funded by the Irish Government through the Department of Rural and Community

A total of 18 events took place as part of Bealtaine 2025, including a Movie afternoon, conversational Irish class, Grief and loss information session, and a variety of activities organised by local active retirement groups to mark the festival.

Jack’s Mystery Tour is always a highlight of the Bealtaine calendar as we fondly remember Jack Roche, former chairman of the Saoi Network, who passed away in January 2024. On Thursday, 28 May, Rockchapel Young at Heart members from various Active Retirement Bealtaine event. groups travelled to County Kerry for this year’s Mystery Tour. The day began with tea and scones at The Rose Hotel, followed by a visit to Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium. Members then enjoyed lunch at the famous Páidí Ó Sé’s Pub before travelling on to Blasket Centre. The group also took a scenic drive through Dingle Peninsula before finishing the day with an excellent dinner at Devon Inn Hotel. It was a most enjoyable day for everyone and a lovely opportunity for members from different groups to come together and enjoy each other’s company.

The Saoi Network during the annual Jack Roche’s Mystery Tour, pictured at one of the tour’s stops - Páidí Ó Sé’s Pub.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

WorkAbility: Progressive Pathways to Employment Without access to meaningful work, many individuals struggle to access employment or to upskill through education. Co-funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) through the Employment, Inclusion, Skills and Training (EIST) Programme 2021–2027 alongside the Department of Social Protection (DSP) the IRD Duhallow WorkAbility programme aims to bridge this gap by supporting people into sustainable and fulfilling employment.

people develop confidence in a real-world setting, without the added pressure of full-time hours.

It focuses on those often underserved by traditional education and employment systems, particularly individuals with disabilities or nontraditional learning needs.

Brendan Fuller of Radio Kerry gave his time to the Workability Programme by supporting participant Tim Twomey with job shadowing sessions.

Dr. Anne Marie McIlwraith delivered an Essential Life Skills workshop to Workability participants.

Workability Participants; Noah Byrne & Gearoid Meehan lift the Sam McGuire & the Liam McCarthy Cups on an organised social trip to Croke Park.

Participants also took part in social and educational trips. A highlight was a visit to Croke Park in November, a first-time experience for many. On the same day, they visited the Europa Experience, where they learned about the role of the European Union and its relevance to Ireland.

In Cork County, access to employment remains unequal with 21% of the population living with at least one disability. Many others experience hidden disabilities, including mental health conditions and autism, which further limits opportunities. The lack of adequate public transport is another barrier. These challenges are a reality in Duhallow.

Our Workability programme has evolved with a unique person-centred approach placing strong focus on one-to-one mentoring and tailored career guidance. With support from tutor Ailbe Coffey and co-ordinator Melissa Holland, participants identify and develop their strengths. More than 30 individuals have benefited from this approach to date, demonstrating its impact. Driving lessons are also a priority where participants are supported to obtain learner permits and full driving licences.

The programme also combines individual supports with group-based learning, where they join as a group twice a week. Group programmes are typically for those aged 18 to 30 and complement supports available to people of all ages. Sessions throughout the year have included: • Financial literacy and budgeting with MABS Mallow • Digital technology and social connection • Creative writing and drama • Social farming • WorkWise and social relationships • Mental health awareness • Life Coaching These sessions help build confidence, skills and readiness for employment. Our current participants will graduate from the programme this August with new participants already enrolled for the next semester.

Job-shadowing has been a key highlight of the programme. It allows participants and employers to better understand each other and eases the transition into the workplace. This was delivered in collaboration with local businesses, including Radio Kerry and Doneraile House. Additionally, some participants have also progressed into TÚS or CE schemes that. This has helped

Daniel O’Loughlin pictured with Doneraile Court Manager, Aileen Spitere, and Tour Guide Peter O’Donoghue.

Workability participants at the Europa Experience talk in Dublin.

In January IRD Duhallow hosted Amanda Fox of Autastic for a workshop on neuroaffirmative workplaces. She shared practical ways employers can adapt roles and environments to support neurodivergent and disabled staff. The session also highlighted supports available through the Department of Social Protection. This was a very informative workshop for IRD Duhallow staff who support so many participants on programmes, local businesses and social enterprises across Duhallow.

Looking ahead the programme will deepen engagement with local businesses and prioritise job-shadowing for the participants in the programme. The aim is to promote inclusive practices and highlight the value of a diverse workforce. This is essential for the continued growth of the Duhallow economy, as greater inclusion can help address labour shortages while promoting social equity. Accredited training courses will also feature in assisting those suitable to upskill.

Amanda Fox from ‘Autastic’ delivered a Neuroaffirmative Workshop to staff of IRD Duhallow and Duhallow Community Food Services.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Disability And Mental Health The last 12 months has seen IRD Duhallow broaden our efforts in addressing mental health with a whole of life, whole of community approach. Mental Health is everyone’s business, relevant to all, and IRD Duhallow has taken significant steps towards creating a community that is empathetic, empowered and educated on matters relating to our mental health.

However, our biggest collaborators towards reaching our goals are the community members of Duhallow themselves. Lived Experience has become an integral part of our approach. Lived Experience in this case refers to people who have experience of living with and recovering from mental health challenges. Therefore, when community members engage with us they know that we are not merely talking the talk, but have walked the walk too.

The Wellbeing & Recovery College The first service of its kind in this region, the Wellbeing & Recovery College has Lived Experience at its core. Shane McHale who coordinates this service is not just presenting information, but also draws upon his own experience of living with depression, recovering over time and rebuilding a life and sense of self that goes beyond his diagnoses. This opens the door for others to share their own experience and insights, struggles and successes.

Aisling Meehan addressing a full marquee at the Planning for Tomorrow farm succession event.

Attendees of this service are referred to as students, and our modules follow the academic calendar. Students may find themselves supporting someone they care about, others are in recovery from mental health challenges themselves and many simply want to learn more about how to take care of their own wellbeing. Students get to enjoy a sense of community, of connection and of belonging to something bigger.

Our Role in Mental Health Support The role of IRD Duhallow is to provide ongoing, easy to access, nonclinical services that act as supports in mental health recovery, or ideally, play a part in preventing challenges arising in the first place. This cannot be done in isolation of course. Much of our efforts are complementary to existing mental health services where we act as a bridge for those either seeking to engage with, or step down from, mainstream mental health services. We also work alongside other services in IRD Duhallow, such as the Local Area Employment Services, Workability and Tús all of whom are supporting participants and clients in the area of employment and progression but can encounter mental health and wellbeing challenges also.

Patrick Breen, Brian Casey, John Horgan, John Fitzgerald, and Barry Clarke of the New Directions group, pictured with Ellie Donovan and Shane McHale of IRD Duhallow.

Some of the students of the Wellbeing & Recovery College pictured with Helen O'Sullivan, Community Services Team Leader and Shane McHale of the Rural Community Health Project.

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Patrick Breen, Brian Casey and John Fitzgerald of our New Directions Group meeting Michael Healy-Rae T.D.

Rural Isolation The Rural Community Health Project, a collaborative effort between IRD Duhallow and the HSE, is the only one of its kind in the country and operates in three locations across North Cork: Duhallow, Ballyhoura Development and Avondhu Blackwater. Established to address the high levels of mental health challenges and suicide in our region, the project is now in its fourth year and has recently been extended for another three years. IRD Duhallow’s many years serving the community means that it is an ideal host for this project as it presents us with the opportunity to build upon pre-existing links and relationships in the community.

Members of the Reading for the Brain Bookclub sitting down to Christmas Lunch last December.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Disability And Mental Health themselves. Men’s Sheds have emerged as a key piece of infrastructure in reaching the men of our community and this year IRD Duhallow has continued to support their development locally by supporting, through grant aid, the Western Duhallow Men’s Shed with an extension to their base in Kiskeam.

Members of the Walking & Social Club in Killarney. Photo by Mary Kate Barry.

Creating opportunities to tackle rural isolation is a priority of this project.

This can take many forms, one of the most successful of which is the Walking & Social Club. Every week our walkers meet twice a week for exercise and conversation, usually the walks take place in the Island Wood in Newmarket. For those looking to exercise the mind, we have our ‘Reading For The Brain’ Bookclub who meet weekly to discuss the current book they are reading, and perhaps discuss a few other topics too! Our New Directions group for people experiencing long-term challenges to their mental health and wellbeing meet every Friday, and take part in activities such as arts and crafts, computer skills, mindfulness and much more under the guidance of activities coordinator Thomas Dillon. In Social Farming, the group help out with every stage of the garden’s production, from setting seeds to planting, weeding and eventually harvesting. They have also recently supported a very successful plant sale here in Newmarket.

All of these clubs provide valuable social outlets, that are free to attend, where like-minded people come together to enjoy the presence of others and participate in the community life of Duhallow.

We also work collaboratively with other events and teams in IRD Duhallow, such as the recent session on “Grief & Loss” which was held as part of the Bealtaine Festival, or addressing the Seniors Conference to raise awareness of mental health challenges. When one-to-one support is required, our Listening Service is available to provide free, confidential support to community members who are experiencing difficulties of any kind.

Planning For Tomorrow The long-term safety, health and wellbeing of our farming community was the primary focus of “Planning For Tomorrow”, a series of events supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. A wide range of activities were undertaken including tractor safety training for teenagers and chainsaw safety courses. The highlight was our Farm Succession event headlined by agricultural solicitor Aisling Meehan which was a complete sell out with over 100 farming families in attendance. We took the opportunity to provide free blood pressure checks for the community, provided by the Irish Heart Foundation, and our range of mental health supports were highlighted in a presentation during the event.

Participants in the Chainsaw Crosscutting Training as part of “Planning for Tomorrow”, supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine.

Men’s Mental Health 2026 will see the launch of the IRD Duhallow Men’s Forum, which will add value to the work already being done by the likes of the Men’s Sheds and will be a forum for raising the issues that are impacting men. This structure will ensure bottom up participation and solutions from the community members

Completing the ENGAGE Connecting with Men Training. Pictured are: Micheál Costello of Shine, Lenora Kelly, Melissa Holland, Lorcan Brennan and Stephen Mbwicka of the Men's Development Network, Colm Crowley, Alina O'Mahony, Shane McHale & Aidan Suart.

Whole of Community approach Everyone has mental health and mental health and wellbeing is for everyone. That’s why IRD Duhallow places great emphasis on training our staff so they are equipped to support community members in whatever they encounter. This year staff have undertaken ENGAGE Connecting With Men training, delivered by the Men’s Development Network, to learn more about how to tailor their work to meet the needs of men and encourage participation. IRD Duhallow staff also completed SafeTALK this year. This suicide awareness and intervention training equips staff with the skills to identify people who may be at risk of suicide and the skills and confidence to engage with these people in a supportive manner.

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 Christine O’Riordan 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, with 5 volunteer counsellors now meeting clients. It is available to anyone living in the Duhallow area to access.

Christine O’Riordan Co-ordinator of the IRD Duhallow Emotional Support Programme with newest volunteer therapist Bríd O Riordan.

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Local Area Employment Service (LAES) IRD Duhallow Local Area Employment Service (LAES) provides tailored employment support and guidance to jobseekers, assisting individuals to access, return to, or progress within the workforce. The service is delivered on behalf of the Department of Social Protection under the National Employment Action Plan, with a strong emphasis on one-toone engagement, career planning, and linking clients with relevant training and employment opportunities.

Progression: Supporting progression into employment remains a key focus of the LAES programme. To date, 34 participants have successfully progressed into full-time employment through the guidance and support provided.

Through SICAP and internal IRD Duhallow training opportunities, clients have developed valuable skills, increased confidence, and moved closer to entering the workforce.

Following national reform, a new Regional Employment Service model was introduced to replace the previous Jobs Clubs and Local Employment Services in urban areas. IRD Duhallow became part of a successful consortium in August 2022 to deliver this service across the Cork region, promoting a more streamlined and consistent approach while still responding to local needs.

Cork City Partnership leads the consortium, alongside IRD Duhallow, SECAD, Avondhu Blackwater Partnership, and Ballyhoura Development.

Cork City Partnership delivers services within the city area, while each partner organisation works within their own LEADER regions, ensuring strong local knowledge and consistent support across communities. This collaborative structure allows services to remain accessible, responsive, and tailored to the needs of both rural and urban clients.

Key Highlights from This Year: LAES Case Officer Carla Araye during a one-to-one meeting with a client.

• 736 referrals to date: A total of 736 individuals have been supported through LAES, reflecting continued demand for accessible, locally delivered employment supports.

LAES Case Officer Carla Araye in the new LAES waiting room.

• New office space: The Newmarket office relocated to a newly renovated ground floor space, improving accessibility and client engagement.

The upgraded facility includes a welcoming waiting area, information screens promoting IRD Duhallow activities, and access to useful resources such as leaflets and Social Welfare forms.

The Macroom office also remains an important hub for service delivery in Mid-Cork, with improved signage increasing its visibility along the town’s main street.

Support continues after employment has been secured, with case officers carrying out follow-up meetings every 17 weeks to monitor progress and identify any additional supports required. Participants remain connected with IRD Duhallow for up to 52 weeks after entering employment, helping to promote sustainable long-term employment outcomes and ensuring individuals feel supported throughout their transition into the workplace.

• Ongoing staff training: Case officers continued to strengthen their skills through professional development opportunities including suicide prevention training, financial awareness for non-financial workers, and Insights profile training, ensuring high-quality support for clients.

Case Officers Lenora Kelly and Ciaran Carmody outside our Macroom LAES Office, located above Deasy’s Pharmacy in the WorkBase Coworking Hub & Offices.

‘My experience with the LAES programme was really positive. I gained new information and learnt about new opportunities/support that was available to me. The LAES officer I worked with was very easy to talk to and always helpful with any questions I had. They took the time to go through everything clearly and always replied promptly any time I had a question between meetings. The meetings were flexible and always worked around me, which made things much easier. I was able to go from part-time to full-time employment with their support so I’m really glad I took part.’

Sandra - LAES Client

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LAES Case Officers (L–R) Ciaran Carmody, Lenora Kelly, and Yuliia Iliashenko.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Community Employment IRD Duhallow continues to deliver its Community Employment (CE) Scheme on behalf of the Department of Social Protection, providing structured employment supports to individuals who are long term unemployed across the Duhallow region.

The CE Scheme operates as part of IRD Duhallow’s broader employment and community support services. While the Tús initiative supports individuals taking initial steps back into the workplace, the CE Scheme offers a more structured and developmental pathway. Through tailored Individual Learner Plans, participants are supported to identify career goals, gain relevant work experience, and build the skills necessary to transition into sustainable employment. The complementary nature of Tús and CE ensures a clear progression route for participants.

The CE Supervisor and Assistant Supervisor play a central role in mentoring and guiding participants, ensuring they build competencies, confidence, and practical experience. The role also involves maintaining strong administrative oversight and effective management of financial and material resources.

Elaine McDermott DSP presenting a commemorative plaque to Maura Walsh CEO of IRD Duhallow CLG and Staff celebrating 30 years of CE in the community.

Scheme Capacity and Community Reach The CE Scheme has now been expanded and has been granted 51 places, reflecting both demand and the continued confidence in the programme’s impact. This increase allows the scheme to further strengthen its contribution across the region.

The scheme supports communities in: Ballydesmond, Rathcoole, Boherbue, Ballydaly, Kilcorney, Dromtariffe, Lyre, Newmarket, Kiskeam, Knocknagree, Cullen and Banteer.

Paddy O’Connor, CE Scheme Supervisor, conducting an induction session with new participant Dean Brosnan from Banteer.

In addition to these areas, CE participants contribute to a number of established community enterprises including: Meals on Wheels, Community Laundry, Furniture Revamp, Duhallow Community Food Services and Discover Duhallow.

New areas of support include: The Glen Theatre, Duhallow Walks Development and Circular Cups Initiative.

These placements further diversify the work experience available to participants, particularly in community tourism, environmental initiatives and sustainable practices. The continued expansion of placement opportunities ensures the scheme remains responsive to both community needs and participant interests.

Assistant CE Supervisor Amanda Kelleher delivering a manual handling training session for CE and new TÚS participants.

To be eligible for the CE Scheme, applicants must register with their local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office and must be in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for a minimum of 12 months prior to application.

Training and Upskilling Opportunities A distinguishing feature of the CE Scheme is the strong emphasis placed on accredited training.

The Department of Social Protection funds a range of certified programmes, with qualifications awarded through recognised bodies such as QQI, SOLAS and City & Guilds.

Training is viewed not only as a pathway to employment but also as a means of building confidence, self-esteem and personal growth.

Participants are actively encouraged to undertake specific skills training aligned with their career goals.

Training Undertaken This Year Over the past year, participants engaged in a wide variety of certified training programmes, some of which included: Manual Handling, Chainsaw Crosscutting & Maintenance, PHECC First Aid Response FAR Training, Graphic Design Diploma, Upholstery, Adult Education, Microsoft 365 and First Aid Training for Coillte.

All courses undertaken were accredited through SOLAS, QQI or City & Guilds, ensuring participants receive recognised and transferable qualifications.

The contribution of CE participants across these services is significant and continues to play a vital role in sustaining local community infrastructure.

Purpose and Participant Development The core objective of the Community Employment Scheme is to support individuals who are long-term unemployed in re-entering the workforce.

Participants may remain on the scheme for up to three years, subject to meeting the requirements for progression, during which time they: • Gain structured work experience • Undertake accredited training • Participate in personal and professional development • Work through an Individual Learner Plan

Philip Casey maintaining the green area at Fairview Field in Knocknagree.

Testimonial “While on the CE Scheme, I have learnt many new skills and have advanced my work skills though the laundry. It makes you feel like you are part of things and boosts your confidence.”

Joan Sheehan working in the laundry, taking a customer order over the phone.

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Youth and Education The IRD Duhallow Youth and Education Work Group is the umbrella structure for all that we do in relation to youth and their families in Duhallow, promoting social, inclusive, personal, and education development of young people. Community youth and sports groups play a vital role in rural Duhallow by supporting young people’s social development, wellbeing, and sense of belonging while providing positive activities and opportunities for engagement within their community. It is imperative volunteers are supported to continue this great work.

interactive environment focused on emotional wellbeing and selfexpression. The workshop explored self-awareness, empathy, and resilience through creative and play-based activities, encouraging children to better understand and communicate their emotions. Parents participated alongside their children, engaging in reflective exercises that strengthened emotional connection and positive communication within the family. The workshop created a safe and supportive space for shared learning, helping to build stronger family relationships.

Future Planning with Apprenticeships

Due to its success a second programme was delivered ‘Extraordinary Me’ specifically for children struggling with anxiety and overwhelming emotions. The workshop focused on their strengths and building on their self-worth, while recognising the emotions and connection between feelings and actions.

Literacy Advancement Initiative

Students and young adults pictured with Patrick Nealon from Career Services and Melissa Holland, Development Officer attending the Apprenticeship Assessment Workshop.

Through SICAP, an Apprenticeship Assessment Workshop was delivered which provided participants with comprehensive insight into the selection tests and interview procedures commonly used in national apprenticeship competitions, including those organised by respected employers such as ESB and Aer Lingus. Through a combination of interactive sessions, and mock assessments, attendees were guided through each stage of the application process. This is from aptitude and psychometric testing to structured interviews and presentation techniques. The training emphasised the development of transferable skills that are valuable not only for apprenticeships but for any future employment opportunities. The thirty-six students participating from three secondary schools and some participants from our WorkAbility programme, strengthened their communication and interpersonal skills, reporting afterwards, more confidence in professional self-presentation.

In addition to the in-person component, each participant was granted access to an exclusive online learning platform for 12 months, designed to support ongoing preparation and self-directed learning. This digital resource allows users to revisit course materials, practice sample tests, and refine their interview strategies at their own pace.

Children and Family Empowerment: Also through SICAP a workshop 'Extraordinary Me: Turns Inside Out' was facilitated by Grace Dorgan, Play Therapist. This workshop brought parents and children together in an

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Minister Jerry Buttimer sparring with Senior & Elite National Champion Linda Desmond of Rylane Boxing Club on his visit to the boxing club where he was informed of the great work they have done with young people for decades.

Bright smiles at the end of the term for Literacy and TTRS proudly holding up their certificates and trophies with teachers Ciara Harnett, Sarah Jones, Katie Hickey and IRD Duhallow staff, Nollaig Murphy and Melissa Holland.

Running for over two decades, IRD Duhallow provides invaluable literacy classes and Touch Type Read Spell (TTRS) sessions weekly, throughout the school year, for children that require additional support with literacy.

It is led by teachers with a low student-to-teacher ratio, focusing on enhancing students' reading, writing, and spelling skills through a variety of activities. The TTRS computer programme employs modules, repetition, and dictation exercises to boost reading, listening, and typing proficiency while reinforcing overall learning. This programme helps children develop essential computer skills, including proper mouse usage and correct finger placement for typing. In conjunction with IRD Duhallow Newmarket Afterschools, IRD Duhallow also offers supports throughout the summer running two weeks of summer camps which have a special focus on literacy activities through science experiments

Lauren Philpott receiving her Certificate and trophy from Teacher Ciara Hartnett and Chairperson Annemarie Bourke at the IRD Duhallow Recognition of Learning Ceremony.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Youth and Education and computer skills. To celebrate the dedication and progress of participants at the end of the school year, IRD Duhallow hosts an annual Recognition of Learning Evening. This year the event recognised twentyfour children who completed the 2025-2026 Literacy Advancement and TTRS for Children programmes. Families, teachers, and tutors gathered to celebrate each child’s achievements. The celebration, attended by tutors Katie Hickey, Sarah Jones, Ciara Harnett and staff Nollaig Murphy, and Melissa Holland, was a heart-warming reminder of the importance of empowering young learners and a testament to the sustained commitment of both the children and their educators.

Public Speaking

encouraged the students, saying: “If you can speak well, you can influence and change lives, your own and others.” Adult evaluator and accomplished speaker Amanda O’Sullivan provided positive feedback on behalf of the IRD Duhallow Board. She praised the children’s speech content and offered guidance on techniques, highlighting the importance of their achievement. The students demonstrated skills such as intonation, structure, eye contact, voice projection and expressive delivery. IRD Duhallow Development Officer Nollaig Murphy thanked parents, guardians and teachers for their support and commended the children’s enthusiastic participation. Each child received a trophy and certificate to mark their achievement. The event concluded with a powerful group recital of the poem I Have a Voice, leaving a strong impression of the bright future ahead for these young speakers.

Understanding ADHD

‘Understanding ADHD’ event in partnership with Tusla was a great success with guest speaker Martin Finn alongside Stephanie Heffernan Tusla and Annemarie Bourke, Helen O’Sullivan, Melissa Holland of IRD Duhallow and Lynda Monahan Tusla.

Participants of our 2025 public speaking event, with tutor Siobhán Fitzgerald, IRD Duhallow Board Member Amanda O’Sullivan and IRD Duhallow Development Officer Nollaig Murphy.

The James O’Keeffe Institute in Newmarket was the venue for a wonderful occasion in October 2025, when Duhallow national school students gathered to deliver speeches for the annual IRD Duhallow public speaking event. Funded through the SICAP programme and supported by the IRD Duhallow Youth and Education Working Group, the day marked the culmination of workshops focused on developing public speaking skills and confidence.

Under the expert guidance of Dr. Siobhán Fitzgerald, creator of the Let’s Stand Programme, a range of engaging speeches were eloquently delivered. Let’s Stand is designed for primary school children, breaking public speaking into an accessible, enjoyable format. Dr. Fitzgerald, a teacher, author, podcaster, Dragons’ Den contestant and TEDx speaker,

Danny Hughes receiving his presentation in recognition of his excellent speech on the historic Moylan’s Cave in Newmarket as part of the Public Speaking Programme.

Though the Duhallow Child & Family Support Network we worked in collaboration with Tusla to facilitate an information event on Understanding ADHD which we co funded under the Parent Peer Support Fund. The event helped parents in the region to understand more about themselves and their children. Annamarie Bourke Chairperson of IRD Duhallow opened the event spoke on the importance of awareness and education around neurodivergence. Martin Finn, Service Development Manager from ADHD Ireland Cork was the main speaker for the event along with Stephanie Heffernan Tusla who co ordinated it. Martin spoke candidly about his lived experience of having ADHD and dispelled myths commonly associated with it highlighting the superpower within ADHD that can contribute to a fulfilling career and life.

Great attendance at our Understanding ADHD event, with Annmarie Bourke Chairperson IRD Duhallow opened the event.

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Employment and Training Community Education and Lifelong Learning Community Education and lifelong learning play a vital role in supporting individuals to build confidence, develop new skills, and progress along educational, social, and personal development pathways. IRD Duhallow places a strong emphasis on providing accessible, learner-led opportunities that respond to the needs of disadvantaged and marginalised groups within the community. By creating supportive and inclusive learning environments, these programmes encourage participation from individuals of all ages and backgrounds, helping to reduce isolation and promote equality of opportunity.

opportunities are available throughout the region.

Job Centre: IRD Duhallow’s Job Centre continued to provide dedicated one-to-one support to individuals seeking to improve their employment opportunities and progress towards sustainable employment. Through confidential meetings with our Development Officers, clients received tailored guidance in areas such as CV preparation, cover letters, interview skills, career planning, and identifying suitable education, training, and upskilling opportunities.

Over the past year, a wide range of community-based learning initiatives were delivered across the Duhallow region. These included sewing classes, Farming IT, Intermediate Computers, and art classes, each designed to meet the varying interests and needs of participants. The sewing and art classes provided creative outlets that encouraged selfexpression, confidence building, and social interaction, while also supporting wellbeing and community engagement. The Farming IT and Intermediate Computer courses focused on improving digital literacy and practical technology skills, enabling participants to become more confident in using online services, communication tools, and digital resources in both their personal and professional lives.

Lenora Kelly, Development Officer, providing support to a client through IRD Duhallow’s Job Centre.

The service remains accessible to individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or facing barriers to entering the workforce, including young people, lone parents, migrants, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Alongside personalised support, the Job Centre also provides valuable insights into the local labour market and assists clients in connecting with potential employers and employment opportunities.

Sean from Island Training assisting a participant during a Beginners Computers class.

These initiatives not only supported lifelong learning and digital inclusion but also fostered stronger community connections by bringing people together in shared learning experiences. Participants had opportunities to build friendships, exchange knowledge, and support one another in a welcoming and encouraging environment. Many learners reported increased confidence, greater independence, and a renewed interest in further education and training opportunities as a result of taking part in these programmes.

By offering practical guidance, encouragement, and ongoing support, the Job Centre continues to help individuals build confidence, develop new skills, and take positive steps towards achieving long-term employment and career progression.

Labour Market Activation: Training and upskilling remained a key focus for IRD Duhallow throughout the year, with a strong emphasis placed on providing accessible learning opportunities for people across the rural community. Through the SICAP programme, participants were supported to gain practical qualifications and experience through courses such as Safe Pass, Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (IPAF), ATV Quad Bike Training, Abrasive Wheels, and a range of other certified programmes designed to meet local employment needs.

Through continued investment in Community Education and lifelong learning, IRD Duhallow remains committed to empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and ensuring that accessible learning

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Participants pictured with staff from Beauty Zone , Kanturk, who delivered a four-week makeup course.

Participants in our ATV/Quad Bike Training which took place at IRD Duhallow.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Employment and Training Alongside community training initiatives, investment was also made in staff development, with four IRD Duhallow staff members successfully completing Manual Handling Instructor Training during 2025. This achievement strengthens the organisation’s internal capacity while also supporting the future delivery of training within the region.

Training booklet IRD Duhallow’s training booklet is an excellent and informative publication that effectively promotes the wide range of programmes, workshops, and training opportunities available within the local community. The booklet is professionally presented and clearly organised into three main sections — Programmes for Youth / Children / Parents, Self Improvement Courses, and Industry Related Programmes — making it easy for readers to find courses suited to their interests and needs.

It is produced twice yearly in Spring / Summer and Autumn / Winter editions, ensuring the community stays updated on new courses, events, and seasonal opportunities throughout the year. Approximately 4,000 copies are printed and distributed locally each edition, helping to ensure wide accessibility across the region. In addition, the booklet is available on our website, which serves as a one-stop shop for all announcements, events, and up-to-date information about IRD Duhallow activities and services.

Cover photo of the 2026 spring summer training booklet.

Isabelle Morgan, who is completing work experience with IRD Duhallow this summer, carrying out administrative duties.

The continued demand for these programmes highlights the importance of flexible and locally delivered training opportunities.

By supporting individuals to gain recognised qualifications and develop practical workplace skills, IRD Duhallow continues to promote confidence, progression, and greater access to employment opportunities throughout the Duhallow area.

REACH Funding 2026 In 2026, IRD Duhallow was granted REACH Funding under the Community Education Participants taking part in Mobile Elevated Work programme, supporting the Platforms (IPAF) Training funded through SICAP. organisation’s continued commitment to lifelong learning, social inclusion, and community development across the Duhallow region. This funding will help expand access to educational opportunities, skills development initiatives, and learner supports for individuals and communities who may face barriers to participation in education and training.

Recipients of certificates at our Recognition of Learning Ceremony, held at the James O'Keeffe Institute.

Bursaries The SICAP programme continues to make a positive impact across Duhallow, supporting individuals through the provision of small grants under the Adult and Second Chance measure. These supports have helped people build additional skills, develop confidence, and experience new educational opportunities. Under this initiative, IRD Duhallow can Gardening Course hosted by Ellie O’Donovan accept applications for bursaries IRD Duhallow’s Social Farming Co-Ordinator. intended to alleviate the financial burden associated with returning to education. Bursaries have supported individuals with costs such as course fees, making training more accessible for those who may otherwise be unable to pursue further learning. Grants are especially designed to support individuals who are unemployed, on low incomes, or making the significant decision to return to education after a period away. In 2025, through the SICAP Adult and Second Chance Education supports, three individuals were awarded bursaries. This funding enabled them to upskill in key areas, including nursing and specialised first aid training.

Members of the Western Duhallow Men’s Shed completing CPR/AED Training provided through SICAP funding with IRD Duhallow.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Rural Social Scheme The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) is an important initiative supporting lowincome farmers and rural communities across Ireland. The scheme provides participants with a supplementary income while also delivering valuable services that benefit local communities and organisations. RSS enables people to remain active within their own communities while balancing their farming commitments and maintaining their connection to rural life.

The Rural Dweller Pilot Scheme was one of the key recommendations arising from the national Review of the Rural Social Scheme, published in July 2024. IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh was a member of the review group that produced the report. The review outlined 19 recommendations aimed at strengthening the sustainability of the scheme while ensuring that RSS continues to provide income support, social inclusion and essential community services in rural Ireland.

Under the scheme, participants work 19.5 hours per week on communitybased projects and activities. The hours are structured around a farmerfriendly schedule, ensuring that individuals can continue to manage their farming activities alongside their RSS placement. In addition to the weekly payment, participants also receive a Class A PRSI contribution, helping to protect future social insurance entitlements such as pensions and benefits. The scheme also offers paid holidays, training opportunities and valuable work experience, making it an attractive option for people seeking additional income, social engagement, and skills development.

The RSS plays a vital role in rural Ireland, not only supporting participants financially but also helping community groups, sporting organisations, environmental projects, heritage centres and social care initiatives that rely heavily on the work carried out by RSS participants. Across the IRD Duhallow region, RSS participants contribute significantly to maintaining community facilities, supporting older people, enhancing villages and public spaces, and protecting local amenities.

Expanded Eligibility under RSS

Improvements to the Rural Social Scheme in 2026 In January 2026, the Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary, announced a number of significant improvements to the Rural Social Scheme arising from Budget 2026. These changes were introduced to strengthen the long-term sustainability of the RSS and to ensure that the scheme continues to support both participants and rural communities into the future.

Further recommendations from the review were also introduced in 2026, significantly broadening eligibility for the scheme. One important change was the introduction of the RSS “Defined Connection” provision. This allows people who are actively involved in farming, but who may not hold the herd number themselves, to access the scheme.

Catherine O’Donoghue, the first participant to join the Rural Dweller initiative under the RSS scheme pictured with Eileen Linehan, Maura Walsh, Billy Dennehy, Triona Dennehy and Marie Fleming.

A defined connection applies where an individual is actively farming and is either a family member of the herd number holder or a person who is substantially involved in the farming activity. Family members can include spouses, civil partners, parents, children, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, including in-laws. This change recognises the reality of modern family farming, where many people contribute significantly to farming enterprises without necessarily being named on the herd number.

In addition, the revised rules now allow couples who are jointly engaged in farming or fishing to both access the RSS using the same herd number.

Previously, only one individual linked to the herd number could participate in the scheme. This was a major barrier for many rural families.

Minister Dara Calleary pictured with participants of the RSS Scheme and staff of IRD Duhallow, who prepared the grounds and marquee for the official sod turning ceremony for the Rylane Community Centre Investment Fund project.

One of the most significant developments was the introduction of the Rural Dweller Pilot Scheme, which became operational from January 2026. This pilot scheme includes 250 ringfenced placements nationwide for people aged 50 years and over who are living in rural areas and receiving a qualifying weekly social welfare payment. The initiative aims to support older people in rural communities who may not have a direct farming background but who still wish to contribute to their local area while receiving additional income support.

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IRD Duhallow was allocated seven places under this pilot initiative. The scheme has generated strong local interest and provides another pathway for rural residents to become involved in community-focused work. Participants on the Rural Dweller Pilot can work across a variety of placements while remaining active and connected within their local communities.

RSS participant Nora Shine carrying out painting works in Rockchapel as part of ongoing community enhancement projects.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Rural Social Scheme The updated arrangement now allows spouses, civil partners or cohabitants aged 25 years or older, who are actively involved in farming or fishing and receiving a qualifying social welfare payment, to both participate.

most of the opportunities available through the scheme.

Eligibility also extends to the spouse, civil partner or cohabitant of a current RSS participant where they are in receipt of a qualified adult allowance. These changes are expected to make the scheme far more accessible and sustainable for farming families across rural Ireland.

RSS participant Neil Rahilly carrying out maintenance works at the facilities of Rockchapel GAA.

Thomas O’Driscoll and Jakub Nowacki undertaking improvement works on the ORIS walking trail in Shrone.

Opportunities through IRD Duhallow RSS IRD Duhallow offers a wide range of RSS work placements across the region. The organisation works closely with participants to match them with placements that suit their interests, skills and experience. RSS provides an excellent opportunity for people who may wish to return to employment, gain new skills, or become more socially connected within their communities.

Participants have access to a variety of meaningful and rewarding placements including maintaining and enhancing waymarked walking trails, bog roads and recreational amenities; energy conservation and environmental projects; village enhancement initiatives; community care supports; and caretaking roles within community and sporting facilities.

Additional opportunities include work within community gardens, cultural and heritage centres, community administration and clerical roles, and a number of IRD Duhallow social enterprise initiatives such as the Duhallow Community Laundry, Duhallow Furniture Revamp and Duhallow Community Food Services. These placements provide valuable practical experience while supporting services that are vital to local communities.

The RSS team in IRD Duhallow supports participants throughout the application process and during their placement. The team provides guidance, encouragement and assistance to help individuals make the

Antony Healy ensures the grounds of Macroom Golf Club are kept in top condition.

Mary Kelleher oversees the upkeep of green areas in Kilcorney.

RSS participant Neily Cronin carrying out strimming and maintenance works at Old Rathmore Graveyard.

RSS participant John Holmes helping to erect a marquee at James O’Keeffe Institute in preparation for community events and activities.

Retirement Acknowledgement In March 2026, IRD Duhallow said farewell to long-serving RSS participant William Walsh, who retired after many years of dedicated service. William joined the scheme in 2011 and made a significant contribution to the maintenance and development of walking routes and recreational trails throughout the Duhallow region. His work helped enhance local amenities for both residents and visitors alike.

IRD Duhallow would like to sincerely thank Willie for his dedication and commitment over the years and wish him every happiness and good health in his retirement.

William Nash.

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Tús IRD Duhallow’s Tús Community Work Placement Initiative is a labour market activation scheme providing 12-month, 19.5-hour weekly parttime placements for long-term unemployed individuals. It is managed

by IRD Duhallow on behalf of the Department of Social Protection. The schemes play a vital role in supporting individuals who are long-term unemployed whilst strengthening community services across the Duhallow region. A total of 70 participants have been actively engaged across a diverse range of placements during 2025/2026, including community centres, sports organisations, environmental projects, and care services. The variety of placement opportunities ensures that participants can access roles suited to their interests and abilities, while also addressing genuine community needs. IRD Duhallow has continued to prioritise high standards of programme management and participant support.

To qualify for Tús, a person must have been continuously unemployed for at least 12 months and ‘signing’ on a fulltime basis, and • In receipt of a Jobseekers payment for DSP for at least 12 months, and • Currently in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance You must also meet one of the following criteria: • Be currently receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance (JA) • Be 18 or over, fully unemployed and in receipt of Disability Allowance (there is no qualifying period, applications are by self-referral only) • Be 18 or over, with refugee status and getting Jobseeker’s Allowance payment (no qualifying period applies).

Tús supervisor Don Murphy shows the restoration work that was completed

by Tús participants to Minister Michael Healy Rae.

Rao Atig Ur Rehman and Happy Adamu work in DCFS.

Oleksandr Yemlieninov is a groundskeeper on the Newmarket Pitch and Putt Course.

Strengthening Skills, Confidence, and Career Readiness A key focus throughout this period has been enhancing the employability of participants.

Each individual receives an induction and a tailored development plan, identifying existing skills and areas for growth. Regular one-to-one meetings with supervisors have been instrumental in tracking progress and addressing any barriers to participation. Work experience can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have been out of work for an extended period, as it helps them .Maryna Koiesnychenko working in DCFS. develop and enhance their skills, build their confidence, and reacquaint themselves with a structured work environment. Participants have reported improved routine and a renewed sense of purpose as a result of their involvement in the programme.

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being done, as well as transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving. These include courses in manual handling, first aid, digital literacy, forklift, abrasive wheels, quad bike training, safe pass certification and customer service skills. Where possible, training is aligned with participants’ career goals, thereby increasing their chances of securing employment upon completion of the programme.

Participants are supported in accessing both accredited and nonaccredited training opportunities that can be directly applied to a variety of jobs. Courses offered include technical skills related to the specific work

As participants approach the end of their placement, IRD Duhallow provides guidance on next steps, including job search support, CV preparation, and interview skills. Links with local employers and training providers have been strengthened to facilitate smoother transitions into employment or further education. While outcomes vary, there have been several positive examples of participants moving into paid employment or enrolling in further training programmes.

Building Stronger Communities Through Tús Participation Community impact continues to be a defining strength of the programme. TÚS participants have contributed thousands of hours of service across the Duhallow region, supporting the maintenance and development of vital community infrastructure.

This has included the upkeep of walking trails, enhancement of recreational spaces, assistance in community childcare settings, and support for older persons living independently. Many host organisations have expressed Tús participant Olena Pershyna Akakh is their appreciation for the placed in Freemount Community Hall preparing for community events. reliability and dedication of

Participants erecting a marquee for a local community event through the Day of the Regions project.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Tús participants, noting that their contributions have enabled services to continue that might otherwise have been reduced or discontinued. In addition to practical contributions, the programme has fostered stronger community connections.

Participants often become more engaged in their local communities and develop a deeper sense of belonging. This social aspect is particularly important in rural Duhallow, where isolation can be a significant issue. By participating Nataliia Banakh works in in Tús, individuals are not only IRD Duhallow Furniture Revamp, where she maintains the showroom. gaining work experience but also rebuilding social networks and confidence in interacting within their own communities.

Addressing Barriers to Participation Challenges during this period have included transportation barriers for some participants, particularly those in more remote areas. Efforts have been made to address these issues through careful placement matching and, where possible, also encouraging informal solutions such as carpooling where feasible. Childcare commitments have also presented a notable challenge for some participants, particularly for those who cannot secure childcare places locally. The structured nature of TÚS placements, with set working hours, can be difficult to balance alongside school schedules, unexpected closures, or caring responsibilities for younger children. While some have been able to rely on informal support networks, such as family members, this is not always consistent or available. In response, IRD Duhallow has sought to accommodate participants where possible through flexible start times helping to reduce pressure and support continued participation in the programme.

Aimee O’Leary helping with the preparation of school meals for Duhallow Community Food Services.

Martin Virag in Freemount Community Hall.

Tús participant Noha Twomey mixing paint as part of the ReLove Paint circular economy initiative.

Testimonial ‘I started the Tús scheme in November last year and it has been a particularly enjoyable experience. I have been in a variety of jobs and met a lot of different people. The staff are always helpful, and I would recommend it to people. It is a fantastic way to get back out there, and I have done several training courses which are very helpful.’

John Ahern Dylan O’Flynn weeding in the polytunnel at IRD Duhallow’s Social Farm.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Duhallow Circular Economy Hub: Revamp and Relove Paint Since 2016, IRD Duhallow, with the vital support of the Community Services Programme, has operated the Duhallow Furniture REVAMP project. This social enterprise provides high-quality second-hand furniture and restoration services, ensuring that sustainable living remains accessible to everyone—particularly social welfare recipients, low-income households, carers and students.

Krzysztof Lichorobiec, Haitham Ikhtyer and Paddy Hassett showcasing the range of refurbishment services offered at Revamp.

Minister Dillon was introduced to our Relove paint project as part of his tour of the IRD Duhallow complex in November 2025. Also present were Ger Barry, Director of Services for Planning and Environment, Maura Walsh, IRD Duhallow, Ted O’Leary, Senior Executive Officer Cork County Council, Michelle Green, Environment awareness officer Cork County Council, Jessica Baron, Colm O’Connor and Caitriona McSweeney, IRD Duhallow.

REVAMP is more than a furniture shop; it is a community-driven initiative that promotes the circular economy while empowering individuals through skill development. Its success in the 2025–2026 period highlights its role as an essential part of the region’s social and environmental fabric.

In addition, in collaboration with Cork County Council and the Paint Reuse Network Ireland, the Relove Paint project has been in operation in Revamp since 2021. The project sees unused paints being diverted from local civic amenity sites to be remixed and sold in our Revamp shop in Newmarket.

Upskilling & Employment: Investing in People At REVAMP, the best thing to do with a skill is to pass it on. We provide an inclusive environment for participants of work activation schemes, including Tús, Community Employment (CE), and Rural Social Schemes (RSS).

Peer-to-Peer Mentorship: Staff and senior participants share their expertise in upholstery, woodwork, furniture repair and customer service, fostering a culture of confidence and capability.

Career Advancement: In the Our Relove paint is carefully assessed 2025–2026 period, three and remixed by Noah Twomey.

REVAMP participants were granted extended placements on the CE Scheme to further their education and skillsets.

Certification opportunities: Through our partnership with the Skillnet programme, participants access certified training to formalise their learnings.

A beautiful chaise longue, before and after being restored and reupholstered by Revamp’s team.

The Voice of Our Community “I just love my new hallway stand from IRD Revamp. I have had so many compliments about it and it’s my favourite piece of furniture in my house.

Thank you to the team!” Aileen.

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Comprehensive Furniture Services We have expanded our offerings to meet the diverse needs of our community, helping families preserve sentimental heirlooms and reduce household waste: Full Re-upholstery: From dining chairs to favourite armchairs, giving a new lease of life to tired fabrics.

Wood Restoration & Refinishing: Careful repairs for everything from modern furniture to family heirlooms.

Structural Couch Repairs: A high-value service involving spring fixing and cushion re-filling to keep bulky goods in use for years to come.

Looking Forward Duhallow Furniture REVAMP continues to serve as a model for how a local, community-based initiative can make a tangible difference. With strong foundations and continued support, we look forward to another year of meaningful service to the Duhallow region.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

IRD Duhallow Circular Cups Ireland’s First Reusable Cup Social Enterprise The Circular Cups for Community Events is a new initiative coordinated

by IRD Duhallow, designed to transition festivals and community gatherings away from single-use plastics toward a sustainable circular economy model, a first of its kind in Ireland.

• On-Site Usage: The service allows organizers to eliminate waste without requiring their own washing and/or storage facilities.

• Cleaning: After the events, soiled cups are collected and transported to our specialised washing facility in Newmarket, Co. Cork.

• Processing: Here, the service undertakes rigorous cleaning, high-heat drying, quality control inspections, and hygienic storage to ensure all stock meets health and safety standards for redistribution.

A vision for behavioural change The IRD Duhallow Circular Cups project is more than just a rental service; it is a vehicle for cultural change. By integrating these cups into the fabric of Irish social life—from GAA tournaments to arts festivals—we are educating the public on the tangible benefits of the circular economy.

Minister Alan Dillon with Cllr Mark Fitzgerald Leas Chathaoirleach Tipperary County Council, Cllr Ian Doyle, Cllr Kate Lynch, Anne Maria Bourke IRD Duhallow, Ger Barry, Director of Services for Planning and Environment, Maura Walsh, IRD Duhallow, John Paul O’Shea TD, Philippa King, Regional Waste Co-ordinator, Southern Waste Region officially cut the ribbon on the Circular Cups project.

In 2021, Ireland generated over 1.2 million tonnes of packaging waste, with an estimated 200 million single-use plastic cups consumed annually.

The Circular Cups for community events provide specially designed and branded reusable coffee cups, pints and half-pints that can be washed up to 300 times, promoting circularity and helping to reduce single-use plastic waste.

In collaboration with the Southern Region Waste Management Planning Office and with grant-aid from the Anti-Dumping Initiative, the project was launched in November 2025, by Mr. Alan Dillon TD, Minister of State for Small Business & Retail and Circular Economy. What began as a localised pilot has now been rolled out across the entire Southern Region, encompassing Carlow, Clare, Cork City & County, Kerry, Kilkenny, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford. This expansion is made possible through dedicated partnerships with the ten local authorities, ensuring that sustainability is accessible to every parish and town in the Southern region.

Service overview The service manages a comprehensive inventory of reusable cups, designed specifically for ease of access and logistical efficiency: • Booking & Logistics: Organisers place orders via a dedicated online portal. IRD Duhallow manages the logistics, delivering sanitised stock in specialised crates directly to event venues.

Maura Walsh, Jessica Baron, Caitriona McSweeney and Colm O’Connor of IRD Duhallow with Carol Sweetnam and Pauline McDonogh of the Southern Waste Region Management Office (SWRMO) in the new Circular Cups for Community Events facility.

A display of the branded Circular Cups, available in Hot beverage cups with lids, pints or half-pints.

The initiative has seen strong initial uptake, with over 37,000 cups having been hired so far since the launch of our project, proving that Irish communities are ready to embrace a more sustainable way of gathering.

As we look toward the future, we remain committed to expanding our reach, reducing plastic pollution, and ensuring that our community legacy is one of environmental stewardship rather than waste.

The perfect sustainable alternative for service beverages at community events, each Circular Cup can be used up to 300 times.

The Circular Cups in action at the Dingle Food Festival, Co Kerry, October 2025.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Duhallow Community Laundry Duhallow Community Laundry is one of IRD Duhallow’s established social enterprises that was established in response to issues raised by both the IRD Duhallow Carers Network and our SAOI Network both highlighting the need for a service for our elderly, low-income households and carers in the Duhallow region.

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.

We would like to express our gratitude to Róisín Liston the AT+ Coordinator who was always on hand to assist and guide us and to Lorraine Curtin who was our assigned Business Coach who through the process was very supportive and informative.

Social Economy and staffing IRD Duhallow’ Social Economy Working Group continues to support the work of this service under the stewardship of its Chairperson Mary Wallace.

Duhallow Community Laundry Supervisor Anita Castle with colleagues Monica Gilmore and Maggie O’Callaghan reviewing orders.

This service helps to lessen the pressure on people and guarantees a fresh supply of clean linen, towels and clothes regardless of the weather. This service is primarily aimed at the elderly, lone parents, carers, Family Income Supplement, unemployed, disability, farm assist and Tús/RSS/CE scheme workers.

Community Services Programme The Community Services Programme (CSP) is administered by Pobal on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. The CSP supports community-based organisations such as Duhallow Community Laundry to deliver local social, economic and environmental services through a social enterprise model, with a focus on communities where services are limited due to geographic or social isolation, or where demand deficits exist. The Programme aims to tackle disadvantage by providing a co-funding contribution towards direct salary cost which increased in January 2026, we welcomed this news that was announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD.

Supervisor Anita Castle oversees all aspects of the community laundry service for IRD Duhallow and ensures that the service meets the needs of the customers.

The team in the laundry is led by Anita Castle who ably supervises a team which consists of participants from the schemes operated by IRD Duhallow including Tús, Rural Social Scheme and the Community Employment Scheme. The laundry provides a great work placement opportunity for any person seeking to return to the jobs market developing skills such as customer care, administration and being part of a team who are committed to delivering a high-quality service.

The laundry team: Anita Castle, Joan Sheehan, Tetiana Huzar, Christine Begley, Liubov Hutnzk, Natalia Polianska.

Michael Healy-Rae, T.D. enjoying his tour of the laundry during a recent visit to IRD Duhallow.

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AT+ programme Duhallow Community Laundry is now an alumnus of the AT+ programme being one of a number of community services programmes who participated in the inaugural year which concluded earlier this year. This programme helps organisations to develop their enterprise and are supported to adapt and improve what they do so they can stay relevant, sustainable and generate enough income to support their social goals.

This programme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the

Another satisfied customer Gerry O’Keeffe being assisted by laundry staff member Christine Begley.

“I have been a very satisfied customer of IRD Duhallow’s Community Laundry Service for many years.

It’s a great service and I cannot speak too highly of the reliable, friendly and professional service provided by their staff” Michael O’ Halloran Newmarket

Tadhg Curtin assists with laundry deliveries to customers including Michael O’Halloran.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Warmer Homes Initiative Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme (BEWHS) Since its establishment in 2006, the Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme (BEWHS), delivered by IRD Duhallow, has insulated more than 5,190 homes across Cork City and County, South Limerick, and County Kerry.

The scheme continues to play a significant role in improving energy efficiency, reducing fuel poverty, and enhancing comfort for households throughout the region.

practice across all operational areas.

Training undertaken during the year included: • Manual Handling • Working at Heights • Abrasive Wheel Training • Mobile Tower Scaffold Training • Installer Insulation Training • Safe Pass Certification

Warmer Homes Installers Oleksander Tkachenko, Donnacha Ryan, Tom Cambridge, Richard Sullivan, Trevor Kelleher and Andrii Tsybka.

The cavity wall insulation team also completed specialist surveying and installation training with Envirobead Insulation and holds certification from the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) for the delivery of cavity wall insulation works.

Donnacha Ryan installing attic insulation.

Andrii Tsybka drilling wall prior to installing cavity wall insulation.

Works completed by IRD Duhallow installation teams include attic insulation, cavity wall insulation, roof and wall ventilation. The scheme is funded by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and Pobal through the Community Services Programme (CSP).

Better Energy Homes (BEH) During 2025, IRD Duhallow completed insulation works on 51 homes under the Better Energy Homes (BEH) Scheme.

Aerial view of our cavity wall crew at a job recently.

In January 2026, SEAI announced increased grant supports for attic and cavity wall insulation works. Under the revised grant structure, supports for detached houses increased from €3,200 to €3,800, alongside an additional €50 contribution towards a Building Energy Rating (BER) assessment.

Further enhancements were introduced in March 2026 for households in receipt of specified social protection payments. Under this enhanced support scheme, grants are now available up to: • €4,800 for detached houses • €3,600 for semi-detached houses • €2,900 for mid-terrace houses In addition, an increased BER grant of €280 is available for qualifying applicants.

Energy Audits and Solar PV Through collaboration with IRD Duhallow and SE Systems, free energy audits are available to businesses and community centres with annual energy expenditure exceeding €10,000. These audits identify practical energy-saving opportunities aimed at reducing operational costs and improving sustainability.

IRD Duhallow also offers free household surveys to assess suitability for Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) installations. SEAI grants of up to €1,800 are currently available to support Solar PV installations for eligible householders.

Continuous Training and Quality Assurance Continuous professional development and quality assurance remain central to the delivery of IRD Duhallow’s energy services. Staff training programmes ensure compliance with industry standards and best

Quality assurance across all SEAI-funded schemes continues to be overseen by KSN. Local Employment and Community Impact The Warmer Homes Scheme continues to provide valuable local employment opportunities through the Community Services Programme (CSP). Funding currently supports the employment of a coordinator and five Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) positions across administration, attic and cavity wall Richard Sullivan starting up insulation teams, ventilation services, the compressor used to deliver surveying and quality control. cavity wall insulation.

In 2026, Pobal increased funding support for CSP-supported organisations. As part of this increase, IRD Duhallow received an additional €1,160 per FTE, bringing the annual support rate to €26,090 per FTE. The scheme is further strengthened through the support of labour activation initiatives including the Rural Social Scheme (RSS), Community Employment (CE), and Tús programmes. Participants from these schemes contribute significantly to the delivery of insulation works across the region.

Achieve Together+ Social Innovation Coaching and Mentoring Programme (AT+) In 2025, Pobal introduced the Achieve Together+ (AT+) Social Innovation Coaching and Mentoring Programme to support Community Services Programme-funded organisations in enhancing performance, sustainability, and long-term impact.

IRD Duhallow’s Community Laundry, Revamp, and Warmer Homes Scheme services participated in the programme, engaging with expert mentors and coaches to identify opportunities for innovation, growth, and service development. Participation in the programme was successfully completed in 2026.

Remembering our Colleague We were deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our colleague Noel Heffernan, earlier this year. Noel worked across various services within IRD Duhallow for more than 10 years. His dedication, commitment, and kindness left a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of working alongside him. Noel is greatly missed by colleagues and friends alike. We extend our sincere sympathies to his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Our colleague, Noel Heffernan R.I.P.

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- the spirit of rural ireland.

Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) Manager Linda O’Connor, Manager of Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS), continues to guide the organisation through a period of sustained growth, development, and service enhancement. Appointed in 2021, she has been central to strengthening operational standards and ensuring the organisation remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community. She holds qualifications in Culinary Arts, Professional Cookery, and Supervisory Management, and brings almost 20 years of professional experience across the public, private, and healthcare catering sectors.

Guild. These accolades reflect the organisation’s commitment to excellence in social enterprise, food quality, and community impact. Our core strength is a commitment to supporting our local economy.

Wherever possible, local sourcing is prioritised, working closely with farmers, producers, butchers, and suppliers. This ensures the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients while directly supporting local businesses and sustaining employment within the region. Income generated through services is consistently reinvested back into the community, ensuring long-term sustainability and continued community benefit. This model ensures that DCFS not only delivers essential food services but also makes a strong and measurable contribution to the social and economic wellbeing of the Duhallow region.

Duhallow Community Food Services Team.

Rural Meals Service

Linda O’Connor, Manager of Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS), pictured with a selection of awards won by the organisation in 2025, recognising DCFS’s outstanding contribution to community food services, school meals, and rural meal delivery across Cork.

About Us Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) was established in 1994 in Boherbue with just eight Meals on Wheels customers. Over the past 32 years, the organisation has developed into a nationally recognised, awardwinning social enterprise delivering a wide range of essential community food services across the Duhallow region, employing over 70 staff in Newmarket. A major milestone in its development was the relocation in 2014 to a purpose-built facility at the James O’Keeffe Institute in Newmarket, which enabled significant expansion in service capacity, operational efficiency, and community reach. Today, DCFS delivers in excess of 800,000 meals annually across all services, including Meals on Wheels, school meals, childcare catering, community dining, bakery production, and outside catering services. The organisation has received significant national recognition for its work, including being named Winner of the Community Category at the National Social Enterprise Awards 2025, a Finalist in the National Lottery Good Causes Awards 2025, and a Winner of the Community Food Award from the Irish Food Writers’

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Manager Linda O’Connor pictured with members of the DCFS management team, Hilary Boyle, Olive Casey, Joanne O’Connor and Antoinette Le Roux who oversee the organisation’s expanding school meals, catering and community food services across the Duhallow region.

Francesca Hendry loading for a Meals on Wheels delivery.

Meals on Wheels remains the cornerstone service of DCFS and continues to provide an essential lifeline to older and vulnerable individuals across the region.

During 2025, over 41,000 freshly prepared meals were delivered to elderly and vulnerable members of the community, supporting independent living and helping to reduce social isolation, particularly in rural and isolated areas.

Beyond nutrition, this service provides daily human contact, reassurance, and connection, which is especially important for individuals living alone. It plays a vital role in supporting wellbeing and enabling people to remain in their own homes for longer. All meals are freshly prepared on-site daily by a team of experienced Kevin Mc Auliffe preparing for his and highly skilled chefs, ensuring Meals on Wheels deliveries. consistently high standards of quality, taste, and nutrition. Nutritional value is central to menu planning, with carefully balanced meals designed to support health and wellbeing across all age groups. Sauces and dishes are enriched with hidden vegetables, supporting improved nutrition for younger and more selective eaters while maintaining familiar flavours and appeal. This approach ensures that all meals are both nutritious and enjoyable, encouraging healthy eating habits and supporting overall wellbeing.

The DCFS team with the fleet of Meals on Wheels vehicles. We support older people across our region with freshly prepared meals and daily essential services.

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Duhallow Community Food Services (DCFS) Other Services

remain fundamental to the organisation’s continued success and reputation.

DCFS provides a Primary School Meals service to several local schools.

Our school meals are prepared each morning on site and delivered hot to students.

In addition to Meals on Wheels, DCFS delivers a wide range of food and catering services that support education, childcare, and community life across the region. Through the Hot School Meals Programme, 30 primary schools in the local area now receive freshly prepared hot meals delivered daily. This service plays a key role in supporting children’s growth, development, concentration, and overall wellbeing by ensuring access to a nutritious and balanced meal each school day. Catering services are also provided to secondary schools, childcare facilities, and community organisations, ensuring consistent access to high-quality, nutritionally balanced meals across all age groups. The Community Restaurant in Newmarket continues to serve as an important social hub, providing a welcoming environment that supports social interaction and community engagement. The in-house bakery and outside catering services further enhance service delivery and sustainability, supporting a wide range of events including family celebrations, funerals, corporate functions, and community gatherings. Across all services, there is a strong and ongoing commitment to supporting local producers and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers within the region.

Bakers Olha Homon and Maryna Pavlova preparing desserts for a function.

Governance The organisation is governed by a voluntary Board of 15 members who provide strategic leadership, oversight, and governance. The Board meets regularly to ensure DCFS operates in a transparent, accountable, and financially responsible manner, while maintaining a strong focus on community need and service quality. Effective governance has been central to the organisation’s long-term sustainability and growth, supporting its development from a small local initiative into a major community food enterprise. The Board continues to ensure that all decisions align with the organisation’s core values of community service, social responsibility, and local economic contribution.

As Duhallow Community Food Services marks 32 years in operation during 2026, the organisation reflects with pride on its journey from a small rural initiative in Boherbue to a nationally recognised awardwinning social enterprise. While the organisation has grown significantly, its core mission remains unchanged: to provide nutritious meals, support independent living, reduce social isolation, and enhance community wellbeing across the Duhallow region. With the continued dedication of staff, volunteers, board members, programme participants, and community partners, DCFS remains committed to building on its strong foundations and continuing to serve the community into the future.

Kitchen team preparing for a busy service.

Staffing DCFS continues to be a significant local employer, providing meaningful employment, training, and work experience opportunities within the community. Staff are engaged across all areas of operation, including food preparation, baking, logistics, delivery, customer service, and front-ofhouse services. Employment and training opportunities are supported through key programmes including the Community Services Programme (CSP), Rural Social Scheme, Tús, and Community Employment (CE) Schemes. These initiatives are central to promoting social inclusion, skills development, and pathways to employment. A strong team culture is maintained throughout the organisation, with a shared commitment to delivering freshly prepared, high-quality meals using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. The dedication and professionalism of staff

Linda O'Connor and Maura Walsh at the Irish Food Writers Guild Awards Ceremony.

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Large Scale Capital Projects 2026 Duhallow Rural Development, Education and Training Centre The James O Keeffe Complex is home to Local Development Company IRD Duhallow and Social Enterprise Duhallow Community Food Services.

Over the years, the complex has been developed into a busy rural development hub. The complex is the biggest employer in Newmarket with 100 employees and 40 scheme participants based here.

The James O'Keeffe Memorial Mayor of County of Cork, Bernard Moynihan, with Foundation is currently in the Minister Michael Moynihan on a recent visit to the process of submitting a James O'Keeffe Complex with CEO Maura Walsh and Assistant CEO Eileen Linehan. planning application to Cork County Council for permission for modifications to our existing Community Food Services Building, operated by IRD Duhallow Community Food Services, here in Newmarket.

This new facility, the Duhallow Rural Development, Education & Training Centre will allow IRD Duhallow to build upon the hard work completed over the last 35 years and allow us to continue to meet the needs of the wider Duhallow region under our four key strategic development pillars: economic, community, cultural, and environmental.

The proposed extension will mark a significant and transformative expansion of the existing services provided by IRD Duhallow and will provide an overall masterplan for the future development of DCFS to allow for increased food preparation and productivity along with the development of the Duhallow Rural Development, Education & Training Centre, which will be able to facilitate local thematic events of an enterprise, environment, educational or community nature that are relative to the work of the IRD Duhallow and James O'Keeffe Memorial Foundation and will put Newmarket on the map as a regional training location.

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The types of events envisaged to be held in the new Duhallow Rural Development, Education & Training Centre are ones which will benefit the entire community of the Duhallow region and promote rural development including: • Training / Workshops • Seminars /Conferences • Graduation Ceremonies • Demonstrations/exhibitions/Skillnet QQI Major Award lectures • Awards ie. Enterprise Awards/Business Breakfast briefings • Cultural events ie. the Duhallow Bealtaine events during May / International Women’s Day events / Events focused on the integration of migrants and new arrivals.

• Events ancillary to the business of Duhallow Community Food Services • Events targeted at the community’s

area of interest such as the elderly, active retired groups, community mental health programmes, environment, women, enterprise, youth, agriculture, environment, beekeepers, horticulture, biodiversity, Tús, Rural Social Scheme, Community Employment, disabilities, unemployed and underemployed in the wider Duhallow communities.

The proposed development will result in the following as part of the expansion of the existing DCFS building and part of a long-term strategic masterplan: • Construction of the Duhallow Rural Development, Education & Training Centre to cater for the hosting of various events organised and promoted by IRD Duhallow • Expansion of food preparation and production areas and working stations to service the new centre • Expansion of existing restaurant/café to accommodate increased number of learners • Provision of additional staff facilities including changing areas and staff canteen to cater for the increased level of staff in recent years • Provision of increased food storage spaces as well as office/admin spaces to support the day-to-day operations and centralise administration function • Provision of a looped access delivery and dispatch road to allow vehicles to manoeuvre around the site safely.

• A revised car park layout and bicycle spaces.

The proposed development will generate employment in the area and will allow the overall James O’Keeffe Memorial Complex to continue to expand in a sustainable manner to meet the current needs of the services provided on site. DCFS currently employs over 70 people with 20 scheme participants and 50 employees directly employed. Through this expansion further upskilling opportunities in the food and hospitality sector will be generated, supporting pathways into work for those who are facing barriers such as long term unemployed, migrants or workforce returners. Furthermore, the project is intended to benefit the wider community and will not be utilised for leisure activities to compete with other businesses in Newmarket or Kanturk.

This development is in keeping with the James O’Keeffe Memorial Foundation’s ethos of advancing the complex to meet the needs of the rural and agricultural population and will prove to be an essential community asset for years to come and will promote the moto of the JOK “Progress Through Learning”. The James O’Keeffe Memorial Foundation and DCFS have come together with us to deliver this multimillion Euro project that has the potential to regenerate the town of Newmarket and provide essential services to the entire Southwest region, not least an appropriate training and education facility to the standard of facilities provided in other third level institutions.

C OMMUNITY G ROUPS IN D UHALLOW

IRD DUHALLOW | PROGRESS REPORT 2025-2026

Western Duhallow Communities Ballinahulla Ballydaly Ballydesmond Boherbue Cullen Foil Glash Gneeveguilla Kiskeam Knockaclarig Knocknaboul Knocknagree Meelin Rathmore Rockchapel Shrone Taur Tureencahill

IRD Duhallow Representatives Liam Doody and Annette O'Keeffe Richie O'Connor and John O'Connor Siobhan Moynihan and Aine Rohan Margaret Murphy and Marie Casey Derry Morley and Lorraine Singleton Philomena Cremin and Geraldine Cremin Mossie Fitzpatrick and Timothy Collins Cormac Collins and Yvonne Crean PJ O'Leary and David Curtin June Walsh and Eda O'Connor Maureen Fleming and Brin McDonnell Noreen McSweeney and Mairead O'Sullivan Nora Shine and Denis McAuliffe Michaela Donegan and Marie O'Leary Mike Allen and Breeda O'Callaghan Conor Creedon and Kieran Cahill Batt O'Callaghan and Jeremiah Murphy Marie Fleming and Jackie Hickey

North Eastern Duhallow Communities Tullylease Freemount Castlemagner Dromagh Kanturk Kilbrin Lismire Newmarket

IRD Duhallow Representatives Liam O'Gorman and Maureen Daly PJ O'Sullivan, Mike O'Regan and Michelle Green Thomas Linehan and Hazel Bourke Richie Cullinane and Josie Leonard Eddie Walsh and Tina Dunsten Tom O'Riordan and Paulina Breen Martina Aherne and Marie Arnold Dan O'Riordan and Sharleen O'Keeffe

South Eastern Aubane Banteer Bweeng Derrinagree Donoughmore & Stuake Firmount / New Tipperary Kilcorney Laharn Lyre Millstreet Nadd Rathcoole

IRD Duhallow Representatives John Kelleher and Noreen Kelleher Denis Withers and John Kirwan Jeanette O'Connell and Sean Kelly Judy O'Leary and Andrias O'Sullivan Marie Wallace and Monica Kennedy Claire Hartnett and Peter Cafferkey Seamus Curtin and Dan Burke Eileen Forde and Sheila Crowley Billy Murphy and Alan Philpott Sinead Corkery and Denis Hickey Mary Leahy and Paudie O'Shea Dylan Condon and Kate Dennehy

Mid Cork Carriganima Clondrohig Inchigeela / Kilbarry Macroom Aghabullogue Rylane Ballinagree Bealnamorrive Rusheen

IRD Duhallow Representatives Martin McSweeney and Cait Ring William O'Riordan and Alan O'Riordan Tim Maher and Mary McSweeney Declan Sheehan and Lisa Manning Tim Murphy and Jonathan O'Connell Martina Casey and John Crowley Shane Lehane and Aongue MacSuibhne Don McCarthy and Denis McCarthy Gerald Coakley and 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