The Public Participation Networks around Ireland are doing an outstanding service providing a central co-ordination point for thousands of community groups and sporting organisations.
The Public Participation Network (PPN) is the go-to place for all local authorities who wish to benefit from community and voluntary expertise in their area.
The PPNs also work very closely with my department, the Department for Rural and Community Development.
Our own local network, Galway County PPN, coordinates with scores of community groups and sporting bodies all over the county.
The PPNs have developed significantly in the six years since they were first set up to provide invaluable support for local communities.
Their role is acutely evident now as part of the Community Response to the COVID-19 virus.
Community groups register to join the PPN in their local authority area.
The three main community group areas:
Voluntary groups working in our communities, like sports clubs, cultural societies, Meals on Wheels or Tidy Towns.
Local organisations formed to protect the environment, such as An Taisce and Birdwatch Ireland.
Groups representing people who are socially excluded and whose voices need to be heard such as people with disabilities, migrants or travellers.
To contact Galway County PPN call 091-509321 or email [email protected]