Community activists from across Clare will gather in Ennis on Saturday 11th October for ‘Rural Rejigs’, a day of celebration, discussion, networking, guest speakers, live music, dance and free food.
The free event, to which all are welcome, will be a 10th birthday celebration for Clare Public Participation Network (PPN), a network of over 450 community groups from every corner of the Banner County.
Attendees will hear stories of inspiring grassroots projects and will ask: How can we all work together to create a future of thriving communities across Clare?
Mary O’Donoghue of Clare PPN said: “This will be a big thank you to the scores of community activists who have freely given their time, energy and skills over the past 10 years to represent the voice of community groups at local government.”
“Clare PPN is not one group, it is hundreds. Join us in celebrating 10 years of Clare PPN -– and tell us what you want from your PPN in the next 10 years.”
“Nothing about us, without us,” said Damon Matthew Wise Âû of Clare PPN. “For 10 years the PPN has ensured that grassroots groups have an equal say at committees of Clare County Council and other policy-making bodies.”
A panel on ‘Communities doing it for themselves’ will feature inspiring stories from community co-ops and social enterprises.
Live entertainment will feature traditional Irish and international Clare-based artists Brian Fleming, Floriane Blanche and Quentin Cooper, while Seán Nós dancer Louise O’Connor and Mohamed Alloh will lead a Céilí and Palestinian Dabke dance.
Rural Rejigs take place from 10am to 5pm at the Maria Assumpta Hall, Station Road, Ennis and will include free lunch, tea, coffee and birthday cake.
Admission is free but registration is essential to secure your place. Book your free ticket here.
The booking link is also available via the Clare PPN homepage.
Clare PPN is an independent network of more than 450 not-for-profit organisations throughout the county. Its mission is to ensure community groups have the opportunity to bring their expertise and opinions to bear on the County Council’s policies, plans and activities. The PPN also offers training and other supports to member groups, and opportunities for groups to collaborate and network.