Roscommon Welcomed Delegates From Across Ireland for Two Days of Collaboration, Learning and Community Leadership.

The National Public Participation Network (PPN) Conference 2026 concluded on Friday, 25 September following two highly successful days of discussion, learning, networking and collaboration at the Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone, hosted by Roscommon Public Participation Network. The event brought together representatives from every PPN in Ireland, alongside community leaders, local authority staff, policymakers and stakeholders from across the community and voluntary sector.

Held under the theme "Empowering Communities Through Connection, Collaboration and Cohesion" the conference provided a national platform for sharing ideas, showcasing best practice and exploring how communities can continue to play a central role in shaping local and national decision-making. The conference was officially opened by Niall Croghan, Chairperson of the Roscommon PPN Secretariat, who welcomed delegates to County Roscommon and highlighted the importance of ensuring that communities have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their lives. Over the two-day event, delegates heard from an impressive range of speakers whose presentations focused on participation, resilience, community leadership and social inclusion. Louise Weir of the University of Galway highlighted the important role Public Participation Networks play in connecting communities with decision-making. Her research demonstrated how policies developed at European and national level are ultimately delivered through community participation and local action, with PPNs providing a vital link between policymakers and communities across Ireland. Paralympian cyclist and entrepreneur Richael Timothy inspired delegates with her remarkable story of resilience and determination following a life-changing acquired brain injury, delivering a powerful message of inclusion, perseverance and overcoming adversity that resonated strongly with attendees.

The second day featured an address by Séamus Boland, President of the European Economic and Social Committee, who spoke about the importance of participation, active citizenship and community engagement. Delegates also heard from County Roscommon native Fergal Guihen, whose extraordinary 30,000-kilometre cycling journey across 28 countries delivered a powerful message on courage, resilience and mental wellbeing. Through an engaging and uplifting account of his experiences, he encouraged delegates to embrace new opportunities, step beyond their comfort zones and recognise that some of life's greatest experiences, friendships and achievements can come from having the courage to take the first step, embrace the unknown and simply ask, "Why not?"

The conference also provided delegates with an opportunity to learn from one another through workshops and discussions on a range of topics, including climate action, accessibility, inclusion, community resilience and local development. Participants shared experiences, practical ideas and examples of successful community initiatives from across Ireland.

A series of site visits and excursions across County Roscommon highlighted the county's heritage, biodiversity, tourism attractions and community-led initiatives. The visits offered a valuable opportunity to experience first-

hand the strong community spirit and volunteerism that are central to communities throughout the county. Attendees were also given an opportunity to experience Roscommon's rich cultural heritage through music, storytelling and local traditions, showcasing the talent, creativity and community spirit that exists throughout the county.

Speaking at the conclusion of the conference, Niall Croghan expressed his sincere appreciation to Roscommon County Council, and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for bringing the event to fruition. He paid particular tribute to Paul Clabby, Roscommon PPN Resource Worker, and Jody Moylan, Support Worker, whose months of planning, organisation and dedication were central to the success of the conference. Special recognition was also given to Vincent Moran, who recently completed nine years of dedicated service on the PPN, in acknowledgement of his significant contribution to community participation and development in County Roscommon. Mr Croghan also recognised the invaluable support, guidance and commitment of the Roscommon PPN Secretariat, whose contribution was instrumental in making the conference such a success, and praised conference MC Una Ní Chúinn for her outstanding professionalism, warmth and energy in guiding proceedings throughout the two-day event, while expressing thanks to the management and staff of the Hodson Bay Hotel for their hospitality and support.

Reflecting on the success of the conference, Niall Croghan said:

"It has been a real privilege for Roscommon PPN to host the National PPN Conference and to welcome representatives from across Ireland to our county. We wanted to create more than just a conference. We wanted to provide an opportunity for people to connect, share experiences, learn from one another and return to their communities with renewed enthusiasm and practical ideas. Over the past two days, we have heard inspiring stories, shared valuable knowledge and explored the challenges and opportunities facing communities throughout Ireland. What has come through very clearly is that, regardless of where we live, our communities share many of the same aspirations. People want to be listened to, supported and given the opportunity to contribute to the places they call home. The success of this conference is a reflection of what can be achieved through partnership and collective effort. I want to sincerely thank everyone who contributed to making it such a memorable occasion, particularly our speakers, volunteers, our PPN team, and delegates. I hope that everyone who attended leaves Roscommon with new connections, fresh ideas and renewed energy for the important work taking place in communities throughout Ireland.And if you didn’t get enough time to see Roscommon, well you’ll just have to come back and visit us again”

The conference concluded with a strong call for continued collaboration between Public Participation Networks, local authorities, Government departments and community organisations, reaffirming the importance of community participation in building stronger, more connected and inclusive communities throughout Ireland.

For Roscommon PPN, hosting the national event represented a significant opportunity to showcase the county's community spirit, partnership approach, heritage and renowned hospitality. The conference also strengthened relationships between PPNs nationwide while creating new opportunities for future collaboration and shared learning. The success of the National PPN Conference 2026 leaves a lasting legacy not only for Roscommon but also for community organisations throughout Ireland, demonstrating the positive impact that can be achieved when communities are empowered, connected and given a voice in shaping their future.