Celebrating the value of public participation
THE MEMBERS of Wexford’s Public Participation Network gathered at the Irish National Heritage Park to unveil their 2017 annual report, which was launched by Tom Dempsey.
Wexford PPN is a network of community and voluntary organisations with 341 members across the county.
Almost 80 people attended the event including Mayor of Wexford, Tony Dempsey, TD James Browne, councillors Jim Moore, George Lawlor, Willie Kavanagh and Mary Farrell, Wexford County Council officials, and representatives from Wexford Local Development.
Cllr Dempsey briefly addressed the attendance, highlighting the importance of inclusion of the community and voluntary voice in local decision making. He complimented the PPN on its annual report and the depth of work completed in 2017, wishing them well for the future.
Former All Ireland winner Tom Dempsey spoke of the importance of community and the impact his community had on him both in sport and other areas of his life. He congratulated all those involved in the PPN, complimenting the work they had done. He acknowledged the importance of them having a seat and voice at the decision-making table.
He said: ‘ The PPN is a huge opportunity, we should make sure to take it.’
Brian Toomey, PPN representative to the Local Community Development and a member of Bunclody Active Retirement, provided musical entertainment at the event. In his set, he encouraged audience participation and many members joined in, showing their musical sides.
Wexford PPN was also de- lighted to have members from the musical group Inner Harmony perform.
Speaking about the performance, Paula Lowney of Wexford Mental Health Association said: ‘ To me, this performance highlights the real benefit of the information bulletins from Wexford PPN. This group came about as part of the Artist in the Community scheme.
‘We heard about this scheme from the Wexford PPN information bulletin and as a result here are our group performing songs they have composed themselves’.
The evening offered the opportunity to relax, celebrate and to make new acquaintances.
PPN Representative, Dan Kennedy of Coolgreany Community Alert summed up the event saying:
‘ This evening shows that the PPN is a diverse, inclusive, participatory, and independent organisation, and that it is of relevance to community and voluntary organisations all across Wexford. I would encourage all community and voluntary groups to get involved as there are a lot of benefits to be gained.’
For more on Wexford PPN check out www.wexfordppn.ie.