A joint showcase of the Community Development Programme (CDP) and the Empowering Community Programme (ECP) in Athlone on September 23 highlighted the impressive work that is being carried out on the ground in communities around Ireland.
More than 100 project workers, and members of local community development committees (LCDCs) and local development companies gathered to learn about the work being undertaken through both the ECP and the CDP by marginalised communities.
The event provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of sharing ideas and working together to find solutions that address social exclusion and poverty. The programmes have given a voice to communities, such as through Traveller-led projects in Clare, Kilkenny and Limerick. It has returned pride to estates in Athy and Coolock where locals are taking over responsibility for the upkeep of their areas.
• Kilkenny Traveller CDP have held many events within the community. Our thanks to KTCDP for the many spectacular photos showcasing their work.
While some groups have embarked on strategic planning for the years ahead, funding has been on an annual basis and they are considered pilot projects. To pull them now however would greatly undermine local trust. There was encouragement however for all present when officials rounded off the day by saying the projects had more than proven they were delivering value for money.
• ABOVE AND BELOW – Minister of State Joe O’Brien launching the CDP programme in 2021 in Longford. Photos by A. Meagher.
Minister of State for Community Development, Integration and Charities, Joe O’Brien spoke at the event and in a follow-up press release from the Department of Rural and Community Development he said: “The collaborative effort will help continue to drive the positive changes these programmes are delivering for individuals and communities across Ireland.
• Yvonne Quilligan, Cork City Partnership, speaking at the Showcase about the Empowering Communities Programme’s impact in Knocknaheeny, Cork. Photo by A. Meagher.
“The value of having so many stakeholders in the room truly cannot be understated, as we engage and work together and support communities.
“True community development must always be about allowing communities to decide what is best for them, and both these programmes will ensure the voices of the people are central to decision-making.”
The Empowering Communities Programme (ECP) aims to enhance community access to key services, and empower local communities to craft their own response to area-based poverty, social exclusion and the resulting consequences, with the support of the relevant LCDC.
The CDP aims to trial community-led interventions that address poverty, social exclusion and inequality and promote human rights.
The programme was launched in March 2021 with seven projects, and it is expected that it will continue for three years. It has since been expanded to include a further three projects.
• Angel Marroquin, community worker, Cultúr Migrants Centre, Brian Hora, Meath County Council, Karen Hughes, ECP worker with Dublin City Community Co-op and Sarah McManus, ECP worker with DNWAP. Photo by A. Meagher.
Full press release with background information on both programmes available here: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/29295-minister-joe-obrien-hosts-national-showcase-event-for-targeted-community-work/
Allen Meagher’s report from the event detailing participant views, optimism, concerns, challenges and observations will follow.
