Connection, Collaboration, Cohesion

In September 2026, Roscommon Public Participation Network proudly hosted the National PPN Conference at the Hodson Bay Hotel, bringing together representatives from every Public Participation Network 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 valuable opportunity for learning, networking and the exchange of ideas. Over two days, delegates explored the role of community participation in shaping local and national decision-making, while sharing experiences and examples of effective community engagement from across the country.

Niall Croghan, Chairperson of Roscommon PPN, making a presentation to Minister of State Jerry Buttimer the National PPN Conference at Hodson Bay. Pictured (L-R) John Mulvihill, Margaret Mulligan, Majella Dodd, Ger Fallon, Vincent Moran (Roscommon PPN Secretariat Members) Jerry Buttimer, Niall Croghan, Jody Moylan (Roscommon PPN Unit/Roscommon County Council) & Paul Clabby (Roscommon PPN Resource Worker/Roscommon County Council). Minister Buttimer also presented outgoing secretariat member and former Chair Vincent Moran (with framed picture) with a gift to mark his long and dedicated service to the Network.

The programme featured a diverse range of speakers who addressed topics including participation, inclusion, resilience, leadership and active citizenship. Workshops, discussions and networking opportunities encouraged collaboration between communities nationwide, while a series of visits across County Roscommon showcased the county’s heritage, biodiversity, community initiatives and strong culture of volunteerism.

Jerry Buttimer, Fiona NiChuinn, Una NiChuinn, and members of Roscommon PPN — With Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Jerry Buttimer (centre), were (L-R) Fiona NiChuinn (Senior Executive Officer Roscommon County Council), Una NiChuinn (Conference MC/Roscommon County Council), Marion Parker (Roscommon PPN Secretariat), Paul Clabby (Roscommon PPN Resource Worker/Roscommon County Council), Jerry Buttimer, Niall Croghan (Roscommon PPN Chairperson), Vincent Moran (Roscommon PPN Secretariat), Jody Moylan (PPN Unit/Roscommon County Council), John Mulvihill (Roscommon PPN Secretariat).

More than a national gathering, the conference served as a celebration of community leadership and civic participation. It strengthened relationships between PPNs throughout Ireland, fostered new connections and created opportunities for future collaboration, leaving a lasting legacy for both Roscommon and the wider Public Participation Network community.

Visit our YouTube channel to view the workshop videos and interviews with the participants.