Communities showcase pride in their place to visiting judges
Pride of Place judges Liam Hannaway and Catriona Murphy (centre) were welcomed to Carlow by Rev Paul Fitzpatrick, Norah Ryan, president of Carlow Chamber of Commerce, cllr Fergal Browne (deputy mayor of Carlow), cllr Ken Murnane (cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council) and Padraig O'Gorman (director of services at Carlow County Council) Photos: michaelorourkephotography.ie
CARLOW’S community spirit was on full display this summer as four outstanding local initiatives welcomed judges for the 2025 IPB Pride of Place awards, demonstrating the county’s commitment to grassroots engagement and community excellence.
The judging process began on Friday 13 June, when judges Martina Moloney and Declan Nelson visited two particular projects that exemplify the power of community-driven change.
Representing Carlow in the ‘Population under 300’ category, the village of Rathanna impressed judges with its extraordinary community spirit, despite its modest size. Located in the foothills of the Blackstairs mountains, the village presented a compelling story of heritage preservation and intergenerational connection. Rathanna Village Group demonstrated how a thriving rural identity can continue to evolve while honouring its past, proving that population size doesn’t limit community impact.
The Community Roots Project, entered in the Community Youth Initiative category, showed the transformative power of youth engagement. Led by Carlow Regional Youth Services, this collaborative programme has cultivated leadership, political awareness and civic responsibility among young people.
The initiative has achieved remarkable results, training 48 young people as community leaders and providing opportunities for participants to meet national leaders during a visit to Dáil Éireann. The programme encourages youth involvement in local community groups through hands-on experience and mentorship.
Judging continued on Saturday 19 July, when judges Katrina Murphy and Liam Hannaway arrived to assess the final two entries. Carlow town, competing in the ‘Population over 5,000’ category, presented an ambitious showcase of civic engagement and urban renewal.
The presentation, delivered by representatives from Carlow Tidy Towns and Carlow Chamber of Commerce, including Rowena Dooley, highlighted the town’s regeneration efforts, biodiversity initiatives and community programmes.
Judges went around key locations, including Carlow Bus Park, Dublin Street, St Mary’s Church, the town hall and civic plaza, Delta Sensory Gardens, An Gairdín Beo, New Oak Estate and The Exchange. Each location illustrated ongoing transformation and growing community pride.
A particular highlight was the community engagement at Carlow Town Park and New Oak Community Centre, where local groups came out to meet the judges. The timing allowed judges to experience the Saturday morning buzz with Carlow town parkrun, dragon boats and rowing club and Carlow farmers market all in full swing.
The judging finished with a visit to the Cáirdeas Centre in Tullow, representing Carlow in the ‘Inclusive communities’ category. The centre provides support to adults with intellectual disabilities and autism, promoting independence and community inclusion through tailored education, vocational training and social integration programmes.
CEO Eileen Doyle highlighted the centre’s work, with judges viewing a video about the services offered. However, the day’s highlight came from service user Dale O’Neill, who shared his personal journey, including representing Ireland in a prestigious soccer tournament, graduating from Trinity College Dublin and gaining employment.
Cllr Ken Murnane, cathaoirleach of Carlow Co Council, commended all four entries: “This year’s entries are a reflection of the dedication and hard work that goes into making communities great. Well done to all our community leaders who work tirelessly, not just for the judging day but every day.”
Cllr Fergal Browne, deputy mayor of the municipal district of Carlow, added: “Each project is making a real difference – from the mountains of Rathanna to the vibrant heart of Carlow town, and from youth-led initiatives to person-centred adult services. It is inspiring to see the values of inclusion, resilience and pride so powerfully expressed in every corner of the county.”
Carlow County Council thanked all community groups, businesses and everyone involved in this year’s IPB Pride of Place. The winners of the 2025 awards will be announced at a national ceremony later this year.
