Carlow PPN expo and networking event on this week 

CARLOW Public Participation Network (PPN) will host its spring community expo and networking event this Thursday 23 April from 4pm to 6pm in the Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow, inviting community groups, organisations and the public to come together around the theme of social inclusion.

Patricia Duffe, Carlow PPN co-ordinator, said: “The event will shine a spotlight on the importance of ensuring that everyone in Carlow, regardless of background or circumstance, can take part fully in community life. 

Guided by the Carlow Wellbeing Vision, the expo will provide a space for local voices to be heard, ideas to be shared and connections to be made.’’ 

A key highlight will be the launch of the Carlow Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO), a new group led by, and for, disabled people in the county. The DPO will work to ensure that disabled people have a strong, collective voice in decisions that affect their lives.

The event will be officially launched by minister for rural and community development, the Gaeltacht and rural transport Jerry Buttimer, underlining the importance of community participation and inclusion at all levels.

Paula Soraghan, a community development worker, said the launch marks a major step forward: 

‘‘This is an historic moment for disabled people in Carlow. The Carlow DPO is about real representation ‒ disabled people speaking and advocating for ourselves. Being part of the PPN expo event shows how important it is that our voices are included in the wider community.’’ Maria Walsh, a member of the new organisation, said: ‘‘For too long, decisions about our lives have been made without us. The Carlow DPO will help change that. It gives us a way to connect, support each other and influence real change.’’ Carlow PPN is encouraging local groups and organisations to host a stand. Book your seat/stand by emailing carlowppn@carlowcoco.ie.