Kildare PPN Addresses Oireachtas Committee on Funding and Future of Community Engagement

On July 16th, Kildare Public Participation Network (PPN) had the honour of addressing the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development. Representing over 830 community groups across the county, Coordinator Gráinne Fleming delivered a strong message: while our network has grown in size and responsibility, the supports we receive have not kept pace.

Gráinne shared that since January, Kildare PPN has welcomed 149 new groups—highlighting the growing appetite for civic involvement in our rapidly expanding county. Yet despite this growth, our core funding has remained largely unchanged since 2016, even as inflation and service demands increase.

The message was clear: we are proud of our achievements, but we’re stretched to capacity. Gráinne outlined the need for proper staff recognition, longer-term funding models, additional supports for PPN Representatives and urgent clarification on financial policies that impact leave entitlements.

This was an important opportunity to make our members’ voices heard at the highest level. Our presentation aimed to secure greater investment in community engagement, digital inclusion, and volunteer support—so that we can continue to be a strong, effective voice for Kildare’s community sector.

Our pre-budget submission is now being sent to the Minister for consideration.

We’ll continue to keep you updated on progress and thank all our members for your continued support.