The event, held at Hope Café, was facilitated by the board of Shannon Community Partnership: Siobhán Boyd (Chairperson), Denise O’Brien, Joanne Begley, Sam Stephen, Sue Corcoran, Derek Clune, Don O’Sullivan and Geraldine Lambert.

Shannon Community Network was established to move away from groups working in isolation and instead foster collaboration, information sharing and collective action. The purpose of the Network is to provide a forum for groups and individuals to connect, share ideas and work side-by-side on the issues and opportunities that matter most to Shannon.

A standout feature of the evening was the dynamic collaboration during the table activities, where each board member supported a working group focused on one of the following key themes: Arts, Heritage & Culture; Health, Wellbeing, Sports & Recreation; Environment & Sustainability; Learning & Education; Local Economy & Enterprise; and Community, Housing & Neighbourhoods.

Groups worked together to identify priorities, discuss challenges and agree practical next steps — including nominating a lead contact and committing to meet again before the end of May to continue their progress.

Guest speaker Helena McElmeel, architect and community advocate, shared her experience of community-led regeneration and the power of a shared mandate, drawing on her work with the Ennistymon Town Team. Her presentation reinforced the importance of collaboration, inclusive engagement, and a clear vision for the future.

Chairperson Siobhán Boyd expressed her appreciation for the strong engagement on the night, noting, “It’s fantastic to see the community coming together with such energy and commitment. We’re keen now for the groups to take shape and start driving real action for Shannon.”

Shannon Community Partnership's board will continue to support the groups, with the leadership and energy coming from within The Network itself. Task groups will meet again before the end of May, and people are still welcome to join if they have a particular interest. Keep an eye out for May's Shannon Diary and our Facebook page to stay informed about future meetings.

For more information or to get involved please reach out to any of our Board Members, or email us at contact@shannoncp.ie