A really positive and energising evening for Shannon Community Partnership Network meeting this week. Over 60 people came together at the Future Mobility Campus Ireland for a community-led networking event focused on collaboration, volunteering and practical action for Shannon as we move into 2026.

It was encouraging to see residents, community groups, stakeholders and public representatives in the same room, sharing updates and exploring how they can contribute through the Shannon Community Network task teams. A particular highlight was hearing directly from volunteers across Arts, Culture & Heritage, Disability, Sustainability and St Patrick’s Day, who spoke honestly about progress to date and what’s needed next to build momentum.

Thank you to Clarecare for their thoughtful contributions, to all speakers and panellists, and to Smitz Café & Don Murphy for supplying delicious food, and Wassim Derguech and Toni Fleming for providing an informal, warm atmosphere that made genuine connection possible. As Vice Chair Don O'Sullivan reflected on the night, community grows through shared ownership, practical action and people being willing to step in – even in small ways. This event was a strong reminder of the collective capacity that exists in Shannon.

A further thanks to Fiona Cushley and Eoghan Begley for providing some great images and videos of the night. Further opportunities to get involved will be shared soon, and we look forward to continuing this collaborative momentum into the year ahead.