Issue No. 46 | August 2025
South West Mayo Development Company CLG
Empowering Communities - Enriching Lives
In the Loop Newsletter
SWMDC Represents Local Communities at National Strategy Consultation
SWMDC Chairperson Thomas Fitzpatrick (right) and CEO Sabina Trench (4th from right) at the Strategy Consultation with Minister of State, Jerry Buttimer (3rd from right)
South West Mayo Development Company’s CEO and Chair recently took part in the Community & Voluntary Strategy Consultation, hosted by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht (DRCDG) and addressed by Minister of State Jerry Buttimer.
This consultation is a key step in shaping the next whole-of-government strategy to support Ireland’s community and voluntary sector from 2026 to 2030. It builds on the current strategy, Sustainable, Inclusive and Empowered Communities 2019–2024, which has now been extended into 2025.
By attending, SWMDC aimed to ensure that the voices of our communities are heard at the highest levels of national policy-making.
We believe that meaningful engagement in these processes is vital to creating policies that reflect the needs, strengths, and aspirations of the people we serve. As always, SWMDC remains committed to advocating for inclusive, empowered, and sustainable communities across our region.
We’ll continue to keep you updated as this strategy develops.
A New Chapter Begins: Clogher’s 2025–2030 Action Plan Launched
We are delighted to share that the Clogher Community Futures Action Plan was officially launched by Alan Dillon T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The event was met with great enthusiasm and pride by the the local community.
The plan represents the culmination of months of work by local volunteers and the Community Futures team, which is hosted by South West Mayo Development Company on behalf of Mayo County Council.
The development of the action plan was deeply rooted in community engagement. 117 households completed the community views survey forms, almost 100 people attended the community open day, and representatives from local groups participated in 20 stakeholder interviews.
The action plan outlines a range of priorities under four main headings:
- Infrastructure, Roads and Transport | Community Centre, Facilities and Activities
- Tourism and Local Economy | Environment and Sustainability
These priorities will guide local efforts over the next five years, helping to shape a more vibrant, connected, and sustainable Clogher.
We wish the Clogher community every success in implementing their plan and reaffirm our support as they bring these actions to life in the months and years ahead.
Tree-mendous Opportunity for Local Groups!
Trees on the Land is a cross-border initiative working to increase tree cover and woodland in rural and urban areas. Sponsored trees are available free of charge to community groups, councils, sports clubs, youth groups, healthcare and hospital grounds, church and faith communities. Tidy Towns, residents groups, community gardens and allotments, scouts groups and community groups of all kinds are welcome to apply.
Individual gardeners are also welcome to apply for trees to add to their gardens, however a minimal fee will apply.
Applications are now open for Tree Packs for planting in Winter 2025 – Spring 2026. A limited number of trees are available, so applications are accepted on a first come first served basis. Anyone interested is advised to apply promptly to avoid disappointment.
Application Deadline: 5pm on Tuesday 30th September 2025.
More information and details on how to apply for the Tree Packs can be found here: https://www.treesontheland.com/plant-trees
Community Impact through Rural Social Scheme & Tús Initiative Did you know?
We’re proud to to share the incredible contribution our Rural Social Scheme (RSS) and Tús Initiative participants make every week across South and West Mayo.
Over 6,000 support hours are provided weekly to community and voluntary organisations—ranging from local development groups and tidy towns committees to heritage centres and sports clubs.
If these hours were paid at the current minimum wage, the annual value would be an astounding €982,530 – a reflection of the immense social and economic impact these programmes have on our region.
Programme Reach – We have 8 Rural Social Schemes and 5 Tús Initiatives operating throughout South and West Mayo.
Currently, we have over 300 participants across both schemes working with over 400 community / voluntary groups. These individuals bring a diverse mix of skills, experience, and dedication, helping to strengthen the fabric of our communities while gaining valuable work experience and social connection.
These programmes are far more than just work placements—they’re about empowerment, inclusion, and community spirit.
If you’d like get involved with our RSS or Tús programmes, please contact us:
Phone: 094 936 6692 | Email: info@southmayo.com | Website: www.southmayo.com
Together, we’re building stronger communities—one hour at a time.
Tús Programme Helps Cultivate Charity Success at Lough Lannagh
On Sunday, 20th July 2025, Lough Lannagh Village in Castlebar welcomed visitors for a self-guided tour of its lakeside gardens and community polytunnel, in support of Daisy Lodge Mayo.
Guests enjoyed a peaceful afternoon exploring the grounds, learning about sustainable gardening practices, and sampling tea, coffee, and homemade scones. All donations went directly to Daisy Lodge Mayo.
The project was made possible thanks to the SWMDC Tús programme, which placed four Tús workers as community gardeners with the Lough Lannagh polytunnel.
SICAP Summer Highlights: Community, Connection, Wellbeing
Exhibits at the Claremorris Agricultural Show 2025!
n recent weeks, South West Mayo Development Company (SWMDC), through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), organised a series of summer outings that brought together individuals from across our client groups. These events were more than just enjoyable excursions – they offered meaningful opportunities for inclusion, connection, and mental wellbeing.
Participants visited the Claremorris Agricultural Show, explored the serene beauty of Kylemore Abbey and Glencar Waterfall, and even took part in surfing lessons at Carrownisky Strand. Each trip was designed to provide access to experiences that might otherwise be out of reach, and the response from those who joined us was overwhelmingly positive.
Our summer programme continues to be a vital part of our work, offering people a chance to step away from daily challenges and engage in uplifting and enjoyable activities. These outings help foster new friendships, strengthen community ties, and support emotional resilience.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make these days possible. The heartfelt thanks shared by participants remind us of the lasting impact that shared experiences can have. As always, we look forward to continuing this important work and creating more opportunities for connection and inclusion in the months ahead.
One of the groups at Glencar Waterfall
More groups enjoying the adventure of surfing on Carrowniskey Strand, and the leisurely pace of Kylemore Abbey!
Ready to Work Programme Showcased at Westport Chamber AGM
Damian Hughes, Employer Liaison Ready To Work, Kiera Keogh TD, Siobhan O’Sullivan, Director of Sales & Marketing Westport Estate, Dermot Langan, President Westport Chamber, Ciaran Reidy, General Manager The Grace, Cllr Peter Flynn.
Damian Hughes and Ann Marie Jordan from our Ready to Work team attended the Westport Chamber of Commerce AGM, held in the Leeson Enterprise Centre, Westport. Damian was one of the keynote speakers and spoke about the benefits of inclusive recruitment and the opportunity the Ready To Work programme presents to local businesses.
The AGM was very well attended by local businesses and public representatives, including Deputy Kiera Keogh TD and Councillor Peter Flynn (Cathaoirleach Westport Belmullet MD).
Damian spoke about how the Ready To Work programme can benefit employers and help them recruit new employees using the supported employment model. The theme of the presentation was Inclusive Hiring – Made Easy. Damian also spoke about two local Westport businesses which have already engaged with Ready To Work and are successfully employing our programme clients. These local success stories particularly resonated with those present.
Many thanks to Dermot Langan, President of Westport Chamber of Commerce, for the kind invitation to attend. Thanks also to Geraldine and Karen for facilitating us to attend. If you would like to find out more about our Ready to Work programme (as an employer or a person with disabilities), please contact us on:
Phone: 098 419 50 | Email: info@southmayo.com | Website: www.southmayo.com
Save The Date! Mayo Social Enterprise Conference Friday, 24th October 2025
As part of the Mayo Social Enterprise Strategy 2024-2027, a stimulating conference will take place in The Great National Hotel Ballina this October, and anyone with an interest in Social Enterprise is advised to save the date! The theme of the conference will be the Circular Economy.
The event will be opened by Minister Alan Dillon, Minister of State for Enterprise, Trade and Employment with special responsibility for the Circular Economy. Speakers will include Sarah Daly, CEO Creative Spark Dundalk; Claire Downey, CEO Rediscovery Centre, Dublin; Ian Brannigan/Anne Graham – Western Development Commission.
We hope it will be informative, feed into policy, and generate ideas for new and existing social enterprises to create employment and income in new ways. Stay tuned for more information which will be announced shortly!
SICAP Fishing Trip Brings Men’s Sheds Together
As part of the Castlebar and Claremorris SICAP initiative, (Supporting Social Inclusion and Community Animation), members from five local Men’s Shed groups came together for a memorable fishing trip designed to foster connection and community spirit.
Following a series of site visits and consultations, the idea of a shared fishing trip emerged as a perfect way to network, relax, and enjoy the outdoors together. Clew Bay Charters was selected for the outing, offering a fully accessible boat departing from Newport which was ideal for participants of all mobility levels.
The day was a resounding success, with plenty of laughs, shared stories, and a delicious lunch. The group returned to shore with a fine catch of pollock and mackerel, and even finer memories.
Participating Groups:
· Charlestown Men’s Shed
· Ballinrobe Men’s Shed
· Castlebar Men’s Shed
· Ballyhaunis Men’s Shed
· Kiltimagh Men’s Shed
The gang heading off on Mo Chara into Clew Bay
Take Charge of Your Health with the Living Well Programme – New Set of Programmes Starting in September
Living Well is a free six-week programme for adults with long-term health conditions, featuring weekly 2.5-hour workshops. It helps build confidence and self-management skills while connecting participants with others facing similar challenges.
For further information contact: Fiona at fcunnane@southmayo.com or phone 087 718 5615
Calling Female Entrepreneurs: Apply NOW for ACORNS Support
ACORNS is a six-month peer-support initiative for early-stage female entrepreneurs in rural Ireland, backed by the Department of Agriculture. The programme features interactive round table sessions led by experienced female business owners and covers key topics like strategy, marketing, finance, and implementation.
Participants meet monthly from November to March, with a final residential Development Forum in April focused on SMART planning. The first session takes place on 20–21 October 2025.
Eligibility: Applicants must own or part-own a rural-based business started after June 2022, or be actively planning one. They should expect to become employers within three years.
Apply by: Midnight, Monday, September 22nd, 2025
More info & application: www.acorns.ie
ORIS Success for South Mayo
We were delighted to receive news from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht that we have been successful in our three Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) applications.
The following projects have been approved:
- Balla Town Park Walks: Upgrade of the Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail and Loop Walks within Balla Town Park: €40,000
- Bohola Walking & Cycling Hub: The completion of the Bohola Walking & Cycling Hub to include seating, educational signage, and viewing points: €18,000
- Mayo Abbey Wetlands: Creation of pathways around an innovative wetland area with fencing, seating, and viewing platform: €39,903
This totals €97,903 additional funding secured for the area, which would not have come into the area if it weren’t for the SWMDC applications made by Martin Dillane, RRO and Majella Mulchrone, Finance & Administration on our behalf. We look forward to implementing these projects in the months ahead.
The wonderful community walk amenity at Balla Town Park
