Waterford Public Participation Network (PPN) is a network that allows Waterford City & County Council connect with community groups in Waterford.
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COMMUNITY & VOLUNTARY
Member Groups whose main focus is on community responses to local issues and who have activities that promote the overall wellbeing in their community. Examples of Member Groups include Residents’ Associations, Community Councils, Active Retirement Groups, Arts Groups, Youth Groups and so on.
SOCIAL INCLUSION
Member Groups involved in working to improve the life chances and opportunities of those who are marginalised in society; those living in poverty; or those in unemployment using community development approaches to build sustainable communities. Examples of organisations include Traveller groups, groups supporting new communities, people with disabilities, mental health and suicide awareness groups, Women’s groups and so on.
ENVIRONMENT
Member Groups whose main aims and activities are Environmental (i.e. ecological) protection and / or environmental sustainability. Such activities include permanent protection of wildlife, species specific care, organic horticulture or education, environmental education or protection, environmental sustainability, resource efficiency and recycling, invasive alien species prevention/removal. NB: As a requirement, in order to be part of the Environmental College/Pillar, groups must meet certain specific criteria, provided by the Environmental Pillar. SEE HERE FOR CRITERIA
How do PPNs work?
The PPN is the “go to” for all local authorities who wish to benefit from community and voluntary expertise in their area.
PPNs give citizens a greater say in local government decisions which affect their own communities. Our democracy is strengthened, by allowing diverse views and interests to be considered as part of the decision making process of local Government. The result is more transparent, better informed and improved decisions.
Waterford Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) and Strategic Policy Committees (SPCs) must source and elect their community representatives through the PPN.
How are PPNs funded?

A HANDBOOK has been developed for those involved in PPNs.
A National PPN Advisory Group has also been set up to provide advice on and help develop and monitor PPNs.