In times of crisis — whether it’s a severe storm, a pandemic, or a power outage — Ireland’s communities have always pulled together. A new National PPN Report, “Building Community Resilience for Times of Emergency,” showcases just how vital Public Participation Networks (PPNs) are in helping local communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies.
Read the full report: National PPN Report – Building Community Resilience for Times of Emergency (2025)
A Nationwide Effort
The report, the first of its kind, was developed through a national survey of PPNs and a workshop held in Portlaoise in July 2025, with participation from representatives across the country. Led by the PPNs of Tipperary, Leitrim and Laois, and supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD), the initiative gathered real-world experiences and practical ideas from local networks who have been at the heart of community responses during recent crises.
Lessons from the Frontline
The report highlights the many emergencies that have tested communities in recent years — from COVID-19 and extreme weather events to civil unrest and cyber-attacks. Throughout these challenges, PPNs have played a vital role in sharing information, mapping community supports, and coordinating local responses.
However, PPNs also identified key challenges:
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A lack of preparedness and joined-up thinking among agencies.
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Communication breakdowns during emergencies.
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Limited resources and recognition for community-led action.
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The need for clearer collaboration and leadership at both national and local levels.
The Power of Connection
Despite limited funding and staff, PPNs have consistently shown what strong, connected communities can achieve. The report shares inspiring examples, such as:
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Roscommon PPN’s Community Hubs during Storm Eowyn, which provided essentials to isolated areas.
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Leitrim PPN’s public campaign calling for better preparedness after repeated storm outages.
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Laois and Meath PPNs’ digital mapping projects that helped coordinate COVID-19 supports and emergency responses.
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Kildare PPN’s “Be Winter Ready” booklet, offering practical tips for households.
Building for the Future
The report calls for a national policy on community resilience, with PPNs recognised as essential partners in emergency planning. Among the key recommendations are:
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Collaborative planning structures involving state agencies, local authorities, and PPNs.
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Clear communication protocols to ensure accurate, accessible information during crises.
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Comprehensive mapping of community supports and infrastructure.
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Investment in community resilience training and local emergency hubs.
Taking Action Together
The PPNs are now urging Government to provide the resources and recognition needed to strengthen community readiness. In the meantime, PPNs across Ireland — including Waterford PPN — are taking practical steps:
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Raising awareness of emergency planning at Plenary meetings.
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Encouraging community audits and mapping of local supports.
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Offering training opportunities to build resilience at local level.
A Call for Collaboration
As the report concludes, building resilience is a “whole of society” effort. It requires genuine partnership between agencies, government bodies, and the communities themselves. The PPNs bring the local knowledge, trust, and connections that can make all the difference when challenges arise.
By investing in this network and supporting community voices, Ireland can ensure that every community — rural or urban — is better prepared, more connected, and more resilient for whatever lies ahead.
Read the full report: National PPN Report – Building Community Resilience for Times of Emergency (2025)