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Healthy Ireland

By Waterford City & County Council

Tugann Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge cuireadh don phobal cabhrú chun Port Láirge níos cuimsithí a mhúnlú

Tá Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, i gcomhar le Comhpháirtíocht Spóirt Phort Láirge, tar éis tús a chur le Plean Spóirt Áitiúil a fhorbairt atá dírithe ar rannpháirtíocht i spórt agus i ngníomhaíocht choirp a mhéadú ar fud na Cathrach agus an Chontae.

Tá sé seo ag teacht le Beartas Náisiúnta Spóirt an Rialtais 2018–2027 agus tacaíonn Spórt Éireann leis faoi Ghníomhaíocht 8 den bheartas.

Séard a bheidh sa Phlean Spóirt ná creat ardleibhéil 5 bliana don chontae ar fad, ina mbeidh gníomhaíochtaí spriocdhírithe chun rannpháirtíocht i ngníomhaíochtaí spóirt agus coirp ar fud an Chontae a mhéadú agus Port Láirge níos gníomhaí agus níos sláintiúla a chothú. Áireofar ann roinnt tosaíochtaí faoi thrí théama straitéiseacha: Daoine agus Pobail Ghníomhacha, Spásanna agus Áiteanna Gníomhacha agus Cumarsáid agus Comhpháirtíochtaí Gníomhacha.

Tá Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge ag tabhairt cuireadh don phobal freastal ar aon cheann de na ceithre cheardlann comhairliúcháin phoiblí a bheidh ar siúl sa chathair agus sa chontae i mí Mheán Fómhair agus i mí Dheireadh Fómhair.

De réir Sinéad Breathnach, Oifigeach Feidhmiúcháin Sinsearach, Rannóg Pobail agus Spóirt Chomhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, ní féidir an iomarca béime a leagan ar na tionchair dhearfacha a bhíonn ag gnáth-rannpháirtíocht spóirt agus choirp.

“Tá na buntáistí forleathan agus ní hamháin go mbíonn tionchar dearfach acu ar an meabhairshláinte agus ar an tsláinte choirp, ach méadaíonn siad an idirghníomhaíocht shóisialta freisin, cruthaíonn siad timpeallacht níos sláintiúla agus laghdaíonn siad costais cúraim sláinte níos fadtéarmaí sa tsochaí.

“Tabharfaidh na ceardlanna comhairliúcháin phoiblí seo deis don phobal a dtuairimí agus a léargais a roinnt agus cabhrú linn chun Port Láirge níos cuimsithí, níos gníomhaí agus níos sláintiúla a mhúnlú.”

Beidh na ceardlanna comhairliúcháin phoiblí éascaithe ar siúl idir 6pm agus 8pm sna háiteanna seo a leanas:

  • Ionad Pobail Rainbow, Coill Mhic Thomáisín, X42 XW90, Dé Luain 29 Meán Fómhair
  • Óstán na Páirce, Dún Garbhán, X35 CC97, Dé Máirt 30 Meán Fómhair
  • Óstán Dooleys, Port Láirge, X91 P86C, Dé Céadaoin 1 Deireadh Fómhair
  • Óstán Majestic, Trá Mhór, X91 WC1Y Déardaoin 2 Deireadh Fómhair

Tá na himeachtaí seo saor in aisce, agus tá fáilte roimh chách freastal orthu, ach is fearr clárú roimh ré. Is féidir leat é sin a dhéanamh trí ríomhphost a sheoladh chuig gmulhall@waterfordcouncil.ie

Beidh deis ann chomh maith do thuairimí a chur isteach trí shuirbhé comhairliúcháin ar líne, a bheidh ar fáil go luath.

Is mian linn go léir cabhrú chun Port Láirge níos ionchuimsithí a chruthú.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council invites the public to help shape a more active inclusive Waterford

Waterford City and County Council, in collaboration with Waterford Sports Partnership, has commenced the development of a Local Sports Plan aimed at increasing participation in sport and physical activity across the City and County.

This aligns with the Government’s National Sports Policy 2018–2027 and is supported by Sport Ireland under Action 8 of the policy.

The Sports Plan will be a high-level countywide 5-year framework with targeted actions to increase participation in sport and physical activities across the County and foster a more active and healthier Waterford and will include a number of priorities under three strategic themes: Active People & Communities, Active Spaces & Places and Active Communications & Partnerships.

Waterford City and County Council is inviting members of the public to attend any of the four public consultation workshops taking place in the city and county in September and October.

According to Sinéad Breathnach, Senior Executive Officer, Community and Sports department at Waterford City and County Council, the positive impacts of regular sport and physical activity participation cannot be underemphasised.

“The benefits are far-reaching and not only have a positive impact on mental and physical health, but also increase social interaction, create a healthier environment and reduce longer-term healthcare costs in society.

“The public consultation workshops will provide an opportunity for the public to share their views and insights and help shape a more inclusive, active and healthier Waterford.”

The upcoming facilitated public consultation workshops take place between 6pm and 8pm at:

  • Rainbow Community Centre, Kilmacthomas, X42 XW90, on Monday September 29th
  • The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, X35 CC97, on Tuesday September 30th
  • Dooleys Hotel, Waterford, X91 P86C, on Wednesday October 1st
  • Majestic Hotel, Tramore, X91 WC1Y Thursday October 2nd

These events are free, and all are welcome to attend, however pre-registration is preferred.  You can do so by emailing gmulhall@waterfordcouncil.ie

There will also be the opportunity to submit your views through an online consultation survey, which will be available shortly.

Let’s all have our say in helping to create a more active inclusive Waterford.

By Waterford City & County Council

Cyclists Complete ‘Giant Steps to Viking Shores’ Journey

The “Giant Steps to Viking Shores” cycle has triumphantly concluded as dedicated cyclists returned to Waterford, having completed a remarkable journey to promote home-grown Irish produce and healthy living. The initiative was supported by Healthy Waterford, a project hosted by the Waterford City and County Community Section. Healthy Waterford’s mission is to promote and support community wellbeing and supports and runs a multitude of collaborations with organisations throughout Waterford and beyond.

Participants pedalled their way across a challenging route, raising awareness for sustainable food choices and the importance of physical well-being. Upon their return to Waterford, the cyclists received a warm welcome from the community and local representatives.

Deputy Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. John Pratt, commended the efforts of all involved:

“It’s a proud moment to welcome back the cyclists who took on this fantastic challenge all the way from the Giant’s Causeway to Waterford. Their dedication not only highlights the strength of our community spirit but also shines a light on the importance of supporting local, home-grown Irish produce. Waterford is proud to stand behind initiatives like this that promote health, sustainability, and local pride.”

A key figure behind the event was Colman Power, one of the lead organisers and a well-known advocate for health, horticulture and nutrition. A proud member of the Kilmeaden Community and Ballyduff Lower GAA Club, Colman’s grassroots connection to farmers, suppliers and advocates played a vital role in rallying support and inspiring others to take part. Colman is also a member of the Healthy Waterford Network, a group for professionals in the field of health and well-being.

Colman said: “We had a great event to wrap up our cycle in Waterford. Local producers such as Barefoot farm gave us wonderful insights about locally grown produce done in a sustainable manner. We would like to thank all the other producers around Waterford who supported us on our last day and the many who did the same on our journey form the Giants Causeway”

The campaign was supported thanks to the backing of Healthy Waterford, whose ongoing commitment to promoting community well-being continues to make a tangible difference in local initiatives like this one.

As the cyclists return to well-earned rest, their efforts leave behind not just tire tracks, but a lasting message about the power of community, the value of Irish produce, and the importance of healthy living.

If you are a practitioner in the field of Health and Wellbeing and would like to find out more about the network contact Eoin Morrissey via eoinmorrissey@waterfordcouncil.ie

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Healthy Waterford Officially Launches New Members Group

Healthy Waterford

 

Healthy Waterford officially launched its Practitioners Network Members Group recently at the Dunhill Education Centre. This new group marks a significant step towards boosting collaborative efforts and improving the health and well-being of the Waterford community.

The gathering drew a strong turnout of practitioners, representatives from various community groups, organizations, and individuals all dedicated to fostering a healthier Waterford. A highlight of the event was an address by John O’Leary, Mayor of Comeragh Municipal District, who stressed the profound importance of this new initiative.

Mayor O’Leary emphasised, “Today’s gathering here at the Dunhill Education Centre isn’t just a meeting; it’s a testament to our collective commitment to a healthier future for everyone in Waterford. Establishing the Healthy Waterford Network Members Group for practitioners is a great step in bringing together the diverse talents and dedication within our community. By working collaboratively, sharing resources, and aligning our efforts, we can achieve far greater impact than any single organization could alone.”

The Healthy Waterford Practitioners Network Members Group aims to create a dynamic platform for:

· Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating regular interaction and the exchange of best practices among members.

· Resource Coordination: Identifying and leveraging existing resources more effectively to maximize impact.

· Joint Initiative Development: Working together on new projects and programs to address key health and well-being priorities.

· Community Engagement: Strengthening connections with the wider community to ensure initiatives are responsive to local needs.

We’re incredibly excited to launch the Healthy Waterford Practitioners Network Members Group,” said Eoin Morrissey, Healthy City and County Coordinator. “The energy and commitment shown by practitioners engaging in this is really encouraging. This network will be the cornerstone of our efforts to build a healthier Waterford, and we look forward to the innovative solutions and positive changes that will emerge from this collaborative platform.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Achieves Prestigious WHO Healthy City and County Designation

Waterford has officially been accredited as a World Health Organisation’s (WHOs) European Healthy City and County, joining a prestigious network of cities across Europe recognised for their commitment to placing health, equity and sustainability at the centre of local governance and development.

This prestigious recognition acknowledges Waterford’s unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of its citizens through comprehensive and sustainable initiatives.

Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and National Drug Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD, welcomed the announcement that the National Healthy Cities and Counties of Ireland Network, and the cities of Galway, Limerick and Waterford have officially been accredited as a World Health Organisation’s (WHO’s) European Healthy City in Phase VII (2019-2025).

The WHO Healthy Cities and Counties programme is a global movement that recognises cities and towns committed to health and sustainable development. It is not a health status award, but rather an acknowledgement of a political, institutional, and technical commitment to continuously improve the health and wellbeing of its people. The designation reflects collaborative effort across local government, health services, community groups, businesses, and residents to create an environment that supports optimal health and wellbeing for all.

Speaking about the designation, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy stated, “We are absolutely thrilled and immensely proud to receive the WHO Healthy City and County designation. This is a monumental achievement for Waterford, reflecting the dedication and hard work of countless individuals and organisations across our city and county.

“It underscores our commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and healthy environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

The journey to becoming a WHO Healthy City and County was made possible through the collaborative efforts of many key partners. This includes those involved with the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) and a wide range of other dedicated agencies such as HSE, SETU, WWETB, Waterford PPN, Waterford Area Partnership, Waterford Leader, and Waterford CYPSC.

Their collective expertise has been instrumental in developing and implementing initiatives across various crucial areas.

Waterford City and County Council Chief Executive Sean McKeown underscored this collaborative success, stating, “This designation is a testament to the ongoing commitment of both the LCDC, through its dedicated stakeholders, and Waterford City and County Council. It clearly demonstrates that health and wellbeing remain a key priority for us under our Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP).”

Waterford’s WHO Healthy City and County designation serves as a foundation for continuous development and improvement. Waterford will keep collaborating with the WHO and other international Healthy Cities and Counties to exchange best practices and gain insights from global experiences. This application received support from the Department of Health and Healthy Ireland Local Government.

This recognition marks a significant milestone for Waterford, solidifying its position as a forward-thinking region prioritising the holistic wellbeing of its population.

By Waterford City & County Council

Comhar Comaraigh Network Newsletter

Comhair Comeraigh - March 25

The March edition of the Comhar Comaraigh Network Newsletter is out now, bringing the latest updates, achievements, and events from across the Comeragh region, Co. Waterford.

It highlights key initiatives in rural social enterprise development, collaborative projects, and community successes.

The newsletter features updates on vibrant village regeneration, strategic plans for future funding, health initiatives, and rural tourism. Local accomplishments, like Tidy Towns awards, heritage preservation, and sporting victories, emphasise community spirit and growth.

Download here

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford’s first Walking Week is to get underway with a series of events planned

Waterford Sports Partnership is hosting a series of events across a week in April to celebrate walking for the first time.

Walking is Irelands number one recreational activity and offers numerous benefits, from improving physical health to enhancing mental well-being and in Waterford we have stunning landscapes, from coastal cliffs to rolling green hills to get out and enjoy the activity.

It allows us to connect with nature while staying active while regular walks can help reduce stress, boost cardiovascular health, and improve overall fitness.

In Waterford we have many walks across the county from forest trails, coastal walks, the greenway along with the magnificent walks up around the Comeragh and the Knockmealdown mountains.

Six events are planned around the county and will cover a range of activities from social walking, heritage walks to coastal walks along with Hill Skills to ensure you can stay safe while enjoying the outdoors.

A social walk in the People’s Park in Waterford City followed by a Pétanque taster led by the Waterford Pétanque Club will get proceedings underway on Monday 7th April while a fun introduction to Fitsticks or Activator Pole Walking is happening on Thursday 10th at the SETU Arena.

The Waterford Archaeological and Historical Society will take you on a journey ‘From the Victorians to the Vikings with heritage along the Waterford Greenway in Woodstown and Carriganore’ on Wednesday 9th April while those interested in the maritime heritage can take a 7km Coastal Walk with Tides and Tales in Dunmore East on Friday 11thApril.

For those who enjoy exploring our hills and mountains, an online webinar with Mediforce is on Tuesday 8th April where you can learn essential safety tips to help make your adventures safer and more enjoyable.

A Hill Skills Day on Saturday 12th April will give participants a full day’s training at Bay Lough with Mountaineering Ireland where participants will gain useful information and skills that will help keep them safe on the hills.

For further information and bookings, please visit our website www.waterfordsports partnership.ie.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council to Host Community Wellbeing Workshops

Waterford City and County Council, through its Community Department’s Health and Wellbeing program, is pleased to announce plans for a series of Community Wellbeing workshops across the Municipal Districts.

These interactive sessions will focus on enhancing community wellbeing by exploring key aspects of community development and will address a wide range of areas, including:

  • Wellbeing: Strategies for promoting positive mental health, stress management techniques, and support resources.
  • Physical Health and Activity: Encouraging healthy lifestyles, promoting physical activity, including active travel (walking and cycling).
  • Social Connection and Inclusion: Building stronger community bonds, fostering social interaction, and addressing social isolation.
  • Community Resilience: Developing strategies to address community challenges, building resilience, and empowering community members.

“Waterford City and County Council is deeply committed to the wellbeing of our residents,” said Cllr. Joe Kelly, Metropolitan Mayor of Waterford. “These workshops are a crucial step in empowering our communities to thrive. By focusing on mental and physical health, social connection, and resilience, we aim to create a stronger, more supportive environment for everyone.”

Sinéad Breathnach, Head of Community in Waterford City and County Council, added, “We believe that community-led initiatives are essential for creating lasting positive change. We are seeking expressions of interest from communities and community workers to collaborate with us in planning these workshops. By working together, we can ensure that the workshops address the specific needs and priorities of our communities.”

Waterford City and County Council is seeking expressions of interest from communities and community workers who are interested in collaborating on the planning of these workshops. Interested parties are encouraged to complete a short survey to:

  • Gauge community interest in the Community Wellbeing Seminar.
  • Identify key areas of concern and priorities for their community.
  • Plan a workshop that meets the specific needs of community members.

The survey can be accessed at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/D8CYM77

Waterford City and County Council encourages all interested community members to participate and contribute to the success of these vital workshops.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City & County Council rolls out Playful Communities project

Waterford City and County Council is building on the success of its 2024 project, which encouraged healthy and active neighbourhoods.

The Playful Communities initiative encourages children and adults to safely play outdoors, and resident groups and support agencies are invited to apply for participation.

Healthy Waterford and Waterford Sports Partnership, along with key stakeholders including Waterford Area Partnership, Ready Steady Play, Sláintecare Healthy Communities, Waterford Libraries, Waterford PPN, the Community Safety Partnership and the Waterford Child Care Committee are teaming up to begin the rollout of the Playful Communities Initiative for 2025.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy, officially launched the initiative at Carrickphierish Community Sports Hub and Educate Together National School, saying, “The Playful Communities initiative has proven to be an exceptional program, fostering stronger connections amongst residents and underscoring the importance of play and social interaction within our communities.

“Following its success in 2024, I am hopeful that even more communities throughout Waterford will have the opportunity to participate this year.”

Sinéad Breathnach, Head of Waterford City and County Council’s Community and Sports Department, outlined the importance of the Playful Communities approach, saying, “This project serves as a compelling example of how the community sector can effectively support residents in the development of resilient communities, particularly through the activation of accessible activities such as play and recreation.”

Building on last year’s initiative, several Playful Communities will be rolled out within Waterford City and County between May and September 2025.

To receive an application pack and to apply, email eoinmorrissey@waterfordcouncil.ie by February 28th.

By Waterford City & County Council

Reminder: Men’s Health Presentation : Lismore Library

 

Mens Health Nov24 Poster

Join Dr. Sabine Eggers, community pharmacist to learn about practical solutions to achieve good health with a focus on health issues specific to men on Monday 11th November at 14:00pm in Lismore Library.

This presentation is free but places are limited.

To book, phone Lismore Library on 058 21377 or email lismorelibrary@waterfordcouncil.ie

Men’s health encompasses a wide range of concerns, from physical conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

Initiatives to improve men’s health aims to increase awareness, encourage preventive measures, and ensure access to appropriate healthcare services.

This presentation is part of the Waterford Healthy Ireland at your Library initiative. For more information, please go to our website, here.

#HealthyIrelandatYourLibrary #HealthyWaterford #KeepWell #EatWell

By Waterford City & County Council

Reminder : Men’s Health Presentation : Carrickpherish Library

Carrickpherish 2024

Join Dr. Sabine Eggers, community pharmacist to learn about practical solutions to achieve good health with a focus on health issues specific to men on Monday 11th November at 10.30am in Carrickphierish Library.

This presentation is free but places are limited.

To book, phone Carrickphierish Library on 051 849696 or email carrickphierishlibrary@waterfordcouncil.ie

Men’s health encompasses a wide range of concerns, from physical conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

Initiatives to improve men’s health aims to increase awareness, encourage preventive measures, and ensure access to appropriate healthcare services.

This presentation is part of the Waterford Healthy Ireland at your Library initiative. For more information, please go to our website, here.

#HealthyIrelandatYourLibrary #HealthyWaterford #KeepWell #EatWell

By Waterford City & County Council

Men’s Health Presentation : Lismore Library

 

Mens Health Nov24 Poster

Join Dr. Sabine Eggers, community pharmacist to learn about practical solutions to achieve good health with a focus on health issues specific to men on Monday 11th November at 14:00pm in Lismore Library.

This presentation is free but places are limited.

To book, phone Lismore Library on 058 21377 or email lismorelibrary@waterfordcouncil.ie

Men’s health encompasses a wide range of concerns, from physical conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

Initiatives to improve men’s health aims to increase awareness, encourage preventive measures, and ensure access to appropriate healthcare services.

This presentation is part of the Waterford Healthy Ireland at your Library initiative. For more information, please go to our website, here.

#HealthyIrelandatYourLibrary #HealthyWaterford #KeepWell #EatWell

By Waterford City & County Council

Men’s Health Presentation : Carrickpherish Library

Carrickpherish 2024

Join Dr. Sabine Eggers, community pharmacist to learn about practical solutions to achieve good health with a focus on health issues specific to men on Monday 11th November at 10.30am in Carrickphierish Library.

This presentation is free but places are limited.

To book, phone Carrickphierish Library on 051 849696 or email carrickphierishlibrary@waterfordcouncil.ie

Men’s health encompasses a wide range of concerns, from physical conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

Initiatives to improve men’s health aims to increase awareness, encourage preventive measures, and ensure access to appropriate healthcare services.

This presentation is part of the Waterford Healthy Ireland at your Library initiative. For more information, please go to our website, here.

#HealthyIrelandatYourLibrary #HealthyWaterford #KeepWell #EatWell

By Waterford City & County Council

Age Well Expo comes to Dungarvan

On Tuesday, October 1st, Waterford’s second Age Well Expo of 2024 took place in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan and drew a large crowd, who heard from guest speakers, community groups and support agencies.

The Age Friendly Waterford event, in association with Healthy Waterford, UPMC and Waterford City and County Council showcases the services, supports and activities available to older people to lead fulfilling, healthy and active lives.

The jam-packed expo featured 40 exhibition stands, talks from keynote speakers and interviews with local organisations and community groups providing insightful and topical information to everyone who strives to age well.  The event was MCed by WLRfm’s Kieran Foley.

One of the highlights of the day, was the presence of Daniel Mulhall, a former Irish diplomat who has served as Ambassador to Malaysia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and most recently the United States.

Mr. Mulhall recounted his fascinating and distinguished long-spanning diplomatic career and how he, since his retirement, has embarked on new and rewarding projects. 

Since retirement in 2022, Mr. Mulhall has been Global Distinguished Professor of Irish Studies at Glucksman Ireland House, New York University, Parnell Fellow at Magdalene College, Cambridge and a Resident Fellow at the Institute of Politics, Harvard University. He is Honorary President of the Yeats Society (Sligo), a consultant with the global law firm, DLA Piper and a director of Carlichauns Entertainment, an animated TV series based on Irish folklore.  

Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council and Chair of Age Friendly Alliance, said, “The Age Well Expo is a friendly, accessible and practical event that provides valuable information and insights to older people to enhance quality of life.

“Being able to engage directly with a wide network of key support agencies and service providers really can have a positive impact when it comes to making informed choices about ageing well.  Judging by the energy and positivity in the room today, Waterford City and County Council will continue to support initiatives such as this, as we strive to make Waterford the best place to live, thrive and age well.”

Speaking following the event, UPMC Whitfield General Manager, Gwen Daniels was delighted with the event and the numbers that came along on the day saying, “This is the second Age Well Expo that UPMC has supported.  We are proud to be associated with an event that showcases the very best of provisions and services available to older people in Waterford and the region.

“It’s evident that this type of collaborative, multi-agency approach can undoubtedly enable older people in our communities to age better.”

Established in January 2014, Age Friendly Ireland coordinates the national Age Friendly Cities and Counties Programme with the first Age Friendly Strategy for Waterford City and County being launched in 2017.  The Programme brings together supports and provides technical guidance to the 31 local-authority-led, multi-agency Age Friendly City and County Programmes in every local authority area.

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