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PPNs can help community groups make their voices heard

Public Participation Networks (PPNs) are a way for community groups to ensure that decisions made by local authorities reflect their experiences and expertise. They were set up in 2014 to improve how communities can take part in shaping local policies and plans.

Every local authority area in the country has its own PPN. Groups that join can include local clubs, environmental organisations, and community groups focused on social inclusion.

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What do PPNs do?

PPNs enable community groups to:

  • Stay informed about public consultations, funding opportunities, and local plans.
  • Take part in decision-making by nominating representatives to sit on local committees (such as those focused on planning, housing or community development).
  • Share their views with local authorities in a structured way.

This system is meant to make sure that local knowledge and experience feeds into policy, and decisions are made with input from the people affected.

What kind of community groups get involved?

PPN members are organised into three pillars:

  • Community: general local interest groups (e.g. sports clubs, arts groups, residents’ associations).
  • Social Inclusion: groups focused on equality or working with people who are marginalised.
  • Environmentl: organisations concerned with protecting the environment or promoting sustainability.

Representatives from these categories take part in various county or city committees. The representatives bring the views of their member groups to the table and ensure they are taken on board.

How do PPNs benefit local communities?

The value PPNs is that they help local authorities hear directly from people who are active in their communities. This means decisions can be better informed by what’s happening on the ground.

For example:

  • A community group working with older people might highlight issues with rural transport.
  • An environmental group might give feedback on a proposed development that could affect a local habitat.
  • A disability organisation could flag accessibility problems in public spaces.

Because PPN members are involved in many different areas of community life, they can bring a wide range of knowledge to the table. This helps make local policy more relevant and more responsive to community needs.

Resources

  • For more information on services provided by local authorities that benefit communities visit our Community services page.
  • For more details on PPNs around Ireland visit gov.ie/PPN
  • If you're in community and voluntary group and you'd like to join your local PPN you can reach out to them directly. Visit the Find Your Local PPN page on gov.ie/PPN for contact details.