Celebrating the Vital Role of Older Persons Groups in Cavan and Monaghan
- Joanne McCabe
- Oct 2
- 2 min read
Cavan County Local Development (CCLD) and Monaghan Integrated Development (MID), in collaboration with the HSE Older Persons Services Cavan/Monaghan, were delighted to host a special recognition event to celebrate the vital role of older persons social groups across our two counties.
This important gathering, funded through HSE Section 39 support, was held on Wednesday, 1st October 2025 at the Errigal Hotel, Cootehill. The event brought together committee members, volunteers, and service providers to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of community groups in enriching the lives of older people. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, older people are supported to remain active, connected, and independent in their own homes and communities for longer.
A Day of Sharing, Learning, and Recognition
The event was co-hosted by Joanne McCabe, CCLD Older Persons Coordinator, and Bernie McHugh, MID Older Persons Coordinator, who welcomed participants and set the tone for an inspiring day.
Guest speakers offered insights, advice, and information on a wide range of services and supports available to older persons groups across Cavan and Monaghan:
Bernardine Lynch, HSE Service Manager Older Persons Services Cavan/Monaghan, addressed attendees on the importance of collaboration and community support.
Caroline Condell, Senior Occupational Therapist, HSE Falls Prevention Team, spoke about the Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons.
Ciara Brady, Road Safety Promotion Officer, delivered key messages from the Nationwide Road Safety Education Service.
An Garda Síochána, represented by Garda Tracy Donaghy and Garda Fiona Callan from the Community Engagement Team, shared valuable safety advice.
Francis McCarron, Community Development Team Leader, Monaghan Integrated Development, highlighted opportunities for further community engagement.
The day concluded with a calming Mindful Movement session facilitated by Patricia Crimin, offering a chance for participants to relax and recharge.
Collaboration Across Services
The event was enriched by the participation of a wide range of agencies and service providers, including:
Each organisation plays an important role in ensuring older people remain active and engaged in their communities.
A Spirit of Community
The day ended with a hot lunch, raffle, and plenty of time for groups to network and share experiences with their neighbouring communities. The atmosphere was one of celebration, appreciation, and renewed energy for the work ahead.
This recognition event, made possible with funding from HSE Section 39, is just one step in our shared commitment to supporting older persons services in Cavan and Monaghan. By working together, we will continue to strengthen community supports and create opportunities for older people to live healthy, connected, and independent lives.