Strong Turnout at Cavan Older Persons’ Council AGM
More than 180 older people from across the county attended the Annual General Meeting of the Cavan Older Persons’ Council at the Lavey Inn on Wednesday, 7 October, demonstrating the continued strength and importance of the voice of older people in County Cavan.
A highlight of the event was the election of 18 members to the Older Persons’ Executive, who will represent the views and priorities of older people and help shape future Age Friendly initiatives for County Cavan.
The AGM provides an opportunity for older people to meet, learn about services and supports available to them, and have their voices heard on issues affecting their lives and communities. Attendees also benefited from informative presentations from An Garda Síochána, the HSE, the ICA, Local Link, ALONE and the GAA, who shared information on a range of topics, including health, wellbeing, community safety, and opportunities to remain active and connected.
The event was organised by Cavan County Council and managed on the day by Cavan’s Age Friendly team of Seamus Clarke and new Age Friendly programme manager Joanne Hayes, Olwyn O Toole and Dr. Emer Coveney of Age Friendly Ireland were also in attendance as was Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Carmel Brady and Chief Executive Eoin Doyle. Le Chéile singers from Cootehill entertained attendees with poetry and song after a very enjoyable lunch in the Lavey Inn.
The AGM highlighted the ongoing success of the Age Friendly Programme, which works to make communities more inclusive and supportive for older people. Through the work of Age Friendly Ireland and local Age Friendly initiatives, older people are encouraged to have a direct voice in shaping policies, services and facilities that affect their daily lives. The Older Persons’ Council plays a central role in this process, ensuring that the experiences and opinions of older people are represented at local and national level. The elected members of the executive meet regularly to ensure these objectives are met.
Anyone interested in joining the wider Cavan Older Persons’ Council network is encouraged to get in touch. Members receive updates on issues affecting older people, news and information on relevant services and opportunities, and details of events and activities that help people stay connected and engaged.
To join the network, contact agefriendly@cavancoco.ie or telephone 049 4378543.