Communities from across the Cavan/Fermanagh border region gathered to celebrate the launch of Grassroots Balllyconnell - a new cross-border initiative designed to bring people together through shared cultural, sporting and enterprise activities. 

Funded by the International Fund for Ireland (IFI) under its Communities in Partnership Programme (CiPP) and supported by Cavan County Local Development, the year-long initiative will be delivered at Ballyconnell Community Centre, which will act as the central hub for all activities. 

The Grassroots Ballyconnell programme features a wide range of events and workshops tailored to all age groups and interests, from pickleball and basketball sessions supported by Cavan Sports Partnership, to storytelling and traditional music, and a ‘Young Buds’ schools-based entrepreneurial project designed to foster leadership and creativity among primary school pupils in Ballyconnell, Derrylin and Enniskillen. 

From left: Lorcan Brady, musician; Catherine Ryan, IFI; Stephen O'Hara, Storytelling Educator; Tarragh Donohoe, Chairperson Ballyconnell Community Centre; Laura Brady, Ballyconnell Community Co-Ordinator; Daniel Downey, Cavan County Local Development & Storyteller & Musician Darragh Slacke 

Speaking at the launch event, Anne Conaghan, Board Member of the International Fund for Ireland, said,  

“We’re proud to support a programme that reconnects people—neighbours, generations, and communities—through inclusive and creative grassroots engagement. Ballyconnell Community Centre is the ideal home for this initiative, and it’s fitting that the launch took place in a space so central to community life.” 

“Grassroots Ballyconnell is about more than just activities. It’s about building lasting relationships, encouraging local leadership, and strengthening cross-border connections. With continued support this programme has the potential to become a leading example of how rural border communities can come together and thrive.”