Kilkenny County Council nominated four outstanding community groups to represent County Kilkenny at the IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026, which celebrate and recognise the exceptional efforts of communities across Ireland in creating vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable places to live, work and visit.
Organised in partnership with Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place Awards, an all island competition, acknowledges the invaluable contribution made by local communities in enhancing people’s quality of life, fostering social inclusion, promoting community wellbeing, and strengthening civic pride.
The four communities nominated by Kilkenny County Council for this year’s awards are Muckalee under the Inclusive Communities Category, Graiguenamanagh under the Population Category (1,000–2,000), Slieverue under the Community Wellbeing Category and Kilkenny Older Peoples Council under the Age Friendly Category.
The judging for this year’s competition took place on the 3rd and 4th of July 2026, with each nominee welcoming the judging panel and showcasing the projects, initiatives and community spirit that make their area and organisations exceptional examples of community development and collaboration.
Muckalee was nominated in recognition of its continued commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of the community. The judging panel commenced at the Muckalee community café and were presented with a showcase of community initiatives, sporting facilities and programmes designed to encourage participation, accessibility and social inclusion across all age groups in the community of Muckalee.
Graiguenamanagh was nominated for its outstanding community development, heritage promotion, environmental initiatives and strong volunteer spirit. The judges were given an opportunity to experience first-hand the vibrant community life in the town and to learn about the many projects that have enhanced the area and contributed to the quality of life for residents, visitors and tourists alike.
Slieverue’s nomination reflects the community’s dedication to promoting health, wellbeing and social connection. During the judging visit, the panel heard about the wide range of initiatives undertaken by local groups and volunteers to support physical activity, mental wellbeing, community engagement and intergenerational participation. The Judges were suitably entertained with local musicians and dancers including the Simply Singing Group.
The Kilkenny Older Peoples Council were nominated in recognition of its significant contribution to supporting older people throughout the city and county, for their many age friendly initiatives and projects representing the voice of the older person in Kilkenny. The judging panel learned about the Older Peoples Council work in promoting active ageing, social inclusion, accessibility and age-friendly initiatives that enhance the quality of life for older citizens across Kilkenny.
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Joe Malone commented, “The Pride of Place competition is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the community spirit, pride, and dedication that exists throughout our county. I would like to sincerely thank everyone who played a part in preparing Slieverue, Graiguenamanagh, Muckalee, and Kilkenny City. Your hard work, commitment, and sense of community are what make these places so special.”
The winners of the IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026 will be announced at a gala awards ceremony later this year, where communities from every county in Ireland will gather to celebrate their achievements and commitment to making their local areas better places to live.
Kilkenny County Council would like to congratulate Muckalee, Graiguenamanagh, Slieverue and the Kilkenny Older Peoples Council on their contribution to the Pride of Place competition and thank the many volunteers, community groups and local organisations who took part.
We wish all four nominees every success in the competition and look forward to them representing County Kilkenny at the national awards ceremony.
