As community gardens have grown in popularity, so has the need for a network that would link and share knowledge and information. The idea to form a network that would connect community gardeners around the island of Ireland was first muted in Waterford in 2011 and as a result of all the positive feedback, the inaugral meeting took place at The Greenhouse in Dublin in November of the same year, attracting over 50 people from various locations around Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Two more facilitated meetings took place and The Community Garden Network forum finally went live in 2012. It’s aim is to support and promote community gardens in Ireland and Northern Ireland and the network has grown from strength to strength.
Network meetings take place in different venues around the country, approximately every four months and we always aim to include a community garden visit. As a result of some AIB/GIY Funding in 2013, we have been able to offer a workshop element into the events, making them a full day of learning and friendship, networking and information.
The network is operated on a voluntary basis and is a free resource for community gardeners everywhere.