County mayor column: County shows its diversity and inclusivity in range of activities

As we enjoy a welcome spell of glorious sunshine across Cork County, it’s clear that summer has truly arrived — and with it comes a vibrant calendar of events, initiatives and opportunities that reflect the best of our community spirit and cultural pride.

In recent weeks, I’ve had the honour of attending and supporting a wide range of activities that show just how diverse, inclusive, and forward-thinking our county is.

Africa Day 

From the celebration of African culture through Cork County Council’s Africa Day programme, to the announcement of our new Cost Rental Scheme in Midleton, to the heritage projects funded through our County Heritage Grant Scheme and the outstanding Brian Lalor Retrospective at LHQ Gallery — each tells its own story, but all share a common theme: investing in people, place, and potential.

Africa Day, marked each year around May 25, gives us all an opportunity to celebrate the richness of African cultures and the important contribution made by people of African descent throughout our communities.

Events this year range from storytelling and drumming workshops in libraries to concerts in our theatres. Performers such as Kiruu and the AHA Storytellers will bring colour, rhythm, and warmth to audiences across the county. These celebrations reflect not just diversity, but unity — and I’m proud to say Cork County Council is part of that national commitment to inclusion.

New homes

While culture and celebration are vital, so too is making sure people have secure, affordable homes. That’s why I’m delighted to announce the opening of applications for a new Cost Rental housing scheme in Midleton.

This development at The Fairways offers 10 high-quality, A-rated homes at rents at least 25% below the local market rate. It’s designed to support individuals and families who are not eligible for social housing but still struggle to meet the cost of private rents. With these homes located close to schools, shops and services, they represent a real step forward in delivering sustainable, affordable housing.

Creativity and cultural heritage are also at the heart of what makes Cork County so special. That’s why Cork County Council is proud to host the Brian Lalor Retrospective Exhibition at the LHQ Gallery this summer. 

A truly remarkable artist and writer, Brian Lalor has made an enormous contribution to Ireland’s artistic life. His printmaking — featuring woodcuts, etchings, and lino engravings — is rooted in Irish life, landscape, and mythology. This exhibition is not just a showcase of his talent, but a celebration of a career dedicated to creativity, culture, and connection.

Heritage

Supporting local heritage is another key priority for us, and this month we announced €52,850 in funding to 33 local projects under the 2025 County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme. 

From conservation assessments and community festivals to local documentaries and historical plays, these projects span our eight Municipal Districts and reflect the pride and passion of heritage volunteers across the county.

Among the projects supported is the restoration of the train mural in Skibbereen — a vivid reminder of our rail past and an example of how history lives on in the everyday fabric of our towns.

All these initiatives — Africa Day, housing, exhibitions, and heritage — may seem quite different, but they are bound together by one thing: a shared commitment to supporting our communities. Whether through housing supports, creative expression, or cultural celebration, Cork County Council is here to make a difference.

I want to thank all those who contribute to these efforts — the volunteers, artists, performers, community workers and council staff. Your energy and enthusiasm keep County Cork vibrant and welcoming.

And as the sunshine continues, I hope everyone takes the chance to get outdoors, explore local events and enjoy all that our county has to offer this summer. From heritage trails to family festivals, exhibitions to community celebrations — it’s an exciting time to live in and love County Cork.