Community groups across Tipperary are being invited to celebrate and showcase their local wetlands, following the appointment of Mr Darragh Kelly as Tipperary’s new Community Water Officer.
Mr Kelly has spent the past number of years working in the Environment Section of Kilkenny County Council and has said he is delighted to take on this new role, supporting communities to protect and enhance local waters and wetlands.
Coming from a farming background, Mr Kelly said he has a strong interest in the outdoors, including fishing and hiking, and is particularly fond of exploring Slievenamon.
World Wetlands Day — 2 February 2026.
This year’s World Wetlands Day will be marked on Monday, 2nd February 2026, the International Day that commemorates the signing of the Ramsar Convention ♦ on Wetlands.
♦ The Ramsar Convention (or Convention on Wetlands) is an International Treaty for wetland conservation, signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, promoting the “wise use” of wetlands for sustainable development, especially for waterfowl habitats.
The 2026 theme is: “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage”, highlighting the links between wetlands, communities, and the knowledge passed down through generations.
Funding now open for World Wetlands Day promotions.
Mr Kelly has confirmed that the Small Grants and Events Scheme 2026 portal opened for applications on Monday, 19th January at 11.00am, specifically for World Wetlands Day promotion.
Groups and organisations are encouraged to make contact if they would like to organise an event to celebrate a local wetland — from guided walks and talks to school visits, clean-ups, wildlife sessions or community information events. Revised scheme guidelines for 2026 are also available.
How to apply.
The information portal is now available HERE, so do get in touch.
Anyone wishing to organise an event or looking for support is invited to contact Mr Kelly directly @ Darragh Kelly, Community Water Officer (Tipperary), Mobile: 085 8333383.
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