Ryan heads up Community Call for Cavan
An unprecedented mobilisation of both state and voluntary resources to combat the effects of COVID-19, has been launched in Cavan and across the country.
'The Community Call' is a major initiative that links local and national government with the community and voluntary sectors.It aims to coordinate community activity, direct community assistance to where it is needed, and marshal the volunteering energy of the country.
The immediate focus is on the elderly and the most vulnerable, and mobilising rapid response in every country to make sure everyone is looked after. In the coming weeks the focus will expand to the broader wellbeing of Irish society and how communities can work together to help the country through the COVID-19 crisis.
Speaking at the launch, An Tánaiste Simon Coveney TD said: “We are all finding it very strange to be home and to be keeping away from our family and community. But those that are vulnerable or in need of a bit of help need to know that they are not alone. The government is tapping into the reach of our local authorities in every corner of Ireland as well as the extraordinary dedication of a legion of voluntary groups and charities. For those who need some help, it is there for you.”
Minister for Rural and Community Development, praised the outstanding contribution of the community and voluntary sector to the national effort to address the effects of the COVID-19 crisis.
At National level, Community Call will be overseen by a group from the Department of An Taoiseach, the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, the Department of Rural and Community Development, the Department of Health, and the County and City Management Association.
The Community Call will be overseen and managed in Cavan by Cavan County Council, led by Chief Executive Tommy Ryan, who has been tasked with making this work. Mr Ryan is leading a dedicated community forum to coordinate and connect the wide range of services and supports that are available. Dedicated phone lines are operational: the national number 0818 222 024; local helpline for Cavan is 1800 300 404. A dedicated covidsupport@cavancoco.ie email has also been established.
Chief Executive of Cavan County Council Mr Tommy Ryan said, “We in local government are ideally positioned to roll out the Community Call, and we have already brought together the Cavan COVID-19 Community Forum as part of this initiative.
“As soon as this crisis came upon us, the various community stakeholders and volunteer groups on the ground across Cavan mobilised straight away and commenced a huge effort to look after the most vulnerable in our society.
“Through the Community Call, we will support and help coordinate these efforts to ensure everyone in Cavan has the help they need during this unprecedented crisis. I would encourage anyone who is in need of essential supports such as food or medicine deliveries to call freephone 1800 300 404 or email covidsupport@cavancoco.ie today. Lines are open from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week.”