RCDA’s Marina and David kicked off the visit, highlighting the association’s track record of driving local development, community wellbeing, and the sustainable future plans for Rathlin. Discussions highlighted the innovative and community-driven approaches the island has adopted to manage resources, support local initiatives, and build resilience in a unique and sometimes challenging environment.
Our team was particularly interested in how RCDA’s collaborative practices, local leadership, and creative problem-solving could inform wider community development work across Northern Ireland. They openly discussed opportunities for future partnerships, peer learning, and shared ideas that could benefit both Rathlin and the broader NIRN network.
The core of the conversation was Rathlin’s vibrant community-led initiatives. We highlighted one defining success: Rathlins first ever Repair Café back in April and now the possibility of training islanders to launch and operate their own Repair Cafés. This would enable local people to come together, share skills, and work collaboratively to repair and reuse everyday items. Such activities not only reduce waste but also build strong community spirit and resilience.
In addition to the Repair Cafés, we discussed the establishment of a lending library and a range of other resource-sharing initiatives specifically tailored to the unique needs of the Rathlin community.
The visit wrapped up with a firm, positive commitment for continued cooperation with RCDA and, now as part of the NIRN family, we can strengthen our collective voice for sustainable, community-led development. We are thrilled to support RCDA’s essential ongoing work and will work to strengthen ties with Rathlin’s vibrant community!
Pictured: NIRN Community Network Managers with Marina McMullan, Chairperson of Rathlin Development and Community Association and David Quinney Mee, Community Development Manager for RDCA.
