Longford County Council announces full programme of events for Men's Health Week 2025

Comprehensive Men’s Health Day on Friday, 13 June at Athletics Centre and The Mall

Press Release: Thursday, 29 May 2025

Longford County Council is proud to announce a comprehensive free programme of events for Men's Health Week 2025, which runs from June 9-15 culminating in a comprehensive Health Day on Friday, 13 June at the Athletics Centre and The Mall. The theme of this year’s Men’s Health Week is ‘Shoulder to Shoulder- Connecting for Health.’

This initiative directly addresses the fact that men are statistically less likely to seek help for physical and mental health issues. By creating an accessible, non-threatening environment, Longford County Council is pioneering a community-based approach to men's wellbeing. The programme of events is a collaborative approach from many sections of the county council and is funded and supported by Longford County Council. This is also one of the events leading up to Your Council Day which takes place towards the end of June and celebrates the role of county and city councils across Ireland. The theme of this year’s Your Council Day is ‘Building Strong Communities.’

At the heart of this programme is Mickey Quinn's groundbreaking 6:30am ‘When No One is Watching’ (WNOW) exercise sessions. These early morning classes create a discreet entry point for men who might otherwise avoid health-focused activities. The concept acknowledges that many men feel uncomfortable exercising in public or discussing mental health challenges. Mickey Quinn is a well-known former senior County Longford footballer, who is widely recognised as one of Longford’s best players. He was nominated for an All-Star in his debut season and also represented Ireland in the International Rules Series.

The week features events across Longford with a special focus on exercise, mental health, and creating spaces for men to connect culminating in a comprehensive Men’s Health Day on Friday, 13 June at the Athletics Centre & The Mall in Longford Town from 10am-3pm. All events are free of charge. For the full programme or to register for specific events, visit the Men’s Health Week Page on longfordcoco.ie.

Morning Activities

  • 6:30am - 7:30am: ‘When No One is Watching’ (WNOW) early morning exercise session with Mickey Quinn
  • 7am-3pm- Triumph over Adversity – Enda Farrell -Portable Ice Bath and compression boots
  • 8am – 9am: ‘Ahead of the Game’ fitness class with Mickey Quinn
  • 10am – 11am: Men's Exercise Class linking with Men's Shed
  • 10am-2.45pm: Free Blood Pressure and Pulse Checks
  • 10am-2pm: Gambling Addiction Support
  • 11am – 12pm: Tai Chi session

Afternoon Activities

  • 12:30pm - 2:30pm: LCC Triathlon Challenge (500m rowing, a 400m relay run (4x100m each) and a 2km spin (stationary bike) four people per team- see registration link on the Men’s Health page of longfordcoco.ie
  • 1pm - 1:30pm: Healthy Lunch & Hydration Break with nutritional talks supported by Sláintecare Healthy Communities, Community Food and Nutrition Worker
  • 2pm – 3pm: Boxercise
  • 2pm – 3pm: Pétanque (similar to boles) at The Mall

Evening Activities 

  • 7pm-Lads and Dads Walking Event through Longford Town- free tea and coffee for participants

Additional Activities 

  • Monday, 9 June: Health and fitness session at Ballymahon Library
  • Wednesday, 11 June: Health and fitness session at Edgeworthstown Library
  • Free health checks and complimentary haircuts at participating libraries on both of these days.

Why Men's Health Week Matters

  • According to the National Office for Suicide Prevention, approximately 75-80% of suicides in Ireland are male.
  • The CSO reports that men in Ireland have a life expectancy about 3.7 years shorter than women.
  • The Irish Men's Health Forum notes that men are less likely to visit their GP, with studies showing only about 30% attending regular check-ups.
  • Mental Health Ireland reports that men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, with only about 1 in 4 men discussing mental health concerns with healthcare providers.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Mark Casey said, "We're proud to support Men's Health Week 2025 with a programme that makes health and wellbeing more accessible to men in our community. The 'When No One is Watching' concept is particularly important as it creates a comfortable space for men to engage with exercise and connect with others."

Chief Executive of Longford County Council Paddy Mahon added, "This initiative addresses the stark statistics around men's health in Ireland. By offering diverse activities, we hope to reach men who might otherwise not engage with health services or physical activity. Longford County Council is proud to be involved in this unique event."

Men's Health Week is an international awareness period that aims to support men and boys to engage in healthier lifestyle choices, be more aware of preventable health problems, and seek help or treatment early. The 2025 theme focuses on mental health in a changing world, recognising the unique pressures men face today.

For the full programme or to register for specific events, visit the Men’s Health Week Page on longfordcoco.ie.

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