Extra funding has been made available for Garda Text Alert groups nationwide

More funding has been made available for Garda Text Alert Groups across the country.

Tánaiste Francis Fitzgerald has announced the the funding for the community alert programme has been doubled to €350,000.

It now includes a new €100,000 rebate scheme for local groups registered under the Garda text alert scheme.

Groups in Carlow, Kilkenny and nationwide can now apply to Muintir Na Tire for the rebate by the end of October.

The Garda Text Alert scheme was set up as a crime prevention initiative, working with local Gardaí to protect and support the community.