€350,000 is coming the way of six local areas.
The Community Recognition Fund allocations include €100,000 for Bagenalstown Swimming Club and €50,000 for the Carlow Exchange at Potato Market.
While four in Kilkenny will get between 50 to 52,000 euro each – Bennettsbridge Community Development Association, Knocktopher Development Association, Castlecomer Community Hall and Muckalee Community Centre.
Kilkenny Councillor Pat Fitzpatrick has been reacting to the announcement this morning;
Local breakdown;
Minister Heather Humphreys says;“I’m delighted today to announce €16.5 million for 185 projects right across the country.
“This major investment, under the Community Recognition Fund, will support the upgrade of sports facilities, community centres, walking trails, parks, playgrounds and so much more.
“The projects are diverse in nature – demonstrating the fact that communities have different needs.
“All the projects being funded today are designed to bring communities together and make them more vibrant places to live, work and visit.
“This investment is just the first of a number of tranches that will be announced under the Community Recognition Fund over the coming months.
“This is about giving back and saying ‘thank you’ to communities for what they do week-in, week-out.
“I look forward to seeing the positive impact that this funding will have on the ground in communities all across Ireland.”
While Minister for Community Development and Charities, Joe O’Brien TD, says the government is committed to supporting communities in their efforts in welcoming new arrivals from other countries, noting; “The projects being announced today are only the start of the story for 2024.
“To give community groups and local authorities every opportunity to plan and make best use of these funds, the application process this year is being delivered across 3 phases. The next phase runs up to September 30th and the final phase up to January 31st next year, so there is plenty time to plan and prepare.
“I would encourage community groups to liaise with your local authorities in this regard. I want to commend all of the communities who have worked collaboratively with all stakeholders, I think we can all see what can be achieved when we all put out shoulder to the wheel.”
