Major funding boost announced for nearly 200 community organisations across Clare

Clare TD Cathal Crowe has welcomed funding for 186 community organisations under the Local Enhancement  Programme (LEP).

The LEP supports community groups with capital funding grants to assist with projects such as repairs, upgrades, equipment and improvement to facilities.

According to Deputy Crowe: "I am delighted to confirm that €183,061 has been allocated to community groups and organisations all around Clare.

"The Local Enhancement Programme recognises the importance of these groups to the social fabric of their communities and gives them a helping hand with buying new equipment or upgrading their existing facilities or resources.

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"I have the pleasure of visiting many of these groups regularly and I see first hand the benefit of, and the good application of, grants like this which they receive. It's what helps pays for the grass to be cut in community residential groups; contributes towards the running costs of community halls; purchases new sports equipment for our many sporting outfits in Clare; and many other uses beside.

"This Government is committed to supporting local communities in positively shaping their future and today's funding is very welcome," he concluded. 

Some of the successful recipients include the Liscannor Community Development Company (€4,748.97), Clare Youth Service (€2,951), Spring Into Song Ennis Choral Festival (€5,198) and the Clare branch of the Irish Red Cross (€4,031). 

The funding for Clare groups came as part of an over €7 million investment in over 5,000 projects nationwide, announced by Minister Dara Calleary and Minister Jerry Buttimer.