Latest news with #LocalEnhancementProgramme
Irish Independent
3 days ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Boost for 148 Leitrim community projects as over €110,000 allocated to help with running costs
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, have) announced the successful projects under the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2025. The funding aims to provide capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas. The funding will support local groups with ongoing running costs. Cathaoirleach of Leitirm County Council Councillor Paddy O'Rourke said the funding will greatly benefit the groups across the county. 'I would like to thank the Minister and the Dept of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht for this significant funding allocation of more than €110,000 towards 148 community projects across County Leitrim through the Local Enhancement Programme 2025. "I would also like to warmly congratulate all of the community groups that were successful in securing funding and to thank them for the vital work that they continue to do,' said Cllr O'Rourke. Chief Executive of Leitrim of County Council, Joseph Gilhooly also welcomed the funding. "I welcome this allocation of funding to the county by the Dept .of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht. "This funding will provide much needed financial support to 148 community projects throughout the County. "Community groups are both key contributors and a valued partner in developing our county and enriching the social fabric and the lives of those who live within our county,' said Mr Gilhooly. The Local Enhancement Programme 2025 was launched in November 2024. The funding provides capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas and also current funding to support local groups with ongoing running costs. The Department of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht's Local Enhancement Programme 2025 is administered by the Leitrim Local Community Development Committees, with support from Leitrim County Council.
Irish Independent
14-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Kerry community groups receive over €200k in funding
Kerry has received the fifth highest number in allocations nationally from an overall fund of €7 million. Kerry community projects received €200,456 under the fund in what reflects the strong spirit and diversity of community initiatives in the county. The Local Enhancement Programme provides small-scale funding for projects which range from purchasing IT equipment to minor renovations to buildings. This year's allocation also provided an opportunity for groups to apply for help with their operational costs. The Knocknagoshel Over 55's Services CLG received the highest allocation of €2,972, while the Ballybunion Men's Shed (€2,800), Sneem Development Co-op (€2,000) and Workmen's Rowing Club, Killarney (€2,700) are others that fared well from the distribution of money. Welcoming the announcement, Minister for Children, Disability, Equality Norma Foley said it's an endorsement of the wonderful voluntary work that goes on in local communities. 'The Local Enhancement Programme is very important for our local groups and clubs in Kerry, who are at the heart of our community,' she said. Fianna Fáil Deputy Michael Cahill praised the broad geographical spread of funding that underlines the importance of support reaching every corner of Kerry. 'It is very encouraging to see funding directed to such a wide range of community groups and local projects across the county,' he said. Deputies Michael and Danny Healy-Rae also welcomed the injection of funding for local groups. They said the money will support small-scale capital and operating costs for voluntary groups, community centres, sports clubs, tidy towns groups and other local organisations. 'This funding is about recognising and supporting the people and groups who give their time and energy to make our communities better,' said Michael Healy-Rae. The Local Enhancement Programme was launched by Minister of State Jerry Buttimer and Minister Dara Calleary TD. It will support over 5,400 projects, benefiting almost 4,500 community organisations. The scheme provides small grants aimed at operational costs and capital supports to local groups, particularly those serving disadvantaged areas.
