Huge boost for Kilkenny community projects with Clár funding

There has been a warm welcome across County Kilkenny, this morning, for massive funding of community projects under the clár programme.

A total of €364,946 will be divided between six projects in Kilkenny - in Callan, Ballyfoyle, Ballyragget, Windgap, Killinaspick, Hugginstown.

Funding has been announced for:

St. Brendan's National School, Muckalee – Pitch development – €65,000

Lisdowney GAA – Construction of new MUGA and ball wall – €65,000

Coolagh Community Hall, Callan – Hall and kitchen upgrade – €77,022

Moin Ruadh National School, Hugginstown – New MUGA, carpark area & sensory garden – €100,000

 Killanaspick Lighting Project – Roadway lighting – €22,500

 GAA, Windgap – Lawnmower for community area – €35,424

“This funding will make a real difference in people’s lives, helping to improve local facilities, create safer and more accessible spaces, and bring communities closer together," said Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere.

“It helps us create strong, resilient, and vibrant communities where families can thrive, young people can grow and stay close to home, and local clubs and schools can continue to flourish."

Deputy John McGuinness  highlighted the importance of continued support for rural development: “CLÁR funding is vital for sustaining and growing our rural communities. Whether it's upgrading a local hall, enhancing sports facilities, or improving public amenities, these investments help ensure that rural areas remain vibrant, attractive and inclusive places to live.”

Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick said the funding supports vital projects in communities that suffered deprivation for many years, but are now seeing the positive effects of Clár funding.

He had a special mention for those in the communities who put so much work into the funding applications.

With today’s announcement, over €14 million has now been allocated under the CLÁR Programme this year, the highest annual amount since the scheme was reintroduced in 2016.