‘This is fantastic news’ - Funding boost for six Kilkenny community groups
The funding, which has been allocated by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, comes under the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF).
Funding of over €5.6 million, which will deliver enhancement and refurbishment works on 279 community centres nationwide has been announced.
Locally, a total of €114,500 has been granted to Kilkenny community groups.
Six Kilkenny applications were successful:
- Urlingford Community Centre (€25,000): Enhancing safety and functionality, purchase of modular stage and equipment.
- The Lakeside shop and tearooms in Windgap (€25,000): Kitchen expansion.
- Ballyfoyle Community Hall ( €23,236): External render repair and protection works.
- Ionad Dara Community Centre in Goresbridge ( €20,923): Centre refurbishment works including solar panels, sanitary ware and equiment.
- Kilnaspic People's Shed in Mooncoin ( €10,341): Provision of car parking spaces and a ramp.
- Mullinavat Community Centre (€10,000): Upgrade of mains electrical supply.
The funding, which has been allocated by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, comes under the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF) which fund small works up to a value of €25,000.
To date, almost €118 million has been approved for projects across the country under the fund.
Chairperson of the Castlecomer Municipal District, Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick, welcomed the news, stating, “It’s a further investment in local communities by government.”
Cllr Fitzpatrick expressed particular delight at the allocation of €23,236 for external render repair and protection works at Ballyfoyle Community Hall.
“Well done to all those involved. It’s been a tremendous journey and this is fantastic news,” the Fianna Fáil councillor said.
Mr Fitzpatrick extended his thanks to the minister and the department, commenting, “communities are at the heartbeat of Ireland.”