County Louth Misses Out as Minister Humphreys Announces Over €16 Million for 185 Community Projects
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has unveiled a major investment of €16.5 million aimed at supporting 185 community projects across Ireland. Despite this substantial funding, County Louth did not secure any projects in the announcement.
The funding will be allocated to a range of initiatives, including upgrades to sports facilities, community centers, parks, walking trails, and playgrounds. Additionally, the investment supports the purchase of buildings and vehicles for community use. While County Louth did not benefit from this round of funding, neighboring counties have seen significant allocations:
County Meath received €311,567
County Monaghan was awarded €645,378
Minister Humphreys emphasized the importance of this funding in enhancing community infrastructure and services. She noted that the projects announced today represent just the beginning of the year’s support for community development. Minister Joe O’Brien TD, responsible for Community Development and Charities, echoed this sentiment, stressing that the current funding initiative is designed to support communities in integrating new arrivals from other countries.
“The projects being announced today are only the start of the story for 2024,” Minister O’Brien said. “To give community groups and local authorities every opportunity to plan and make the best use of these funds, the application process this year is being delivered across three phases. The next phase runs up to September 30th, and the final phase up to January 31st next year, so there is plenty of time to plan and prepare.”
Community groups and local authorities are encouraged to work together to make the most of these opportunities. Minister O’Brien praised the collaborative efforts of communities and stakeholders, emphasizing the positive outcomes that can be achieved through joint efforts.
For those interested in applying for funding, the Community Recognition Fund (CRF) remains a key resource. Introduced in 2023, the CRF recognizes and supports the efforts of communities in welcoming and assisting new arrivals. The 2023 allocation of €50 million supported approximately 900 projects across the country.
In March 2024, an additional €50 million was allocated specifically for larger projects in cities, towns, and villages hosting Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection and/or International Protection Applicants. This funding targets projects with a minimum grant of €50,000, providing substantial support for community enhancement.
Applications for the current round of funding can be submitted in three phases, with deadlines on May 31st, September 30th, and January 31st, 2025. Local authorities will administer the fund at the county level, and communities are encouraged to engage with their local authorities to develop applications for the upcoming phases.
For more information and to view the details of the 185 projects announced today, visit the document link or download the full document.
As County Louth awaits future opportunities, the announcement highlights a significant commitment to community development nationwide, with ongoing phases of funding to support local initiatives and improvements.
