New: Government announce €7 million for local community groups
Local groups such as Men's sheds and Women's sheds can avail of aid for energy costs
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD has announced over €7 million in funding for local community groups under the “Department of Rural and Community Development Local Enhancement Programme 2025”.
This funding will consist of €6 million in capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged communities in rural and urban areas.
There will be a particular focus on small capital works/improvements, and the purchase of equipment for community use.
The funding may be used, but is not limited to; improved access for persons with a disability; enhancing community participation for disadvantaged and marginalised groups, and improving energy efficiency of community facilities to reduce ongoing costs.
Pictured: Minister Heather Humphreys at a recent event in Leitrim.
“I am delighted to once again be in a position to provide this funding for communities around the country," Minister Humphrey said.
“Although small in nature, these grants provide a lifeline to many small but vital community groups. I have been privileged to visit many of these groups over the last number of years and have seen first-hand the fantastic work they do and how important these grants are for them and the communities they serve," she said.
“Supporting local communities to shape their future is a key focus of the Government’s rural development policy, Our Rural Future. The funding I am announcing today will benefit every single county and ensure that important small scale, ground-up projects can be delivered by local communities for local communities.
"I would encourage all interested groups to get in touch with their Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) that administers the fund in their area," the Minister finished.
The scheme is designed to ensure local priorities are identified and met, so as to improve and enhance community facilities for all. All funding will be available to a diverse range of community groups including but not limited to Men’s and Women’s sheds/groups, community centres, parish halls and local voluntary groups.
Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Joe O’Brien TD, also welcomed this news.
“Once again, this Local Enhancement Programme funding will provide practical support to community groups at a grassroots level to help them to ensure that they can improve and enhance their facilities and equipment which they need to support their communities," Minister O'Brien.
"Thousands of community organisations, including clubs, youth centres and parish halls, will benefit from this funding ensuring they can continue to provide their valuable services to the people in their areas.”
“I am particularly happy to have reserved funding for community groups to help towards their energy and running costs. It is important for these groups to be able to keep their facilities and groups open and available to their communities. Providing a safe space for attendees to visit and meet peers, chat and work though issues while also helping their community as a whole," he finished.