Massive €5.8 million in Just Transition funding for five Offaly projects
Largest allocation is €4.9 million for Tullamore Leisure Centre, which will fund major upgrades to the building, including improvements to its mechanical and electrical systems, walls, roof and energy efficiency
THE allocation of over €5.8 million in funding for five projects benefiting Offaly under the EU Just Transition Fund has been welcomed by Fianna Fáil TD Tony McCormack.
The funding was announced by Minister Darragh O’Brien as part of a €36 million investment in 33 projects across the Midlands, supported by the Irish Government and the European Union.
The largest allocation is €4.9 million for Tullamore Leisure Centre, which will fund major upgrades to the building, including improvements to its mechanical and electrical systems, walls, roof and energy efficiency.
A further €324,664 has been allocated for improvements to Tullamore Library, including a new heating system, upgraded lighting and solar panels.
Other projects benefiting from the announcement include:
€264,825 for a geothermal feasibility study examining heating options for approximately 100 social homes and other developments in Tullamore.
€250,000 for the Church Hill Climate Park feasibility study, including environmental assessments, design work and planning documentation.
€100,000 for a feasibility study into a new transport hub at Tullamore Train Station.
Welcoming the announcement, Deputy McCormack said: "Offaly played a major role in powering Ireland for generations. Thousands of families across our county depended on the peat industry and electricity generation, and that contribution to our national economy should never be forgotten.
"When those industries came to an end, it had a significant impact on our communities. The Just Transition Fund was established to recognise that contribution and ensure counties like Offaly benefit from new investment.
"This €5.8 million allocation is very welcome. In particular, the €4.9 million for Tullamore Leisure Centre is a major investment in a facility that is used by people of all ages from across the county.
"The investment in Tullamore Library is also welcome, while the funding for feasibility studies will help progress plans for further improvements to our local infrastructure.
"Offaly has given a great deal to Ireland over the generations, and it is only right that we receive our fair share of investment as we move forward.
"I want to acknowledge Minister Darragh O'Brien and the Government for their commitment to the Midlands, along with the European Union for its continued support through the Just Transition Fund.
"My priority is to ensure that Offaly continues to benefit from this funding and that these investments translate into real improvements for the people of our county."
The funding is being provided through the START Scheme under the EU Just Transition Fund Programme, which supports communities in the Midlands affected by the closure of peat production and peat-fired electricity generation.
The selected projects will now proceed to grant agreement negotiations before funding is finalised.
Also welcoming the investment, Fine Gael’s Deputy John Clendennen said the funding would deliver long-term benefits for communities across Offaly.
“This is a hugely positive announcement for Offaly, particularly the almost €5 million investment in Tullamore Leisure Centre, which is such an important facility for families, schools, sporting organisations and the wider community.
“These investments will help modernise our public facilities, reduce energy costs and support the development of infrastructure that will benefit the county for generations to come.”
Deputy Clendennen also welcomed the funding for the proposed transport hub, highlighting the importance of improving rail connectivity and the need for extended services.
“I have consistently advocated for improved rail services for Tullamore, including additional capacity and later evening trains. This funding is another positive step towards improving public transport infrastructure and strengthening Tullamore’s connectivity.”
Highlighting Offaly’s historic contribution to Ireland’s energy sector, Deputy Clendennen said it was essential that the Midlands continued to benefit from the transition to a low-carbon economy.
“Offaly powered Ireland for generations, and the Just Transition must deliver real benefits for the communities that contributed so much to our national development.