Kilkenny to get boost of almost €950,000 under Community Recognition Fund

Funding of €948,063 has been confirmed for Kilkenny under the €50 million Community Recognition Fund.

The funding was announced today by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys and Minister of State Joe O’Brien.

Local TD John Paul Phelan has welcomed the funding for the constituency: “This major initiative is the first of its kind. It is designed to specifically support communities across the country that have welcomed and are hosting families and citizens from Ukraine and other countries.

“Among the projects that will be supported under the fund are the refurbishment of local sports clubs and facilities; the upgrade of community facilities such as play areas, walkways, parks and community gardens and the purchase of equipment to benefit local clubs, festivals, music and arts organisations.

“This grant aid will also support the enhancement of school or parish facilities that are open to the wider community after hours or on weekends as well as transport infrastructure such as community vehicles and bus shelters.”

The €50 million has been allocated across all local authorities based on the number of new arrivals located there and will be drawn down over 2023 and 2024.

Projects will be delivered by the local authorities in conjunction with community organisations. The fund aims to support the development of facilities that will be used in the future by all members of the community.

Announcing the €50 million Fund, Minister Humphreys said: “I am delighted to announce the details of this major new investment for communities across Ireland. 

“The funding now being made available will support communities in developing projects ranging from sports clubs, playgrounds and walkways, to community groups in areas such as arts, drama and music. 

“Communities the length and breadth of the country have really stepped up to the plate in recent weeks, opening their homes and facilities to people very much in need. This Fund is recognising the vital role our communities are playing as we continue to deal with many challenges, not least the war in Ukraine.

“I would like to encourage communities to engage directly with their local authorities in the coming weeks to ensure that high quality projects can be delivered, benefitting their towns and villages for years to come.”