Three sports clubs in north Louth awarded CLÁR funding

Three sports clubs in north Louth are to receive funding as part of the CLÁR (Ceantair Laga Árd-Riachtanais) programme funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, it was announced today by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD.

It is part of a package of almost €5 million in funding to support over 100 sports clubs in rural communities countrywide. The funding is being provided as part of Our Rural Future, the Government’s strategic five-year rural development plan.

The clubs receiving the funding are as follows:

• Cuchulainn Gaels GAC - €44,910 - for construction of accessible changing rooms to include toilets & showers.
• Cooley Kickhams GFC - €50,000 - for upgrade to carpark
• Cooley Kickhams GFC - €14,378 - for extension to and repairs of the existing walking track
• Glenmore Athletics Club - €50,000 - for upgrade and repairs to running track

CLÁR is a targeted investment programme for rural areas that aims to provide funding for small infrastructural projects in designated rural areas. There are designated CLÁR areas in all counties with the exception of Dublin, Kildare and Wexford. 

Welcoming news of the funding, Louth based Senator John McGahon said that: “Fine Gael is committed to delivering for rural Ireland and ensuring stronger, safer communities and this funding will go a long way in supporting rural communities not only in Louth but across Ireland. 

“Volunteers and members of local sports clubs are essential to making our local communities a better place and I’m delighted that Minister Heather Humphreys has announced this funding. 

“Supporters across Ireland will also majorly benefit from this funding, thanks to a particular focus on the upgrade of Spectator Stands so that further seating and shelter can be provided to ensure that everyone can enjoy the games. 

“I’m particularly delighted to see how much funding GAA clubs are receiving. The GAA is at the heart of so many rural areas like the Cooley Pensunula , instilling a strong sense of pride of place and community."

“This funding is being provided as part of Our Rural Future, the Government’s strategic five-year rural development plan which supports a thriving and inclusive rural Ireland", added Senator McGahon.