Awarding of €256,000 funding to community centres in Offaly welcomed

COMMUNITY centres in Offaly have been awarded in excess of €256,000 in funding to support upgrade and refurbishment works, a Fine Gael Councillor and General Election Candidate has said.

Cllr John Clendennen said: “This is a really welcome announcement by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, and one which will really benefit community centres in Offaly, which are used by the whole community here.”

“From Barna to Ballycumber and Birr to Clonbullogue, this funding announcement will benefit multiple groups spanning the county. All very worthy causes” Cllr Clendennen added

The Community Centres Investment Fund 2024 was launched in June 2024 to provide investment for upgrade and refurbishments works on existing community centres under two categories:

Category 1 for minor works with grant aid up to €25,000

Category 2 for larger works with grant aid up to €100,000

The successful community centre projects announced today are Category 1 applicants and will receive capital grants of up to €25,000. Over €7.6million is being announced under Category 1. Successful projects under Category 2 will be announced in the coming months.

“Whether it’s Irish dancing lessons for children or art classes for our retired people, our community centres in Offaly have always been a central point in every town and village for people to come together, learn a new skill, practice a hobby or just socialise with others.

“This funding is all about giving our communities a helping hand and making our towns and villages better places to live, work and raise a family. I would also like to thank all our volunteers who work so hard to keep the lights on and facilitate activities in our local community centres – their work is never taken for granted” Cllr Clendennen concluded.