A further €50 million has been allocated to the Community Recognition Fund, which was introduced last year to recognise the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland.
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, and Minister of State Joe O’Brien announced the 2024 allocation today for communities that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries.
The announcement brings the total investment under the Community Recognition Fund to €100 million.
The 2023 allocation saw funding of €50 million approved for some 900 projects in cities, towns and villages nationwide.
Local authorities, in collaboration with communities, will be funded to develop projects that will deliver long term benefits to those living in the areas selected.
Projects that will be funded include:
- Development or refurbishment of community or cultural facilities, including play areas, walkways, parks, community/sensory gardens, allotments, and recreational areas
- Development or refurbishment of local club and sports facilities
- Enhancement to school/parish facilities which are open to use by all of the community after school hours
- Purchase of equipment for local clubs, festivals, community events and organisations
- Transport infrastructure such as community vehicles
Minister Humphreys said: “I know communities the length and breadth of the country have really stepped up to the plate in recent months in terms of welcoming families from Ukraine or those seeking asylum from other countries.
“This funding is about recognising the efforts and the generosity that so many communities have shown during what has been a challenging time for our country.”
Local authorities can submit funding proposals to the Department of Rural and Community Development in phases, which will allow them to respond to changing circumstances during the year.
Minister O’Brien added: “The Community Recognition Fund announced today gives local communities across Ireland another opportunity to expand and improve local facilities to continue to meet the needs of communities as they change and develop over time.
“I’d encourage communities to use this funding opportunity to consider projects that will add benefit and help meet local needs in their area.”
The €50 million has been allocated across all local authorities based on the number of new arrivals located there. The full details of the scheme, including funding allocations for each local authority are available here.
Minister Humphreys concluded: “Good progress is being made in the delivery of projects under the initial allocation of €50 million in 2023. These are projects which will provide long term benefits to communities for many years, such as community centre enhancements in Athboy in Meath, a walking trail adjoining the amenity park in Swinford in Mayo; and improvement works in the Family Resource Centre in Gorey in Wexford.
“I would encourage community groups in impacted areas to contact their local authority for more details and to discuss potential projects to be funded under this new round of funding.”
