Minister Heather Humphreys has announced over €2 million for community and sports projects in Cavan and Monaghan.
The funding for Cavan is part of a €50 million investment announced by the Minister nationwide known as the Community Recognition Fund.
This major new initiative will see funding provided and specifically aimed at communities that have welcomed families and citizens and Ukraine and other countries.
In total, Cavan will receive almost €1.2 million in funding for projects, while Monaghan will receive over €881,000.
According to the local Minister, Cavan County Council and Monaghan County Council will now work with local communities with a focus on those who have "really stepped up to the plate," in terms of providing accommodation.
Among the projects that will be supported under the fund include:
- The refurbishment of local sports clubs and facilities
- The upgrade of community facilities such as play areas, walkways, parks and community gardens
- The purchase of equipment to benefit local clubs, festivals, music and arts organisations
- The enhancement of school or parish facilities that are open to the wider community after hours or on weekends
- 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.
The Fund aims to support the development of facilities that will be used in the future by all members of the community.
Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said, "I am delighted to announce the details of this major new investment for communities across Ireland. And I’m particularly pleased to see that Cavan and Monaghan have secured combined allocations of over €2 million.
"We all know there are communities in Cavan and Monaghan that have really stepped up to the plate since Russia launched its brutal war in Ukraine.
"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.
"What this is about is my Department wanting to reward communities that have gone above and beyond, opened their homes and facilities and welcomed families who have gone through desperate situations.
"So I would like to encourage communities in Cavan and Monaghan to engage directly 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.”
She continued, "The projects that will be supported are those that will benefit all members of our communities, young and old.
"It could be funding to develop a playground or park, or perhaps a community centre.
"Or it could be used in terms of transport infrastructure such as community vehicles or bus shelters.
"Sports clubs or groups that champion the arts and music could also benefit – I want the Councils to be as flexible and work closely with my Department to deliver high quality projects."
The Department has published the full details of the scheme (including funding allocations) online, and applications are now being sought from local authorities on the basis of engagement with local communities and clear targeting of proposed projects to areas with the highest level of need.
