Rural Economy

Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys announces the 26 towns to benefit from €2.6 million fund to enhance streetscapes and shopfronts

Each town to receive €100,000 as part of the Streetscape Initiative
Projects to include upgrades to building facades, artwork, murals, lighting, street furniture and canopies
Investment to help make our rural towns more colourful, vibrant and attractive places
Local authorities to begin advertising immediately; Local businesses and retailers encouraged to apply

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has today announced the 26 towns and villages that will benefit from a €2.6 million fund to support the enhancement of streetscapes and shopfronts.

Under the Streetscape Enhancement Initiative, retailers and property owners will be provided with grants that they can use to improve the facades of their buildings, carry out artwork or install features such as street furniture or canopies.

The overall purpose of the Scheme is to give our towns and villages a facelift and make them more attractive places to live, work or visit.

Minister Humphreys today announced the 26 towns that have been selected for funding with each local authority to receive €100,000 as part of the Initiative.

The Minister today urged businesses, property owners and retailers in the 26 towns to apply to their local authority to avail of funding.

The 26 towns due to receive the funding were selected by each local authority in consultation with local businesses and community groups.

Local authorities will manage the initiative locally and will be advertising for applications in the coming weeks.

The initiative is a key part of Our Rural Future and will make our rural towns and villages more vibrant and attractive places to live, work and visit.

The types of projects that could be supported include:

Strategic collaboration between property owners to paint buildings and/or shopfronts in vibrant colours
Upgrade or restoration of historic / traditional shopfronts
Provision of street planting, shrubbery, trees and flowers boxes
Installation of canopies
Murals/public artwork

ENDS

Contact:

The Department of Rural and Community Development Press Office

01-7736843 / 087-1734633

[email protected]

Photo Caption:

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, standing in front of the Patrick Kavanagh Mural in Carrickmacross, County Monaghan. The project was funded under the Department’s Streetscapes Initiative.

The towns where this measure will be delivered are as follows:

County Council	Town
Carlow County Council	Bagenalstown
Cavan County Council	Ballyconnell
Clare County Council	Lisdoonvarna
Cork County Council	Bandon
Donegal County Council	Lifford
Fingal County Council	Rush
Galway County Council	Tuam
Kerry County Council	Tarbert
Kildare County Council	Athy
Kilkenny County Council	Callan
Laois County Council	Abbeyleix
Leitirm County Council	Carrick On Shannon
Limerick County Council	Foynes
Longford County Council	Granard
Louth County Council	Omeath
Mayo County Council	Ballyhaunis
Meath County Council	Trim
Monaghan County Council	Clones
Offaly County Council	Clara
Roscommon County Council	Ballinlough
Sligo County Council	Enniscrone
Tipperary County Council	Tipperary Town
Waterford County Council	Tallow
Westmeath County Council	Kilbeggan
Wexford County Council	Enniscorthy
Wicklow County Council	Newtownmountkennedy

August 30, 2022

AIB Have Abandoned More Farming and Rural Customers

IFA Farm Business National Chair Rose Mary McDonagh says the banking sector is again abandoning the farming community and rural Ireland in the wake if AIB’s decision to withdraw cash services in 70 branches across the country.

The recent announcement that 40% will no longer be offering cash and cheque services at the counter, or through machines inside the branch by 21st October. No form of cash transactions including notes, coins, cheques, foreign exchange, bank drafts; drop safes; night safes or external ATM’s will be available at these branch locations. When you add this to the already cashless AIB branches, that’s more than half of the 170 AIB branch network that will be cashless in the coming months.

“At what point does a bank become irrelevant? AIB must be sailing close to the wind at this stage for Irish farmers and rural dwellers,” Rose Mary McDonagh said.

AIB’s reasoning for this is reduced demand for cash and cheque services, and the huge rise in digital banking.

“How else could demand be anything other than down with Covid-19 lock-downs gripping the country for the last number of years and the Banks closing branches or withdrawing services left, right and centre,” the IFA Farm Business National Chair added.

“It just suits their wider agenda and if past history tells you anything the move is probably only a precursor to eventual branch closures, which must not be allowed happen,” she said.

“The Central Bank, and indeed Government given that AIB is a majority state-owned bank, need to intervene now to protect economic activity and the social fabric of rural towns, villages and its citizens.”

“Offloading bank services to An Post just isn’t acceptable. Don’t get me wrong, having An Post and the Credit Union’s there to pick up the pieces as AIB abandon rural communities indeed certainly helps, but many of their offices just aren’t set up for traditional banking interactions,” she said.

Significant investment and added resources will be needed to more fully support the farming community, and I’m not only talking here in terms of capital investment in their infrastructure/network to facilitate more secure/private financial transitions, but also improved financial offering to the SME market and in turn a competitive nature.

“There is huge financial pressure, uncertainty and worry among farmers at the minute. Farmers across all sectors are being hit by an array of spiralling input costs, which are eroding already low margins for most. Farmers need to know that their financial provider is there for them when needed and that they have a range of low-cost finance options to meet their personal and business financial needs.”

“In the past, farmers could rely on localised in-branch knowledge and expertise. Now, you’d hardly know anyone in the bank. Bank officials don’t know farmers or understand their business either. If you are not on hold on the phone for hours, your driving miles to your nearest branch now and this is unacceptable.”

“The diminished level of competition, and indeed traditional service provision, is a particular cause of concern – particularly among our most elderly and vulnerable members. Banking is a hassle now for many,” Rose Mary McDonagh concluded.

Ends.

July 21, 2022

New Voucher Scheme for Remote Working Hubs goes live

At least 10,000 hot desk days to be provided free of charge
Register for your vouchers at ConnectedHubs.ie

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, recently announced that the Connected Hubs Voucher Scheme has gone live.

At least 10,000 hot desk working days will be provided free of charge over the course of the Scheme, which is aimed at both existing hub users, as well as those accessing hub facilities for the first time.

It is intended that the scheme will run over two phases. Phase one will run from now until August 31st with the second phase starting in September and expected to run into early 2023.

Initially, the first phase sees three vouchers been credited to the accounts of all registered ConnectedHubs.ie users, with each voucher redeemable for a day’s hot-desk working in participating hubs.

Anybody wishing to register for their free vouchers can do so online at www.connectedhubs.ie or via the ConnectedHubs mobile app.

Minister Humphreys said:

“The census figures released last week show population growth in every county with some of the largest increases happening in rural counties like Longford and Leitrim. This bucks previous trends where we have seen some rural counties experience population decline.

“The fact is there are now more people living and working in rural Ireland than ever before.

“Through the implementation of Our Rural Future and the continued drive towards remote working, I want to ensure we continue these positive trends for the benefit of our rural communities.

“The Connected Hubs Voucher Scheme will allow people to try out their local hub for free and I believe many will see it is a much better option for them than working from the kitchen table or facing a long commute.

“They may also decide that the hubs in our wonderful regional towns and villages would make the option of relocating, or moving home, a viable one.”

Ends

Contact:

The Department of Rural and Community Development Press Office

01-773 6843 / 087-1734633

[email protected]

June 28, 2022

New €15 million Community Centre Fund

Grants of between €10,000 and €300,000 available for upgrade and refurbishment works to Community Centres

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, recently announced a new €15 million capital fund to support community groups for the upgrade and refurbishment of Community Centres. This is an investment in both rural and urban communities across the Country.

The Community Centres Investment Fund will support community groups with the upgrade and development of their Community Centre facilities.

Funding will be available under 3 Categories with grants of between €10k and €300K available:

Category 1: Small scale projects/improvements to facilities – €10,000 to €25,000.

Category 2: Larger scale projects – €25,001 to €100,000.

Category 3: Major projects- €100,001 to €300,000.

Applications under Category 2 and 3 must include a minimum contribution of 5% of the total project costs from the applicants own funds.

Funding is available for capital works such as: –

Works to improve communal facilities such as kitchen and toilet facilities
Energy retrofitting, new windows / doors / heating systems
Upgrades to lighting systems and stage areas
Works to address safety concerns, including as a result of fire safety audits
Works to improve disability access
Improvements to assist in providing additional or better services to the community such as Meals for the Elderly & youth facilities
Works to develop Community Centres as Social Hubs through the development of Community Cinemas, Youth Hubs and Community Libraries
Essential maintenance works, repairs to roof, etc

There will be a two-stage application process with applicants asked to register their organisation in advance of the formal application process going live.

Registration will open on Tuesday 3^rd May 2022, applicants need to register as ‘users’ on the portal in advance of the application process opening on Tuesday 7^th June 2022. The closing date for applications is Thursday 14^th July 2022.

The Department will be hosting a number of online information events in May and June 2022 to provide guidance in relation to the application process and details will be released in due course.

Guidelines and a sample application form are now available at www.gov.ie/drcd.

Community Groups are urged to familiarise themselves with the application process and criteria well in advance of submitting their application.

Announcing the funding today, Minister Humphreys said:

“Community Centres are at the heart of every community in Ireland, rural and urban.

“We need places for people to meet up, to play sport and engage in all sorts of activities whether it is meals for the elderly, indoor soccer or basketball, or providing a space for the local dramatic society to perform.

“This new fund is about supporting them to carry out vital upgrade works as well as enhancing the services and amenities they can provide to persons of all ages in their community.

“I am encouraging all community groups to look at this fund and think about how they can use it to improve their own local parish hall or community centre. Do you need new windows or doors? Does the stage or sound system need to be upgraded? Could you look at developing space for a Youth Hub or Community Cinema?

“Community Centres are all about bringing people together in a locality. As Minister, I want to ensure Community Centres continue to be at the heart of our local parishes, towns and villages.

Also welcoming the Funding, Minister of State Joe O’Brien TD said:

“The newly announced Community Centres Investment Fund, will play a large part in supporting the development of Community Centres throughout the country both in rural and urban areas, allowing people to engage with their communities and the supports available. That is why I am committed to supporting the Community & Voluntary sector to maximise its impact in communities throughout Ireland.”

ENDS

Contact:

The Department of Rural and Community Development Press Office

076-1006843 / 087-1734633

[email protected]

April 26, 2022

Corncrake LIFE: new €5.9m EU-funded conservation project aims to deliver a 20% increase in Corncrake population

A new €5.9m EU-funded LIFE project overseen by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage was launched in Gort a Choirce in Co. Donegal last Friday March 25^th by Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan TD and Minister of State with responsibility for land use and biodiversity at the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine Pippa Hackett TD. The project aims to revive the fortunes of the corncrake and ensure it remains a part of rural landscapes for years to come.

The project team will operate at coastal and island locations in Donegal, Mayo and Galway as well as associated farmland. Over a five-year period, Corncrake LIFE will work collaboratively with farmers and landowners to improve the landscape for the highly endangered bird. Measures will includes creating and maintaining areas of early and late cover, wildlife friendly mowing of grass, provision of refuge areas during meadow harvesting and incentivising later cutting dates. By the end of the five year project, the aim is to deliver a 20% increase on the 2018 population of Corncrake recorded in Ireland.

Locally-based field officers will provide guidance, direction and support to landowners while community engagement officers will work with stakeholders to establish the corncrake as an asset to the areas it frequents. Knowledge exchange groups and targeted schools programmes will be utilized to highlight the needs of the corncrake and create awareness of its endangerment.

The project is collaborating with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology, Údarás na Gaeltachta and Fota Wildlife Park and will explore innovations such as flushing bars fitted to tractors to scare birds away from mowers, thermal imaging drones to find nests, and passive acoustic monitoring using high-tech microphones in an attempt to help locate the highly elusive birds.

Corncrake is a species listed for special protection under Annex 1 of the EU Birds Directive. Once synonymous with the Irish countryside, the population of Corncrake has declined by 85% since the 1970s, with a similar decrease in range, meaning that the species is now effectively confined to Connacht and Donegal, including offshore islands. Supporting Corncrake in these remaining strongholds is critical to the survival of this species in Ireland. Only 188 calling male corncrakes were recorded across Ireland in 2021.

Speaking at the launch Minister Noonan said:

‘The call of the corncrake was once a ubiquitous sound in meadows and grasslands across the island of Ireland. However, rapid changes to farming practices in the 1970’s spelled doom for the bird. The award of this funding demonstrates the ongoing importance of the EU LIFE programme in supporting conservation projects that have a regional or local focus, particularly in rural or peripheral areas. This funding will allow my Department, working in conjunction with stakeholders across Government and the communities in question, to put measures in place to help secure the future of this species, which remains a high conservation priority at a national and European level’.

Minister Hackett added:

“Given the fact that the Corncrake relies so much on habitats used for agricultural reasons, I am delighted that the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is a key partner in the Corncrake LIFE project. My Department’s involvement reflects our increasing awareness that we need a more a cooperative approach to agri-ecology in our landscape. I was delighted to be able to secure additional funding recently for the results-based element of the Corncrake LIFE project. The use of scorecards to help steer and inform farmers as to what is on their lands is a very practical way of helping to advise farmers how to manage their practices to the benefit of the environment.”

Dr. John Carey of the National Parks and Wildlife Service who manages the project said:

“The efforts will focus primarily on a combination of habitat creation and restoration, although some new and innovative approaches to corncrake conservation will be explored. The project will be developing knowledge exchange groups with farmers and advisors to share information on how to create and maintain high quality corncrake habitats and ensure that landowners can maximise their potential to receive rewards under the results-based pilot scheme.”

ENDS

Notes

Corncrake is listed as a protected species on Annex I of the Birds Directive. The Corncrake’s breeding range extend from Ireland to Asiatic Russia in the northern hemisphere. The Corncrake winters in southern and eastern Africa, migrating northwards to arrive on its breeding grounds from early April onwards and departing again in August and September. Due to the large decreases in both numbers and range, it is on the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland (BoCCI) list.

Corncrakes require managed habitat throughout the breeding season. Corncrakes require the cover of tall vegetation (>20cm) and are strongly associated with meadows which are traditionally harvested once a year in late summer, where they nest and feed. Annual cutting creates a sward with an open structure, which is easy for the birds to move through, but harvesting means they must find alternative cover adjacent to meadows later in the season. Farming therefore plays a key role in the establishment, maintenance and conservation of Corncrake habitat.

For more information on the project you can contact [email protected] or following them on Twitter @CorncrakeLIFE

March 28, 2022

€150m Package of Supports for Rural Communities

Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys unveils €150 million package of supports for rural communities

New €15 million fund to upgrade and refurbish community centres
Major focus on Remote Working through initiatives such as Connected Hubs and Town and Village Renewal Scheme
Rural Regeneration and Development Fund to tackle vacancy and dereliction
Significant investment in our walkways, trails, rivers and lakes under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Fund
Over 300 stakeholders attend special online webinar to hear full details of rural funding schemes
Unprecedented Investment underpinned by the Our Rural Future and Town Centre First Policies
Calendar of all Funding Schemes published to allow Community Groups to plan ahead
Focus on ambitious projects which make a lasting impact to Communities

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, recently outlined a package of over €150 million designed to transform rural towns, villages and communities throughout 2022.

New Community Centre Fund

This new capital Fund will invest €15 million in the upgrade and refurbishment of community buildings across the country so that thousands of people of all ages can benefit. Under the Fund groups and organisations based in both rural and urban communities can apply for grants ranging from €10,000 to €300,000.

Application forms will be available online in the coming weeks

Announcing the new initiative, Minister Humphreys said:

“If the Pandemic taught us one thing, it’s that we all have discovered the true meaning of ‘community’.

“That’s why I am delighted today to announce the new ‘Community Centres Investment Fund 2022.

“I am making available €15 million which will support the refurbishment and upgrade of community buildings across the country.

“Does your local Community Centre or Parish Hall need an upgrade or facelift?

Does your local community need financial support to carry out fire safety or other necessary repair works? Then this Fund is designed to support you.

“The new Fund will provide grants for small and large-scale projects and help us to provide focal points for communities as they come back together. I will publish details on how local community groups can apply for this funding later this month”

Focus for 2022

Regeneration projects in rural areas that focus on economic growth, combat dereliction and breathe new life into town centres. The ‘Boyle 2040 Project’ was given as a good example of the type of project that could be replicated. Boyle 2040 was previously allocated €4.3 million under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. The project shows how regeneration funding can be accessed if a locally driven tailored plan is developed;
Remote Working and connectivity. This will include further developing the Connected Hubs Network for remote working, adding to the existing 900 free WiFi4EU hotspots around the country, bringing more publicly accessible Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) online.
Outdoor Amenities. A continued focus on investing in our unique amenities such as our walkways, trails, lakes, mountains, blueways and greenways. Under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, there will be unprecedented investment in outdoor tourism – supporting activities such as kayaking, cycling, mountaineering, surfing and paragliding.
Projects that help communities to bounce back from the pandemic by providing focal points for community activities. This will be done under the likes of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and the new Community Centre Investment Fund.

“The capital funding programmes outlined today, including the newly announced Community Centres Investment Fund, are complemented by a suite of ongoing and planned current funded programmes which play a large part in supporting those living in communities, and in many cases ensuring that it is possible for people to engage with these capital supports. There is little point in having great infrastructure if there are not the people using those facilities to deliver the many community & voluntary programmes and schemes across the country. That is why I am committed to supporting the Community & Voluntary sector to maximise its impact in communities throughout Ireland.”

Timetable for rural and community investment programmes

Rural Development Schemes

2022 Open

2022 Closing

Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF)

Supports large-scale, ambitious projects which can achieve sustainable economic and social development in rural areas.

More information available at https://www.gov.ie/en/service/05bfe-rural-regeneration-and-development-fund/?referrer=http://www.gov.ie/en/service/c5849b-rural-funding/?section=rural-regeneration-and-development

Category 1 – currently open (Large-scale capital projects which are ready to commence on the date of application).

Category 2 – To open in August

(Seed capital funding for

strategic, large-scale projects)

Closes on 29th April

Category 2, closes in Q 4

Ceantair Laga Árd-Riachtanais (CLÁR)

Provides funding for small-scale infrastructural projects in rural areas.

Measure 1: Developing Community Facilities & Amenities (MUGAs, Playgrounds, etc)
Measure 2: Mobility, Cancer Care and Community First Responders Transport
Measure 3: “Our Islands”

More information available at https://www.gov.ie/en/service/c5849b-rural-funding/?section=small-scale-rural-projects-clar

Opened 24th February

Measure 1 & Measure 3, close on 6th May

Measure 2, closes on 8th April

Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS)

Provides funding for the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure. (Adventure Tourism type projects, Blueways, Walking Trails, Boardwalks, etc)

Measure 1 for small scale projects requiring funding of up to €30,000,
Measure 2 for medium scale projects with funding of up to €200,000,
Measure 3 for large scale projects seeking funding of up to €500,000, and
Project Development Measure funding of up to €50,000 for development costs for strategic large scale projects.

More information available at https://www.gov.ie/en/service/d14e1-outdoor-recreation-infrastructure-scheme/?referrer=http://www.gov.ie/en/service/c5849b-rural-funding/?section=outdoor-recreation-infrastructure-scheme

Opened 18th February

Measure 1 & Project Development Measure to close on 19th April

Measure 2 & Measure 3 to close on 25th May

Town and Village Renewal Scheme Connected Hubs Call

Development of remote working facilities joining the National Connected Hubs Network

More information available at https://www.gov.ie/en/service/16b47-connected-hubs-fund/?referrer=http://www.gov.ie/en/service/c5849b-rural-funding/?section=connected-hubs-fund

Opened 21st February

Closes on 4th April

Local Improvement Scheme

Provides funding to help local authorities carry out improvement works on private and

non-publicly maintained roads

More information available at

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/b03384-local-improvement-scheme-lis/?referrer=http://www.gov.ie/en/service/c5849b-rural-funding/?section=local-road-improvement

Allocations to Local Authorities in March

Managed by Local Authorities

Town and Village Renewal Scheme – Streetscapes

Support the enhancement of streetscapes and shopfronts

Information available when launched

Scheduled to open end of March

Managed by Local Authorities in consultation with communities, town teams and businesses

Town and Village Renewal

Scheme

Designed to rejuvenate small rural towns and villages. (Regeneration of old buildings, development of town parks, etc)

More information available at

https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/01125e-town-and-village-renewal-scheme/

Scheduled to open in April

Closes end of June

Social Enterprise Schemes

2022 Open

2022 Closing

Dormant Accounts Fund Social Enterprise – Capital Supports

Provides capital grants for the scaling up of social

Enterprises

More information on https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/624c74-social-enterprise/#funding-and-supports-for-social-enterprises

Scheduled to open in early May

Closes in late June

Community Schemes

2022 Open

2022 Closing

Community Centres Investment

Fund

An annual capital grants programme for the maintenance, improvement and upkeep of community centres.

More information on launch

Scheduled to open in March

Category 1 closes on 30th June

Category 2 & 3 close on 31st July

Empowering Communities Fund

A new targeted scheme to address area based disadvantage

More information on launch

Scheduled to open end April

Community Activities Fund

Small scale grants to assist community groups

More information on launch

Operated by LCDCs

Closing dates vary – contact your LCDC

March 23, 2022

€15 million Fund to support Outdoor Adventure Activities

Outdoor Recreation and Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) to provide major boost to rural tourism
€15 million fund to develop our mountains, lakes, beaches, bogs, forest walks, blueways, greenways and bridleways
Focus on supporting adventure activities such as hiking, mountaineering, kayaking, swimming and cycling
Funded in partnership with Fáilte Ireland

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has launched a major €15 million fund that will support dozens of outdoor adventure projects across the country.

The 2022 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) will see the development of natural amenities such as our mountains, lakes, beaches, bogs, walkways, greenways and blueways.

The Scheme, which saw its funding increased by Minister Humphreys as part of the Budget, will place a particular focus on developing adventure tourism in Rural Ireland.

It will support activities such as hiking, mountaineering, kayaking, swimming and cycling, which were especially popular among families throughout the Pandemic.

Today’s announcement builds on the commitment under “Our Rural Future” to continuing the investment in infrastructure that caters for the growth in both local and international outdoor adventure tourism.

The projects that will be supported under ORIS are designed to benefit the health and wellbeing of the communities in which they are located.

The 2022 scheme will provide investment ranging from €30,000 for small scale projects and up to €500,000 for large scale projects. This is an alteration on last year’s scheme, which provided funding ranging from €20,000 instead of €30,000.

The Scheme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development in partnership with Fáilte Ireland and projects applications will be accepted under the following Measures:

Measure 1 for small scale projects requiring funding of up to €30,000,
Measure 2 for medium scale projects with funding of up to €200,000,
Measure 3 for large scale projects seeking funding of up to €500,000, and
Project Development Measure funding of up to €50,000 for development costs for strategic large scale projects

Examples of activities which applicants should have in mind when submitting applications for the 2022 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) include:

Land-Based	Water-Based	Air-Based
Walking	Canoeing/ Kayaking/SUP	Paragliding
Hillwalking/Hiking	Rowing	Hang-gliding
Leisure Cycling	Open Water Swimming including Tidal Pools
Mountain Biking	Surfing
Equestrian Trails	Coasteering
Trail/Off-road Running	Wind surfing/Kite Surfing
Orienteering	Sailing
Bouldering, Scrambling, Rock Climbing, Mountaineering	Diving

The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2022, provides funding as follows:

Measure 1 –
- Small scale repair/development/promotion and marketing.
- Funding of up to €30,000 at a 90% rate of aid.
- Maximum of 7 applications can be submitted by each Local Authority.
- Maximum of 3 applications (increased from 2 in 2020) can be submitted by each Local Development Company.
Measure 2 –
- Medium scale repair/upgrade and new trail/amenity development.
- Funding of up to €200,000 at a 90% rate of aid.
- Maximum of 3 applications can be submitted by each Local Authority.

Measure 3 –
- Large scale repair/upgrade and new strategic trail/amenity development
- Funding of up to €500,000 at a 90% rate of aid
- Local Authorities and State Bodies can submit 1 application each under this Measure.

Project Development Measure –
- Detailed development of projects which would enable them to reach a standard for application under Measure 2 or 3 of ORIS.
- Local Authorities and State Bodies can submit two application each under this Measure.

Full details are available in the Scheme Outline available https://www.gov.ie/en/service/d14e1-outdoor-recreation-infrastructure-scheme/

February 18, 2022

Community Peatlands initiatives to benefit from €500k scheme

Community Peatlands initiatives to benefit from €500k scheme

Grant funding doubled by Minister Noonan
25 projects benefited last year

Community projects on bogs and peatlands all over the country are being encouraged to apply for up to half a million euro in community engagement funding from the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan T.D., recently announced that applications are open for the Peatlands Community Engagement Scheme for 2022.

This is a competitive scheme administered by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with a total fund of €500,000 available in 2022 – the largest allocation of funding to date, and double the allocation of 2021.

The scheme seeks to encourage local peatland communities, local groups, local schools and interested parties to engage in the conservation and revitalisation of raised and blanket bogs, particularly protected bogs, and fens and to promote public engagement with and awareness of our natural heritage and environment.

Applications are now invited for a diverse range of peatland initiatives with a community benefit from events, education programmes, conservation management plans, restoration measures, feasibility studies, public amenity and recreational projects to invasive species and fire control measures. Applicants with an interest in local history and awareness of the importance of peatlands are being encouraged to apply. It is also hoped that schools will apply for funding. Last year, an Offaly School received €20,000 to reinstate a boardwalk on a local raised bog.

The Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan T.D., commented:

“I’m delighted to announce the largest allocation of funding to date for this scheme. This year, for the first time, projects relating to fens are eligible for funding as well as raised and blanket bog areas. Ireland’s peatlands which include raised bogs, blanket bogs or fens are special and unique places and play an important role in contributing to our biodiversity, sense of place and well-being. I thank the community groups who have participated in this scheme so far and encourage all schools, peatland community and voluntary groups to check out the funding available this year.”

25 projects qualified for funding in 2021. Some of the projects that received funding include:

Connolly Tidy Villages, Co. Clare received €5,144 to continue the development of its bog walk, including erecting a birdwatch hut and signage, the removal of Japanese Knotweed from the looped bog walk and raise awareness by holding bog walks during the year.
St. Brendan’s Community School, Co. Offaly, €20,000 to replace an existing wooden trackway which was previously installed by students with a recycled plastic one at Killaun Bog looped walk.
Galway’s Living Bog, Mountbellew, Co Galway received €20,000 for a looped bog walkway and interpretive facilities at a community building close to Carrownagappul Bog SAC.
Birdwatch Ireland, Co. Wicklow received €10,000 to undertake an assessment of breeding birds on raised bog Special Area of Conservation sites in the midlands (Ferbane Bog SAC, Mongan Bog SAC, Moyclare Bog SAC, Ardagullion Bog SAC and Killyconny Bog SAC), which were part of the EU LIFE programme funded ‘Living Bog’ Project. From the survey findings a video was produced on the breeding birds on each site and a scientific paper undertaken on the breeding birds of these raised bogs.
The award-winning Kilteevan Tidy Towns Group in Co. Roscommon, received €3,500.00 to publish Cloonlarge Loop Walk Biodiversity Calendar 2022.

Successful applicants of 2022 funding will be awarded funding to support a maximum of 75% of the project eligible costs with a maximum grant of €25,000. Further details of the scheme are available at www.npws.ie.

Ends

Note for Editor

Details of the Terms and Conditions of the Scheme and Application Form needed to apply are available at this link: https://www.npws.ie/peatlands-and-turf-cutting/peatlands-community-engagement-scheme-funding-2022

Closing date for submission of applications is 4pm, Friday, 11 February 2022

January 20, 2022

Ministers Humphreys and O’Brien announce €9 million Fund to support community groups impacted by COVID-19

‘Fund to provide small grants for community groups impacted by the Pandemic’
Facilities such as community centres, men’s and women’s sheds, parish halls and youth centres to be supported
Supporting community groups a key focus of ‘Our Rural Future’

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Joe O’Brien TD, have today announced a €9 million fund to support community groups impacted by COVID-19.

The Community Activities Fund will support groups, particularly in disadvantaged areas, with their running costs such as utility or insurance bills, as well as with improvements to their facilities.

Groups will also be able to use the funding to carry out necessary repairs and to purchase equipment such as tables and chairs, tools and signage, laptops and printers, lawnmowers, canopies and training equipment.

The once-off fund will be allocated under the Department’s Community Enhancement Programme and will be administered locally by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs).

Announcing the funding today, Minister Humphreys said:

“This funding is about giving a helping hand to our local groups and clubs, which have continued to serve their community during COVID-19.

“These grants may be small in nature, but they help thousands of community organisations, clubs, men’s and women’s sheds, youth centres and parish halls.

“I would encourage all interested groups to get in touch with their Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) that administers the programme in their area.

“Supporting local communities to shape their future is a key focus of the Government’s new rural development policy, Our Rural Future. The funding I am announcing today will ensure that important work can continue to be delivered by communities on the ground and I’m delighted that every single county will benefit.”

Also announcing the funding today, Minister O’Brien said:

“This past year has, once again, shown the importance of a vibrant Community and Voluntary sector. The efforts of local community groups & volunteers throughout the pandemic has been immense and this funding will help to provide practical support to smaller community groups and facilities at a grassroots level across the country.

“I hope that this will continue to help foster and grow the community spirit that is so evident across Ireland”

In order to allow flexibility, the Department is not setting a national closing date, but will allow each LCDC to set its own, to best suit its area. The Department will require that all closing dates are no later than 28 February 2022. Groups should check with their LCDC for further details.

For details on the funding in each Local Authority area please see the below table.

Local Authority area	Amount
Carlow	268,411
Cavan	269,514
Clare	278,514
Cork City	307,407
Cork County	312,599
Donegal	318,923
Dublin City	424,612
Dun Laoghaire	284,216
Fingal	301,042
Galway City	264,910
Galway County	286,802
Kerry	284,817
Kildare	296,027
Kilkenny	272,638
Laois	273,048
Leitrim	258,445
Limerick	305,884
Longford	264,769
Louth	291,084
Mayo	290,406
Meath	285,786
Monaghan	265,141
Offaly	277,101
Roscommon	266,602
Sligo	268,168
South Dublin	338,797
Tipperary	299,381
Waterford	288,997
Westmeath	273,141
Wexford	300,129
Wicklow	282,686

ENDS

Contact:

The Department of Rural and Community Development Press Office

01-773 6843 / 087-1734633

[email protected]

November 11, 2021

Over €800,000 in funding for community gardens, outdoor spaces and allotments announced

Some 25 projects nationwide to be funded under 2021 CLÁR Programme
Projects include community and sensory gardens, outdoor spaces and allotments in rural towns and villages

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced €810,000 in funding to support 25 projects under the 2021 CLÁR Programme.

The funding will support local groups in developing community and sensory gardens, outdoor spaces and allotments.

In practical terms, communities will receive funding for the likes of raised flower beds, wildflower gardens, sensory planting, polytunnels, outdoor equipment, picnic tables and shelters. All projects must adhere to the Leave No Trace principles.

The 2021 CLÁR Programme is a key part of the Government’s five-year rural development strategy, Our Rural Future.

This year alone, the scheme has delivered over €5.7 million for projects across the country.

Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said:

“The projects receiving funding today will help to channel the real sense of pride that people in rural Ireland have in their localities and their environment.

“Funding for such community-led projects is at the very core of the Government’s vision for rural Ireland as set out in ‘Our Rural Future’.

“The funding will go a long way in terms of assisting our Community Groups, TidyTowns and Development Associations in making their localities more vibrant places to live and raise a family.

“This funding will lead to the creation of community spaces where people can come together and meet their families and friends.

“The initiative is also key in realising our desire to build an even more environmentally responsible society.

“As Minister, I am delighted to support these 25 projects and I look forward to visiting many of them in the future.”

Examples of some of the successful organisations include:

Bruckless Community Park, Co Donegal: Sensory space and associated planting, seating and BBQ area – €50,000
Ballinamore Community Garden, Co Leitrim: Installation of a large polytunnel and a teaching tunnel – €8,438
Abbeylara Community Garden, Co Longford: Sensory Garden, Outdoor stage, Children’s Play Area and Picnic benches – €50,000
Ballybay Allotments and Community Garden, Co Monaghan : development of allotments and community garden – € 35,586
Cappoquin Community Garden/Waterford Area Partnership, Co Waterford: New community garden – €5,085
Tournafulla Sustainable Living Community, Co Limerick: Transform an area of waste land into a vibrant community garden – €50,000

The full list of successful projects is available at the following link: https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/bd890-clar-2021-funding-approvals/

Today’s announcement is in addition to funding of over €4.2 million for 104 projects which the Minister announced on 30 August 2021 under Measures 1 and 2 of CLÁR and over €747k for 14 projects under Measure 3(b) announced on 2 September 2021.

September 8, 2021

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