Community Peatlands initiatives to benefit from €500k scheme

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

IFA and Bord Gáis Energy launch new solar energy pilot 

IFA and Bord Gáis Energy launch new solar energy pilot 

IFA and Bord Gáis Energy launched a comprehensive solar pilot for farmers today.  The project, which has been in development for over a year, reached a key milestone this week with the successful installation and commissioning of two farms.

At the launch, James Kelly, IFA’s Director of Organisation said, “This important partnership with Bord Gáis Energy will see solar energy installations on up to a further 15 farms, across a number of sectors and geographies. The purpose of this pilot is to establish what works commercially and the challenges that create barriers to implementation. The farming community want to play an active part in the green agenda, and this is a very real demonstration of this commitment which also reduces cost inputs for farmers as well as helping Government deliver on the 2030 carbon reduction targets.”

Martin Stapleton, Chairman of IFA Member Services said, “IFA and Bord Gáis Energy have invested a significant amount of time in this project. For rooftop solar on farms to be adopted in large numbers, there is a need for up to a 60% capital grant to achieve a reasonable payback. To ensure that there is successful adoption of solar, it must be clear that it does not take from any existing capital grants open to farmers.”

Colin Bebbington, Director Energy, Marketing and Data at Bord Gáis Energy said “Bord Gáis Energy is committed to contributing to a net zero economy and helping our customers transition affordably to a lower carbon future. We have a longstanding relationship with the IFA and we’re proud to be working together on this initiative which will drive solar energy generation on farms, helping farmers to lower their carbon footprint which leads to long term sustainable farming.”

For further information on this comprehensive pilot, visit ifa.ie/solar

Ends

 

January 20, 2022

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

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

Press.office@drcd.gov.ie

November 11, 2021

Carbon Budget Will Have Serious Impact on Rural Economy

Carbon Budget Will Have Serious Impact on Rural Economy

IFA President Tim Cullinan said the carbon budget staging announced by the Climate Change Advisory Council  and the sectoral emissions ceilings reported, will have serious repercussions for farming.

“Our most productive farmers simply cannot remain viable if agriculture has to reduce emissions by between 21% and 30% as has been reported. This will have profound implications for the rural economy,” he said.

“Some may compare the carbon budget, and the sectoral ceilings that had been proposed, to other sectors and think agriculture has got a fair deal, but the Government has not considered the implications for individual farmers and the sector,” he said.

“For most people, climate action will impact on their lifestyle. For farmers, it will impact on our livelihoods,” he said.

“It’s also important to realise that increases in the cost of energy and transport fuel are already impacting on the viability of farms and rural businesses,” he said.

“The Government must now engage in meaningful negotiation with farmers to make a plan for the sector that can contribute to emissions reduction, but which does not impact on farmer’s livelihoods. In addition, proper funding must be in place to help farmers implement climate action measures,” he said.

“The frustration for farmers is that they know that if less food is produced in Ireland, it will be produced elsewhere, with a higher carbon footprint,” he said.

“The world’s population is growing and is likely to increase from 7.5 billion today to 10 billion by 2050. More food will be needed, not less,” he said.

“There is a huge amount of misinformation out there. Ireland’s grass-based system is extremely efficient. The Government must support farmers, not regulate them out of business,” he said.

Ends.

October 28, 2021

IFA Telecom Announces Market-leading Offer

IFA Telecom Announces Market-leading Offer

IFA Telecom Announces Market-leading Offer

Deal includes six months FREE phone and broadband and will provide you with competitive packages

IFA Telecom has launched a new offer which will save you up to €350 on home phone and broadband packages.

James Kelly, IFA’s Director of Organisation said, “As we emerge from the pandemic, one of the main aims of our business is to ensure we continue to deliver fantastic service and incredible value.”

“Broadband access is more important than ever for rural Irish families. The pandemic accelerated the need for a reliable broadband service and IFAT is best placed to provide this service to the rural community.

“With IFA Telecom, there are no hidden costs, and we provide exceptional customer service. Our Customer Service team is based right here in the Farm Centre and are trained to know our service inside-out.”

For more information on this offer or to sign up, contact IFA Telecom on 0818 924 852.

September 29, 2021

Minister Humphreys announces funding for 31 walking trails

Minister Humphreys announces funding for 31 walking trails

Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys announces funding for 31 walking trails to boost outdoor recreation and rural tourism

  • 31 new trails added in 13 counties under Government’s ‘Walks Scheme’
  • Rural Recreation Officers to be appointed to enhance our outdoor amenities
  • Department to work with over 2,400 farmers and landowners to promote rural tourism

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has today announced a major initiative for Rural Ireland, which includes the addition of 31 new walking trails to her Department’s Walks Scheme and funding for a number of new Rural Recreation Officers.

The 31 new trails across 13 counties are to be added to the ‘Walk’s Scheme’, which aims to open up our countryside to local walkers, hikers and tourists.

Under the scheme, funding is provided to farmers and other landowners to maintain the trails that travel through their holdings.

Today’s announcement means there will now be 80 trails under the Scheme, which is operated by the Department of Rural and Community Development in conjunction with the Local Development Companies (LDCs) and over 2,400 farmers and landowners in total.

The trails added today involve over 400 farmers and include the Dingle Way in County Kerry, St Declan’s Way in County Waterford, the Ballyhoura Way in County Limerick, the South Leinster Way in County Kilkenny and the Slí Gaeltacht Mhuscraí in County Cork.

The Cavan Way in County Cavan, the Wicklow Uplands Way in County Wicklow, the Lung/Lough Gara Way in County Roscommon and the Durrow Leafy Loop in County Sligo are also among the trails being added to the Scheme.

Additional funding will also be provided to the Local Development Companies that deliver the scheme locally, as well as for the salaries paid to the Rural Recreation Officers who play a vital role in delivering the Walks Scheme and developing the outdoor recreation sector locally. Minister Humphreys also today announced the creation of up to 8 new Rural Recreation Officer posts in addition to the 13 already in place. These are designed to further enhance our outdoor amenities and the experience of visitors to Rural Ireland.The announcement delivers on commitments in both the Programme for Government and Our Rural Future to increase the number of trails under the ‘Walks Scheme’ in order to boost outdoor recreation and tourism in rural towns and villages.

Minister Humphreys also today published a review of the Walks Scheme, which sets out a number of recommendations aimed at enhancing the Walks Scheme and the role of Rural Recreation Officers, and will be implemented in consultation with key stakeholders.

The Minister made the announcements during a visit to officially open St Declan’s Way in Co. Waterford, a 115km trail involving 45 farmers and landowners which is amongst the trails being added to the scheme.

The Minister said:

“Our walkways, trails, greenways, blueways and cycleways are a defining feature of Rural Ireland.

“They have been a godsend throughout the Covid-19 Pandemic – providing so many of us with the opportunity to get out for some exercise and to meet up with family and friends.

“Over the past number of months, we have seen unprecedented investment in our outdoor amenities, underpinned by the most ambitious ever policy for Rural Ireland, ‘Our Rural Future’.

“Today’s announcement is further action behind that policy. By adding 31 new trails to the Walks Scheme, we are opening up our rural countryside further to walkers, hikers, adventurists, cyclists, as well as domestic and international tourists.

“And it means we are investing in some of the most picturesque locations in the country, so that they can be enjoyed and experienced by millions of people every year.”

The Minister added:

“In rolling out the Walks Scheme, my Department works closely with our Local Development Companies, community groups and rural farmers and landowners. We are indebted to our farmers and other landowners throughout the country that facilitate access to these wonderful trails and who now, through this scheme, are being funded to maintain the walks to the high standard we have all come to expect.

“Another important part of today’s announcement is the decision to appoint up to 8 new Rural Recreation Officers, as well as improving the salaries of the Rural Recreation Officers that are already carrying out great work across the country.  These individuals are crucial in implementing the Walks Scheme and working with all stakeholders to enhance our outdoor amenities.

“As Minister, I am committed to expanding the Walks Scheme so that more communities can reap the benefits.

“I am also committed to looking at further increasing the number of RROs nationwide based on the outcome of our new National Outdoor Recreation Strategy, which is currently being developed and which will make Rural Ireland an even better place to live, visit and raise a family.”

Minister Humphreys concluded:

“I am also today publishing a review of the Walks Scheme, which was carried out by Outdoor Recreation Northern Ireland (ORNI).

“The recommendations in the review are extensive, covering every aspect of scheme delivery and impacting across a range of stakeholders.

“Given the breadth of issues covered and that many impact beyond my Department, I intend to establish a stakeholder consultation group to explore the recommendations and how they could be implemented at a local level.

“Finally, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of the Local Development Companies, Trail management groups and especially the farmers and landowners for their excellent cooperation with my Department.”

The report on the review of the Walks Scheme can be on gov.ie here:

https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/942b4b-the-walks-scheme-and-rural-recreation-officers/#2021-review-of-the-walks-scheme

 ENDS

Contact:

The Department of Rural and Community Development Press Office

01-773 6843 / 087-173 4633

Press.office@drcd.gov.ie

September 29, 2021

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

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

Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys announces over €4.2 million in funding for schools, sports clubs, playgrounds and community organisations

  • 104 projects to benefit from funding under CLÁR Programme
  • Huge focus on young people and developing our outdoor amenities

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, today (Monday 30th August) announced over €4.2 million in funding to support our schools, playgrounds, infrastructure projects and community organisations across Rural Ireland.

The funding comes under Department of Rural and Community Development’s CLÁR Programme, which is a key part of Our Rural Future, the Government’s five year strategy to revitalise our rural towns and villages.

Today’s announcement will see 104 projects supported in rural communities, under Measures 1 & 2 of the CLÁR 2021 programme.

Further announcements under the CLÁR programme will be made by Minister Humphreys in the coming weeks.

 Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said:

 “The CLÁR Programme 2021 puts our young people at the fore. From investing in our schools, playgrounds, outdoor amenities and other projects – we are demonstrating the value and appreciation we have for the leaders of the future.

 “If the Pandemic has taught us one thing, it’s that our young people are our shining lights.

 “Investing in them is an investment in our future – that’s what today’s announcement is all about.

 “This particular announcement under my Department’s CLÁR Programme is the perfect example of why ‘Our Rural Future’ will be a game changer for Rural Ireland.”

 The Minister made the announcement after visiting the community in the small village of Mullan, Co Monaghan.

Since the CLÁR Programme was reintroduced in 2016, it has provided funding of over €38m to over 1,600 projects under various measures.

This year, Measure 1 of the Programme will provide almost €2 million in support for projects in 52 communities.

The projects will provide and improve safety infrastructure such as footpaths, public lighting, traffic calming measures and car parking facilities. This measure also continues to support projects that help adapt the environs of schools and community facilities to help meet challenges arising from the pandemic.

Measure 2 funds outdoor community recreation facilities and this year funding of over €2.2 million will be provided in support of 52 projects across communities throughout the country. This measure includes supports for the development of new and enhanced community spaces including supports for playgrounds and Multi Use Games Areas (MUGAs).

Examples of successful projects announced today include:

  • Clare: New 1,500 meter walking trail at Tulla Athletics Club – supporting the surrounding woods, picnic tables and hedgerow planting: €43,560.
  • Donegal: To enhance the shorefront in support of the Culfaff Development Associaton. This will enhance the adjoining playground providing for outdoor exercise equipment, wheelchair accessible picnic benches and seating: €50,000
  • Monaghan: Development of a Community play area in Mullan Village: €50,000
  • Kerry: Kilgarvan GAA Hurling & Football Club: Installation of bicycle racks, outdoor bowling area, picnic area, parking infrastructure, disability parking and biodiversity landscaping: €50,000
  •  Laois:– Ballyfin Community Development Association – Provision of a children’s playground; safe surfacing, seating, fencing, biodiversity & sensory planting – €49,500
  •  Sligo: – Coolaney Development Company – Construction of asphalt finished pump track for bikes – €49,500

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

 Ends

Contact:

The Department of Rural and Community Development Press Office

076-1006843 / 087-1734633

Press.office@drcd.gov.ie

September 1, 2021

Streetscape Enhancement Initiative

Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys announces the 124 towns and villages to benefit from new €7 million fund to enhance streetscapes & shopfronts

  • Projects to include upgrades to building facades, artwork, murals, lighting, street furniture and canopies
  • Investment designed to make rural towns and villages more colourful, vibrant and attractive places
  • Minister Humphreys encourages businesses and property owners to contact their local authority to apply

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has today announced the 124 towns and villages that will benefit from a new €7 million fund to support the enhancement of streetscapes and shopfronts.

The Streetscape Enhancement Initiative is a key part of Our Rural Future and is designed to make our rural towns and villages more attractive places to live, work and visit.

Under the scheme, property owners will be provided with funding to improve the facades of their buildings, carry out artwork and install features such as canopies and street furniture.

The 124 towns and villages announced by the Minister today were selected by each local authority, which will now begin the process of advertising locally for applications.

The types of projects to be supported include:

  • strategic collaboration between property owners to paint buildings or shopfronts in vibrant colours
  • commissioning of murals in towns and villages
  • upgrade or restoration of historic / traditional shopfronts
  • provision of street planting, shrubbery, trees and flowers boxes
  • illumination and lighting of architectural features
  • installation of canopies and street furniture
  • decluttering of streetscapes with removal of unnecessary signs / wires

Minister Humphreys today encouraged business and property owners in any of the 124 towns and villages selected to contact their local authority for information on how to apply.

Announcing the 124 towns and villages today, Minister Humphreys said:

“This unique initiative is about making our rural towns and villages more attractive and welcoming places for locals and visitors alike.

“Whether it’s painting buildings in vibrant colours, upgrading shop fronts or installing canopies or street furniture – this fund will provide a welcome boost to rural communities the length and breadth of the country.

“We all know that even the most modest of improvements to our buildings and streetscapes can make a huge difference.

“And so over the coming weeks, local authorities will work closely with businesses and property owners to give our towns and villages the facelift they deserve.”

The Minister added:

“When I launched the Government’s new rural policy, ‘Our Rural Future’, I said I wanted to reimagine and revitalise rural communities.

“This initiative is a key part of realising that goal. I am really looking forward to seeing the sort of proposals that are put forward over the coming weeks.

“If you are a business or property owner in any of the 124 towns and villages selected, I encourage you to contact your local authority for details on how to apply.

“I have no doubt the projects funded this initiative will make a huge difference to our rural towns and villages and, most importantly, the families who live there.”

The list of towns is included available on gov.ie.

ENDS

August 24, 2021

Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys Announces Funding for 20 Projects under Digital Innovation Programme

  • Diverse range of projects aim to use new technologies to solve rural problems and deliver real benefits to communities
  • Special Defibrillator App, Inflatable Cinema Screens, Smart Beaches, Wifi Hotspots, Tourism Apps, Smart Farming and Air Quality Monitoring among successful projects

 The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys T.D. today (Thursday, 19 August), announced €1.2million in funding for 20 projects under the Our Rural Future Digital Innovation Programme. The programme funds Local Authority-led innovation projects that provide a public benefit and support regional digital development.

As part of the competitive application process, a wide range of innovative proposals were received from Local Authorities. Some of the projects which have now been selected for funding include:

  • Ring Buoy Project (Sligo as the lead partner)

Ring buoys are present at many of our beaches and inland waterways and are life-saving equipment. This project will see ring buoys fitted with sensors that can remotely notify council staff if a ring buoy is due to be inspected / repaired, or if a ring buoy is missing from its station. This will speed up replacements and will save lives, work hours and money.

  • Defibrillator Locator App – Roscommon

Roscommon County Council will develop a Defibrillator Location App. This will enable members of the public in Roscommon to immediately locate the defibrillator which is nearest to them saving precious time in the event of a cardiac arrest. This App has the potential to be scaled nationally.

  • Outdoor Inflatable Screens – Monaghan

Monaghan County Council will trial inflatable outdoor screens to see how effective they are at delivering important information to the public. The screens will be made available for use by local organisations including Clones Film Society, Foróige, Primary Schools and other local organisations.

  • RAPIDS – Limerick

The aim of the project is to develop technology to improve the identification of potholes and the quality of road surface on Limerick’s roads; proactively identifying potholes earlier will reduce road maintenance costs and lower the carbon footprint of roads maintenance, thereby improving public safety and value for money.

Speaking today, Minister Humphreys said:

“The Digital Innovation Programme is designed to encourage innovation and collaboration, and to help us to work smarter in supporting rural Ireland.  The range of projects approved today showcase the imagination, energy and expertise that exists in rural Ireland. 

“People who live in rural Ireland are nothing if not innovative. In recent years we have seen drones delivering medicine to our Island communities. This small scheme is all about giving rural communities the opportunity to trial new technologies which will solve local problems. If it works for one community, it can work for others and we can then look at replicating these models in other areas.

“I look forward to seeing these projects delivering clear benefits to rural communities over the coming months.”

Full details with detailed descriptions on all 20 successful projects is available on gov.ie.

ENDS

Contact:

The Department of Rural and Community Development Press Office

076-1006843 / 087-1734633

Press.office@drcd.gov.ie

Notes  

The Digital Innovation Programme is an initiative of the Department of Rural and Community Development. It is designed to encourage local authority led projects that support digital development. These projects must promote, support, or otherwise advance at least one of the seven pillars of digital maturity:

  • Digital Skills
  • Infrastructure
  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship
  • Digital Economy & Employment
  • Digital Services
  • Community & Culture
  • Digital Transition

Projects that cut across more than one of the pillars are particularly welcome, as are projects that demonstrate significant collaboration.

These projects will provide innovative digital solutions to issues, or identify solutions to digital issues and should be scalable and replicable by other local authorities.

This year there were two application streams:

  1. Innovation

These projects include trialling of entirely new technologies or innovative uses of existing technologies. The maximum award in this stream is €75,000.

  1. Scaling-up

These projects will scale-up an already proven technology or initiative. For example, a project that has only been trialled at a municipal level in Ireland could be scaled-up to county level, or county level to national level. Alternatively, a project that sought to benefit a particular cohort within society or address a specific challenge could be broadened to include additional cohorts / challenges. The maximum award under this stream is €200,000.

Successful Projects

County Project Title Stream Funding Requested
Monaghan Outdoor Inflatable Screens Innovation €1,500
Kerry Smart Beaches Scaling €200,000
Westmeath Asset Mapping Innovation €52,600
Donegal Climate Change Recording Innovation €12,800
Clare Hare’s Corner Scaling €44,000
Offaly Water Flow/Level Recording Innovation €14,268
Sligo Ring Buoy Theft Prevention Scaling €120,000
Tipperary Shared Telecoms Infrastructure Innovation €48,000
Limerick RAPIDS Innovation €67,560
Roscommon Defib Locator App Innovation €17,400
Galway Digital Dissemination Innovation €8,000
Offaly Edenderry IOT Innovation €35,021
Kerry Smart Park Kerry Scaling €76,800
Kerry Atlantic Discover Platform Scaling €200,000
Wexford Town of Things Innovation €73,200
Tipperary Smart Skills for Farming Communities Innovation €24,000
Monaghan Sensory Gardens Innovation €12,000
Meath Air Quality Monitoring Scaling €163,518
Longford Longford Text Alert Innovation €14,000
Cork Remote Printing Scaling €29,600
€1,214,267

 

Details on each project can be found on gov.ie.

August 19, 2021