Major funding boost brings almost €400,000 to Meath community initiatives
A total of €394,566 is being provided under the CLÁR Programme, which offers targeted funding for rural areas that have experienced significant population decline.
The programme supports community-led initiatives aimed at improving local facilities, enhancing safety, and elevating overall quality of life.
Welcoming the announcement, Fine Gael Councillor Sarah Reilly described the funding as “fantastic news” for North Meath.
“I want to congratulate each of the successful applicants and thank them for their ongoing work to ensure North Meath continues to thrive,” she said.
“We are blessed in North Meath to have so many proactive community groups who go above and beyond to ensure we have top-notch facilities. Ensuring that North Meath continues to be a place we are proud to call home.”
Several local projects will benefit from this latest round of funding. Kilskyre Activity Centre is set to receive €62,941 for a car park upgrade, while Kilskyre Pride of Place has been granted €12,600 to replace an existing boundary wall.
Ballinlough GFC will receive €60,300 for improvements to its car park, and Moylagh GAA Club has been allocated €63,000 for additional parking facilities.
Carnaross GAA Centre will benefit from €78,300 to upgrade its car park surface, and Newcastle Community Development has been awarded €50,850 to construct a new entrance, install church-ground gates, and add a car park barrier.
Meanwhile, the Dromone and District Development Association has secured €66,575 for the development of a sensory garden.
Fine Gael Senator for Meath West, Linda Nelson Murray said the seven projects receiving this funding will provide “long-lasting benefits, improving key amenities and ensuring that communities across Meath continue to flourish.”
“This funding will help create better environments for people to come together, whether it’s for sports, cultural events, or simply to enjoy time in shared spaces,” she said.
Across the country, €14m has been allocated to projects under CLAR this year – the highest allocation since the scheme was reintroduced in 2016.
Senator Linda Nelson Murray added: “This funding also reflects the dedication of our local groups and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to push these projects forward.”
“Their passion for making County Meath the best it can has been central to today’s success.”