Clár grants of €202,000 makes Laois 'attractive to live, work and raise a family'

Five Laois community projects are to be funded by CLÁR rural grants, totalling €202,410, welcomed by Laois TDs.

They will benefit people of all ages, Fine Gael TD, Charlie Flanagan said on January 12, 2024.

“Today I welcome the announcement of over €202,410 in funding to support five community projects in Laois under the CLÁR Measure 1 Programme 2023. 

“Clubs and Community Groups are receiving grants of up to €50,000 to develop a wide and diverse range of community facilities in rural areas," he said.

Two of the Laois projects are in the Slieve Bloom mountains.  The Catholes Falls Amenity Area will get €50,000 for an upgrade and biodiversity enhancement of the public area while Cappard Amenity Area will get €35,000 for the same type of works. 

The rural village of Knock won two grants. Knock Community Hall gets €50,000 for upgrade of kitchen, stage & general facility, and the recently renovated Knock Chapel House (see photo) gets €23,850 for the fit out of the community house and creation of a community garden.

Lastly Trumera Community Centre is getting €43,560 for the upgrade of its kitchen, stage and general facility.

Deputy Flanagan said it boosts the quality of rural life in Laois.

“Recent census results demonstrate that there are now more people living and working in Laois than ever before, which is extremely positive. Fine Gael have always prioritised sustainable rural development to allow people live, work and grow old in their own communities.

“I wish to congratulate all of the successful applicants and I wish them well in bringing their projects to fruition.  These projects will make our rural communities here in Laois even more attractive places to live, work and raise a family.” Dep Flanagan said.

Minister of State for Finance, Fianna Fáil TD Sean Fleming also announced the funding.

"This funding is provided under the Clár Programme for Rural Areas to assist local community groups develop facilities and amenities for their communities in their areas.

"I know each of these projects are of great benefit in the local area as they include development of amenity areas, community halls and a local community Chapel house.

"I particularly want to thank the communities and especially the people involved who are driving these projects which will benefit the entire community," he said.