Over €600,000 in CLAR funding for Laois projects

Laois TDs Willie Aird and Sean Fleming welcomed the awarding of €611,124 for nine community projects under the CLÁR Programme in Laois.

The funding went to projects in Ballyfin, Crettyard, Rathdowney, Mountrath, Raheen, Coolrain, Ballaghmore, Donaghmore and Vicarstown. 

CLÁR is a targeted investment programme designed to provide funding for small infrastructural projects in rural areas that have experienced significant depopulation. Its aim is to support sustainable development by attracting people to live and work in CLÁR areas.

Deputy Aird said “this is excellent news for Laois and a real endorsement of the great work being done by local groups here.

The nine projects receiving this funding will provide long-lasting benefits, improving key amenities and ensuring that communities across Laois continue to flourish.”

According to Dep Aird,  “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.”

Deputy Fleming said the funding will make a real difference in people’s lives, helping to improve local facilities, create safer and more accessible spaces, and bring communities closer together.

“It helps us create strong, resilient, and vibrant communities where families can thrive, young people can grow and stay close to home, and local clubs and schools can continue to flourish,” said Dep Fleming. 

He said “initiatives like this demonstrate the real impact that can be achieved when communities, local representatives, and government work together to deliver positive, lasting change.”

Deputy Aird said  “with more people living and working in Laois than ever before, it is important that rural Ireland continues to be prioritised 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.”

Dep Fleming wished all nine community projects across county Laois every success and said  these projects were being brought to fruition for the benefit of the communities and Co Laois.