New: 500k funding for 13 Laois community projects

Thirteen community projects in Laois have been awarded over €500,000 under the CLÁR programme.

A fund of €575,415 has been awarded to projects in Mountrath, Ballacolla, Errill, Ballyfin, Donaghmore, Rathdowney, and Vicarstown.

Through the CLÁR programme, the minimum grant awarded is €5,000 and the maximum grant is €50,000.

Nine projects will receive €50,000 each, such as St. Aengus FC (Mountrath), Clough Ballacolla GAA, Errill GAA, Ballyfin GAA, Colt GAA, Ballyfin National School, Ballyfin Community Playground, Donaghmore Workhouse Museum and Vicarstown Blueway.

A further four projects will also receive funding of varying amounts under this scheme, which include St. Joseph’s GAA, Clover Utd (Rathdowney), Clonin Sportsfield and Knock chapel. 

The investment will support the development of sports and outdoor facilities such as playgrounds, astro-turf pitches, walkways and more.

Seán Fleming TD, Minister of State, welcomed today's news.

"This is great news for these local groups, which can progress with their projects and make a really positive difference in local communities in Laois," said Seán Fleming TD, Minister of State.

"I am pleased that as Government TD and Minister, I have ensured that we continue supporting our local groups in Laois delivering the vision that they have for their areas."

"Local volunteers put in a very big effort to develop their local areas and local groups. They also provide invaluable amenities and services to the local community," the Minister finished.

Earlier this year, over €200,000 was awarded to five other Laois projects.