Over €40,000 earmarked for Laois community groups to boost biodiversity

Over €40,000 has been awarded to local community groups across Laois to boost biodiversity.

Laois County Council has welcomed the significant new funding from Community Foundation Ireland and the National Parks and Wildlife Service which aims to support and accelerate biodiversity action across Laois. 

The investment of €44,000, which will be shared out among various community groups, represents a major boost for the delivery of practical measures to enhance local habitats, protect species, and empower communities to take meaningful action for nature.

Four community groups in Laois have been allocated funding to create tailored biodiversity plans for their respective areas. These plans will provide a strategic roadmap for habitat enhancement, community engagement, and long-term protection of local wildlife.

Among these groups, Ballinakill Tidy Towns have been awarded €4,000 in funding. Clonad GAA, Clough Tidy Towns, and Mountmellick Women's Shed have all been granted €6,000 each. 

All four groups will be supported by the action plans in identifying priority projects, strengthening local stewardship of nature, and contributing to Laois environmental goals.

In addition to this, €12,000 has been earmarked for Portlaoise Tidy Towns to develop a biodiversity waymarked trail, enhancing public engagement and understanding of nature. 

Abbeyleix Tidy Towns have also been awarded €10,000 to support measures to boost pollinator populations. 

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Commenting on the announcement, Biodiversity Officer at Laois County Council, Lisa Doyle said: "This funding represents a boost for biodiversity action in Laois, including on-the-ground delivery of practical measures that enhance habitats and support wildlife.

"It is particularly encouraging to see communities being empowered to take meaningful, locally-led action for nature, with benefits that will be felt both environmentally and socially."

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme