Local Enhancement Programme funding allocations announced

Minister of State, Alan Dillon, has welcomed funding of over €193,000 awarded to 155 community, sporting and local groups across Mayo under the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP).

Funding from €600 to €2,040 has been awarded to the groups and organisations from the Department of Rural and Community Development under the programme. They include community organisations, clubs, men’s and women’s sheds, youth centres and parish halls to improve their facilities and continue to facilitate the provision of their valuable services to the people of these areas.

A total of €6m was allocated to assist thousands of community groups across the country with a focus on disadvantaged areas while also supporting the Government’s rural development policy, ‘Our Rural Future’.

Minister Dillon said: “The aim of this year’s LEP is to support non-profit, community-based and voluntary sector organisations who are seeking support with their capital costs through small scale funding. The fund also supports groups to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to their facilities and purchase equipment.

‘Groups and organisations across Mayo have been awarded funding with €1m nationally ring-fenced to support women’s groups. It will give a helping hand to our local groups and clubs, who are the building blocks of Irish community life.

Deputy Michael Ring, welcoming the news said: “The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 provides vital support to community groups in order to help them improve their facilities. It supports small-scale funding for projects. The Programme responds to local needs. These investments allow community groups to carry out the invaluable work they do on behalf of others in local areas throughout the country”.

“The impact of the Local Enhancement Programme is felt hugely in the communities that these groups serve”.