'Make a real difference to people's lives' - major funding for Mayo organisations

During a visit to St. Dympna’s School in Ballina, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has today (Friday, 12 September) announced €1.7 million to deliver 32 vehicles under the 2025 CLÁR programme.

The vehicles will provide much needed support for people with reduced mobility accessing day care, medical and other services, and for people who require transport services to access cancer treatment. This funding is also supporting the purchase of vital vehicles by community first responders, search and rescue organisations and Meals on Wheels groups.

Calleary said: “The CLÁR programme is providing funding to support vital services in some of our most rural areas, particularly for those with acute medical and accessibility challenges. These services give greater independence to individuals and their families, and empowers them to live fulfilled lives within their communities.

"We all know the immense value of these organisations in our communities. The volunteers in our community, first responders and search and rescue organisations are those who we turn to in some of the most challenging of circumstances. I’m delighted to be able to assist them in the critical services they provide. I’m also pleased to be able to support meals on wheels services that are vital to assist the elderly and vulnerable in their own homes.

"I know this investment of €1.7 million will make a real difference to people’s lives.

"I am delighted to confirm that I have allocated €358,224 in funding to 7 organisations in Mayo. St. Dymphna’s Special School €80,959; Western Care Belmullet €72,000; O’Dwyer Chesire Home Swinford €61,875; St. Colman’s Care Achill €43,000; Killala Community Council Meals on Wheels €39,488; Kilmovee Community Housing Meals on Wheels €34,502, Rehab Care Castlebar €26,400.

"I am delighted to be able to assist each of them in their work and efforts on behalf of their communities and wish all involved many years of happy and safe motoring,” he said.