Over €1.2m has been granted to Clare Local Development Company Ltd to undertake a wide range of schemes.

The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs sanctioned the €1,221,091 package under the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013.

Clare TD Tony Killeen said the funds would enable the Local Development Company to administer grants to worthwhile projects that will "make a big difference" to their communities.

"The Rural Development Programme presents individuals and organisations in every corner of Clare with an ideal opportunity to invest in their own communities," he said.

-- Advertisement --

"Despite the economic challenges facing the country, I believe that this is a time of great opportunity for rural areas.

"With the increasing urbanisation of society, there is renewed interest in rural recreation."

Meanwhile, the North Clare TD said he welcomed the recent decision of the European Commission to allow certain capital projects under the Rural Development Programme to receive extra funding from local authorities.

"This applies to capital projects under three measures – village renewal and development, basic services for the economy and rural population, and conservation and upgrading of the rural heritage – and allows for up to 95% of the project’s funding to be provided," said Mr Killeen.

He said local authorities will now be able to take on projects of a larger scale and greater variety.

(PR/KMcA)