Fine Gael TD for Roscommon/South Leitrim, Frank Feighan, has welcomed €200,000 in funding to the Castlerea Community Arts Group to complete the renovation and refurbishment works at Holy Trinity Church, which will become home to a landmark Arts, Heritage and Cultural Centre.

He said: "I am delighted that the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan , has sanction ed Roscommon Leader Partnership to approve funding of €200,000 to Castlerea Community Arts Group Ltd for the renovation and refurbishment of this very historic building.

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"I want to commend the members of the Castlerea Community Arts Group who had the long-term vision to develop a dedicated space to promote and facilitate Castlerea’s rich culture of music, song, drama and dance.

"Holy Trinity Church is an ideal location to do just that and the g roup’s commitment to redevelop this beautiful historic building is testament to their passion and commitment.

"Holy Trinity Church is a 200-year-old building which has a wonderful history and Dr. Douglas Hyde, the first P resident of Ireland and noted scholar, was baptised in the church where his father spent some time as rector.

"On completion of the project , Castlerea will have one of the region's finest arts spaces, which will include a 220 seated theatre and a tourist information centre to promote the area's rich history. The work already invested in this inspired project has been hugely impressive to date and I understand that €250,000 has already been spent on renovation and conservation works."

(CD)