Fine Gael Kildare North Deputy, Bernard Durkan, has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan TD, that Cill Dara Ar Aghaidh Teo has been sanctioned to approve funding of €456,621.54 to Straffan Community Council for the development of a community facility in the town.

This will be carried out under the Village Renewal and Development measure of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013.

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Mr Durkan said: "The people of Straffan have been doing stellar fundraising in recent months i to have Straffan Hall restored and upgraded so that it could meet the needs of the local community. The decision to make this money available will act as a major boost to the local community and will ensure that Straffan Hall continues to act as a major focal point in the village.

"Local community halls such as this serve all members of the community and facilitate community members coming together for classes, workshops and other receptions. The awarding of this money will be seen as a positive response to local initiative and hard work; all of which have made this allocation possible."

(CD)