A total of 18 innovative projects across rural Ireland have secured over €700,000 in funding.

Rural Minister Heather Humphreys TD announced the funding under the CLÁR Programme as part of a new Innovation Measure designed to support communities in delivering projects that assist with issues such as rural isolation, population decline and social disadvantage.

The CLÁR Programme is a key part of Our Rural Future ­– the Government's five year strategy designed to revitalise Rural Ireland.

Announcing the funding today, Minister Humphreys said: "I am delighted to announce funding for these projects, as part of the CLÁR programme's new Innovation Measure. 

"This is a measure that is designed to support innovative and bold ideas that will make a difference in communities across rural Ireland.

-- Advertisement --

"The range of projects being awarded funding today shows the depth of talent, innovation and creativity that exists in rural Ireland. Harnessing this resource is a key element of the Government's vision for rural Ireland as set out in Our Rural Future.

"I'm really looking forward to visiting these projects to see first-hand the impact that they will have in rural towns and villages."

As part of the competitive application process, a wide range of innovative proposals were received from community organisations and local authorities across the CLÁR areas.

Some of the projects which have now been selected for funding include the development of a Research and Development Innovation Centre of Excellence in Co Kerry and removing existing lighting from Mayo's Viaduct Bridge and Church Grounds and replacing it with ecologically friendly lights to enhance the nocturnal environment safely.

This new investment is in addition to funding of over €5.7m for 143 projects which Minister Humphreys recently announced under CLÁR for schools and community safety measures, outdoor community recreation facilities, community gardens and allotments, and mobility and cancer care transport services. This brings the total amount funded under the CLÁR 2021 programme to over €6.5m for over 160 projects.