A total of 10 community groups, sports clubs, and schools in County Clare have secured funding of almost €500,000 for continued development.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD recently announced funding of €7.4 million to support 175 community groups across the country.

The CLÁR (Ceantair Laga Árd-Riachtanais) programme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and forms part of the Government's five-year policy for rural Ireland, 'Our Rural Future'.

Measure 1 of the CLÁR programme provides funding for the enhancement of existing, and/or the development of new, accessible community recreation facilities.

Welcoming the funding announcement, Cllr Tony O'Brien, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, said: "Ten communities in Clare stand to benefit from the development of facilities being funded under this announcement. The sports clubs, schools and community groups are to be commended for what they are achieving in developing these projects. I would like to thank Minister Humphreys and the Department for making this funding available and I look forward to the projects progressing."

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Leonard Cleary, Director of Rural Development, Clare County Council, added: "I am delighted to see such deserving community projects receive funding under the CLÁR programme Measure 1. These projects will allow each local group to develop facilities for the future enjoyment of residents and visitors, creating new recreational opportunities in communities across the county. I would like to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of all the groups involved."

The 10 groups in Clare which will receive funding are:

• Kilkeedy Community Group: Development of the Kilkeedy Community Playground - €50,000

• Scoil Mhuire Lahinch: Car Park Enhancement project - €50,000

• Kilkee Playground: Enhancement of the Kilkee Playground Facilities - €45,716

• Kilfenora National School: Provision of multi-use games area with fencing and access gate for use by the whole community - €50,000

• Scariff Rugby Club: Provision of Safety Works on the Club Car Park - €35,753

• Kilmaley Meitheal: Development of the Kilmaley Community Walkway - €50,000

• Lissycasey GAA: Development of the Lissycasey Running Track - €50,000

• Kilmihil People's Park: Provision of Public Walkway around Astro-turf pitch - €50,000

• Tulla GAA Club: Surfacing works on the Car Park including drainage, lining, and lighting at Tulla GAA Club - €50,000

• Crusheen Sports Arena and Community Hub: Development of a Multi-Use Games Area/Astro-turf in Crusheen - €50,000.