The Government has launched the Community Recognition Fund 2024, announcing a further €50 million in funding.

In the 2023 allocation, €50 million was approved to support approximately 900 projects in cities, towns, and villages across the nation, benefiting communities that have embraced individuals from Ukraine and elsewhere.

Today's announcement brings an additional €50 million for projects spanning 2024 and 2025. Local authorities, working alongside communities, will receive funding to initiate projects aimed at providing lasting benefits to residents in the designated areas.

Projects that will be funded include:

•Development or refurbishment of community or cultural facilities including play areas, walkways, parks, community/sensory gardens, allotments, and recreational areas;

•Development or refurbishment of local club and sports facilities;

•Enhancement to school/parish facilities which are open to use by all of the community after school hours;

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•Purchase of equipment for local clubs, festivals, community events and organisations

•Transport infrastructure such as community vehicles

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Minister Humphreys said:

"I am very pleased to be in a position to announce an additional €50 million in funding under the Community Recognition Fund. This allocation will double the funding provided by my Department to €100 Million in supporting communities across the country who have responded to the humanitarian crisis in welcoming people from Ukraine and other countries.

"I know communities the length and breadth of the country have really stepped up to the plate in recent months in terms of welcoming families from Ukraine or those seeking asylum from other countries. This funding is about recognising the efforts and the generosity that so many communities have shown during what has been a challenging time for our country.

"Good progress is being made in the delivery of projects under the initial allocation of €50 Million in 2023. These are projects which will provide long term benefits to communities for many years, such as community centre enhancements in Athboy in Meath, a walking trail adjoining the amenity park in Swinford in Mayo; and improvement works in the Family Resource Centre in Gorey in Wexford.

"I would encourage community groups in impacted areas to contact their local authority for more details and to discuss potential projects to be funded under this new round of funding."

Minister Joe O' Brien added: "The Community Recognition Fund announced today gives local communities across Ireland another opportunity to expand and improve local facilities to continue to meet the needs of communities as they change and develop over time. I’d encourage communities to use this funding opportunity to consider projects that will add benefit and help meet local needs in their area."