Offaly community groups share in over €430,000 of funding under Clar scheme

Offaly community and sports groups have shared in over €430,000 of funding as part of the CLÁR Programme announced today by Minister Humphreys.

Local councillors Cllr. John Clendennen and Senator Pippa Hackett have both shared their delight, calling the funding a major boost.

Croghan received €24,200 for public lighting, €47,347 for Croghan Community Centre, and €6,953 for Pure Mile Group.

Dromakeenan NS were allocated €44,712, Roscomroe NS €46,899, St. Finian's Church, Longford €25,000, and Fivealley were allocated €45,000.

Clonfanlough Hall were allocated €50,000, followed by Ballybritt and Shannonbridge Hall who both received €49,500. St. Brigid's GAA Club were allocated €43,225.

Speaking about the announcement, Cllr. John Clendennen stated: “This funding is a major boost for the successful communities, and I am delighted to have worked with my colleagues Cllr Hughie Egan and Cllr Liam Quinn, to secure the funding.

"Each of these projects will have a meaningful impact, providing better facilities and contributing to the vitality of rural life. The Clar Scheme is crucial in supporting the sustainable growth of our localities, and this investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to rural Ireland.”

Senator Pippa Hackett congratulated the organisations that were successful in their applications, and praised the work of the local volunteers who were instrumental in driving the success of their projects.

“CLÁR funding is specifically designed to improve the lives of people in rural communities by supporting the recreational facilities that so often play an undervalued role in the day-to-day activity of that area” said the Government Minister.

“Whether it’s the Community Centres in Croghan and Shannonbridge, the playground at Dromakeenan NS, or the planted rest area and meeting point as part of the Fivealley Pride of Place initiative that I can’t wait to visit, putting in place these facilities and keeping them in good working order is a source of great pride to these local communities.

"I want to thank the volunteers that have put the time, energy and research into these projects and hundreds others like them, and to congratulate them on their success today.”