Cash boost for community projects

Around €23m worth of funding was today earmarked for community development projects and organisations across the country.

More than 180 groups will benefit from the package, which will cover staffing and overhead costs at local resource centres in disadvantaged areas nationwide.

The 8% increase in funding under the Community Development Programme was granted by Minister of State Pat Carey, who has responsibility for Community Affairs and the National Drugs Strategy at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.

“I am delighted to announce this substantial funding,” he said.

“The Government has once again signalled its commitment to the sector, which reflects the good work done by projects and organisations in support of those in our communities who are less well off or are marginalised in whatever way.”

The programme was established in 1990 in recognition of the role a community development approach in supporting people in communities suffering exclusion, poverty and disadvantage.