Funding available through local authorities to support communities in building low carbon and sustainable futures
Fianna Fáil TD Aisling Dempsey has welcomed the allocation of €910,459 in funding for local community climate projects across Meath.
The funding forms part of a wider national investment announced by Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, with almost €27 million being awarded to more than 650 projects nationwide.
The funding is being made available through local authorities to support communities in building low carbon and sustainable futures.
Among the groups and organisations awarded funding from the Community Climate Projects were: Oldcastle Men's Shed, Athboy RFC, Bohermeen CC, Dunderry GAA, Kiltale Hurling & Camogie Club, Ballinlough GAA and Community Centre, Trim Family Resource Centre, Moylagh GAA, Torro United and Johnstown Tidy Towns.
An additional €2.6 million has also been announced to support larger scale projects identified by local authorities through reserve lists, with successful projects under this funding stream due to be communicated to councils in the coming days.
The programme supports a broad range of community led initiatives aimed at reducing emissions, improving biodiversity and strengthening sustainability at a local level.
Speaking on the announcement, Deputy Dempsey said:
“Local communities are at the heart of our efforts on climate change, while also contributing to our national climate and energy goals. They are leading the charge and it is essential they are supported.
“That is what this money today will do, it provides funding to ensure even more of these ambitious community projects can move forward so we can achieve our climate goals.
“Right across Meath I know people and groups who are passionate about making a difference, and I believe Government should support them in doing so.
“That is exactly what Fianna Fáil in Government is trying to achieve by providing greater support for communities taking real action on climate change at a local level.”
Projects funded under the programme have already delivered significant benefits for communities including lower energy costs, enhanced biodiversity, wildlife restoration, improved public amenities and stronger community engagement.
The scheme is administered through the network of Community Climate Action Officers within local authorities, who work directly with communities to provide guidance, support and practical assistance in delivering lower carbon and more sustainable projects.
Kells Cllr Sarah Reilly welcomed the strong level of funding secured by groups across North Meath under the latest funding allocations.
Last year, Cllr Reilly organised one-to-one briefing sessions between local community groups and Meath County Council’s Climate Action Team to help groups discuss potential applications and better understand the process involved.
She said the sessions gave groups an excellent opportunity to get guidance on how to put forward strong applications and navigate what was a particularly detailed and onerous application process.
“The variety and quality of projects awarded funding is fantastic to see,” said Cllr Reilly.