Local Minister Denis Naughten is pleased to confirm that communities across Roscommon-Galway are set to benefit from a new Government fund specifically targeting facilities in local communities.

Under the Government’s new Community Enhancement Programme, Roscommon and Galway communities have been allocated €276,702.

The Community Enhancement Programme which is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development, will provide a total of €4.5 million in grant funding this year towards enhancing the facilities available to communities.  The programme replaces and builds on two existing schemes (Communities Facilities Scheme and the RAPID).

Minister Naughten said: “Roscommon and Galway Councils have received a significant portion of the national allocation by my Cabinet colleague Minister Michael Ring which I very much welcome. Roscommon County Council will receive €133,301 while Galway County Council has been allocated €143,401. This funding means valuable facilities in our communities can be enhanced and improved. Some funding is being ring-fenced for smaller projects such as lawnmowers, IT equipment and minor building works. The fund supports communities that are working hard to improve their surroundings for all of us to enjoy and benefit from so it is right that they receive Government recognition in this way. I’m urging communities to apply before the closing date of July 30 through their local community development committees and avail of this important funding.’’

Types of projects that could benefit include renovation of community centres, community amenities, improvements to town parks and common areas and spaces, CCTV equipment and energy efficiency projects.