Local TD Denis Naughten has welcomed the allocation of €128,497 for small volunteer youth clubs in Counties Roscommon and Galway under the Local Youth Club Grant Scheme.

“The funding allocated by my colleague Minister Katherine Zappone is an increase on last year’s allocation and will provide small volunteer-led youth clubs in Galway and Roscommon with greater capacity to reach more young people during 2019,” explained Denis Naughten.

The Local Youth Club Grant Scheme supports youth work activities by providing grant aid towards the cost of running clubs and groups and is part funded by the proceeds from the National Lottery.

The primary focus of the scheme is to assist volunteer led youth clubs that provide a programme of youth work activities for young people. Clubs that work with young people but are not specifically providing youth work may also be eligible to apply under the scheme.

“This funding will mean smaller volunteer-led youth clubs across Roscommon and Galway will be in a position to reach and benefit more young people across the two counties. The Local Youth Club Grant Scheme 2019 is open to new entrants so I am encouraging clubs to apply through the Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board,” stated Denis Naughten.

“The allocation recognises the service and contribution such groups make in the lives of our young people and in our communities as a whole. The valuable work carried out by volunteers deserves Government support and today’s announcement reflects this.

“These groups working on the ground across Roscommon and Galway are working to improve the health and well-being of our young people while helping to prevent anti-social behaviour and providing much needed support, guidance and friendship to young people. The impact that youth club volunteers have on the lives of our young people needs to be acknowledged and celebrated. They are providing valuable adventure, activities and an opportunity to learn new skills,” concluded Denis Naughten.

Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board: http://galwayroscommon.etb.ie/

ENDS.