11 Mayo projects benefit from substantial CLÁR funding
A total allocation of €447,485 in CLÁR funding has been approved for 11 essential projects across the region.
These investments, supported by Minister Heather Humphreys, will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for many Mayo's rural communities.
The news has been welcomed by Mayo TDs Alan Dillon and Michael Ring.
Deputy Dillon said: “The CLÁR Programme in Mayo has been very beneficial and demonstrates that investment in rural communities can make a big difference to people who live in these communities.”
For the first time, the CLÁR programme has extended its support to include improvements to spectator stands at local GAA and sports clubs.
Deputy Dillon expressed his enthusiasm for this development, stating: "For the first time, the programme offers funding to carry out improvements at local GAA and sports clubs."
He went on to applaud the government's commitment to rural development, noting, "Last year, the Government launched its most ambitious rural development policy in decades, and ‘Our Rural Future’ is already having a big impact in communities up and down the country, including in Mayo."
The chairperson of the Fine Gael parliamentary party emphasised the importance of these projects.
"These projects are hugely important to our local communities. It is important that as a Government, we continue to invest in Rural Ireland in as many ways as possible, and the Clár program is a fantastic way that we can continue to do this."
Said Deputy Ring: "Reopened in 2016, CLÁR aims to support sustainable development in identified areas by attracting people to live and work there.
"The funding works in conjunction with local funding and on the basis of locally identified priorities.
“I am delighted that these organisations are supported by this funding announcement and I am sure that the funding will go a long way in terms of enhancing the amenities at these localities” concluded Deputy Ring
The successful projects receiving funding are as follows:
Ballyheane Football Club
Project: Provision of mobile 200 seater steel stand with canopy and integrated picnic area.
Cost: €47,115
Hollymount Carramore GAA Club
Project: Refurbishment of stand and accessibility works including ramped access to dressing rooms.
Cost: €37,620
Killala GAA
Project: Construction of a new carpark.
Cost: €50,000
Manulla Sporting Club (Manulla FC)
Project: Resurfacing of car park at Manulla FC.
Cost: €50,000
Charlestown Sarsfields GAA Club
Project: Community walkway upgrades.
Cost: €50,000
Kilmeena GAA Club
Project: Re-surface the driveways, carparks, and walkways in and around the club.
Cost: €50,000
Knockmore GAA
Project: Develop a community playground.
Cost: €49,950
Cumann Liathróid Láimhe Thuar Mhic Éadaigh
Project: Fencing and gate to existing playing court, application of non-slip paint, installation of spectator/player seating and lighting.
Cost: €19,800
Garrymore GAA Club
Project: Community centre upgrade.
Cost: €45,000
Kilmore Community Sports Field
Project: Upgrading of current lighting system as well as upgrading goal posts and nets.
Cost: €38,000
Crossmolina GAA
Project: Upgrade of car parking facility.
Cost: €50,000.
In a statement, Councillor Ger Deere has welcomed the allocations for Ballyheane and Manulla FC, both of which contribute hugely to their communities.