Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, today announced €810,000 in funding to support 25 projects under the 2021 CLÁR Programme. The funding will support local groups in developing community and sensory gardens, outdoor spaces, and allotments.
In practical terms, communities will receive funding for the likes of raised flower beds, wildflower gardens, sensory planting, polytunnels, outdoor equipment, picnic tables, and shelters. All projects must adhere to the Leave No Trace principles. The 2021 CLÁR Programme is a key part of the Government’s five-year rural development strategy, Our Rural Future. This year alone, the scheme has delivered over €5.7 million for projects across the country.
Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said: “The projects receiving funding today will help to channel the real sense of pride that people in rural Ireland have in their localities and their environment. Funding for such community-led projects is at the very core of the Government’s vision for rural Ireland as set out in ‘Our Rural Future’.
The funding will go a long way in terms of assisting our Community Groups, TidyTowns, and Development Associations in making their localities more vibrant places to live and raise a family. This funding will lead to the creation of community spaces where people can come together and meet their families and friends. The initiative is also key in realizing our desire to build an even more environmentally responsible society. As Minister, I am delighted to support these 25 projects and I look forward to visiting many of them in the future.”
Read more on the website of the government of Ireland.