Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Denis Naughten, has announced a large increase to the Local Agenda 21 (LA21 ) Environmental Partnership Fund.
This fund, which has operated since 1997, supports local environmental initiatives by communities, individuals and not-for-profit groups.
The Minister has allocated funding of €460,000 to this year’s scheme, an increase of 15 per cent on funding in 2016.
Launching the scheme Minister Naughten stated: “I am delighted to announce today the launch of the Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund for 2017. Funding provided under this scheme supports local projects to improve the environment and make our communities more sustainable.
“The fund shows how local initiatives can make a real difference in our communities, and showcases how small changes can make lasting improvements to our environment. Together with the local authorities, my Department supported over 700 projects under this scheme last year, and I know that the increase in funding I have announced today will enable even more work to be done this year.”
The fund supports small scale non-profit environmental projects such as allotments, community gardens, compost schemes, rainwater harvesting schemes, educational initiatives, and environmental exhibitions.
“Funding provided by my Department is matched by the local authorities, and projects also attract funding from other sources,” added Minister Naughten.
Eligible projects are those that will support and complement, at a local level, national environmental policies such as those on waste, biodiversity, climate change, air, water and sustainable development. Groups seeking funding for eligible projects are invited to make an application to their local authority. Application forms are available directly from the local authorities.
Completed application forms should be returned to the relevant local authority at the latest by 5pm, June 23. Application forms, local authority contacts, and further information on the LA21 Environmental Partnership Fund can be obtained at www.dccae.gov.ie
