Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring, has allocated €145,203 to Mayo under the community enhancement programme. More than €4.5 million will be provided to disadvantaged communities in rural and urban areas throughout the country through the Community Enhancement Programme.
Typical enhancements under the community enhancement programme could include the renovation of community centres, community amenities, improvements to town parks and common areas and spaces, CCTV equipment, and energy efficiency type projects.
Minister Ring said: “This scheme will provide funding to communities to enhance facilities in disadvantaged areas. Some is ring fenced for smaller projects, from lawnmowers and IT equipment to minor renovations in buildings.
"It also provides funding to contribute to larger projects in disadvantaged areas. This programme helps support important work by communities and I am delighted that my Department can help in this way’’
The scheme builds on and replaces the communities facilities scheme and the RAPID programme that were launched last year by the Department. The amalgamated scheme has been put in place following consultation with the 33 local community development committees across the country. An increased level of funding has been provided to each area.
Minister Ring said: “Last year Mayo received €64,500 under the RAPID Scheme so today’s allocation represents a significant increase on 2017.”
The investment has proved extremely popular with the local community as it has helped to deter antisocial behaviour and made people feel safer in their community. The funding is provided to Mayo County Council and applications for funding can be made to the local LCDC which will decide on projects in a manner consistent with the Local Economic and Community Plan.
The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday, July 30.
