Mayo has received the largest allocation in the country for Clár funding dedicated to works on non-national roads.
Over one tenth of the total national budget of €6 million is being allocated to Mayo, amounting to €685,766.15.
The announcement was made this week by Éamon Ó Cuív TD, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, and Noel Dempsey TD, Minister for Transport, and has been welcomed locally by Deputy Dara Calleary.
Said Dep Calleary: “In this round of funding, Mayo is to receive €685,766.15. That is the highest county allocation and it will translate into significant improvements in non-national roads in Clár areas in County Mayo.”
Dep Calleary explained that it is the Government’s aim to improve access to rural areas: “The county allocation was determined by the percentage population of the total population in Clár areas. It is the aim of the Government to continue to improve access in rural areas and to invest in rural infrastructure in order to close the gap that often exists between Clár areas and the rest of the country.”
Mayo County Council must now submit details of its proposals for funding for individual projects and all projects must be additional to those already selected under each local authority’s own work programme for 2008.
“Good roads are essential to combat isolation at a local level and economic disadvantage at regional level. In providing money for improved roads, the Clár programme is helping to close the infrastructure gap that often exists between Clár and the rest of the country,” said Minister Ó Cuív.
“This funding being provided for local road projects in Clár areas will play a crucial role in improving the quality of life of many people by providing improved access to employment, training, educational and social opportunities," added Minister Dempsey.
