One of 47 projects in the Midlands region which will benefit from substantial funding allocations under the Just Transition Fund, a sum totalling €212,500 has been afforded to Ballinahown Community Development Ltd to assist with the community’s village hall restoration project.
News of the significant allocation was welcomed by local Fine Gael Councillor, John Dolan, who noted that the funding would ensure the community village hall becomes a sustainable facility.
“Major work was afforded to this application for funding and we are more than delighted with the realised outcome. The money allocated to the project will ensure that the community village hall is more sustainable with an improved heating system and a general upgrade of the facility.
“The stage will re removed allowing for more space within, while the addition of work station hubs will allow for a revenue stream. As we go forward, I believe there will be a big demand to use such work station hubs in local communities and I look forward to their positive impact when installed.
“The project is now fully funded and secures the future of our community village hall,” Cllr Dolan remarked.
Longford-Westmeath Fianna Fáil Minister of State, Deputy Robert Troy, welcomed the funding allocation noting the positive impact such finance will have within the Midlands region.
“I am very pleased to see approval of funding for projects based in Westmeath under the Just Transition Fund. Substantial funding has been approved for developing and supporting community projects within the county and this is a testament to the innovative and inspiring work carried out by Westmeath County Council, businesses, local groups, communities and more broadly across the Midlands regions.
“Their commitment to supporting communities is commendable and will contribute to the collective efforts to make the Midlands an attractive and sustainable place in which to live and work,” Deputy Troy remarked.
His constituent colleague in Government, Fine Gael Minister of State, Deputy Peter Burke, spoke of his regular interaction with groups seeking financial assistance through the programme and detailed their endeavours to ensure funding was received.
“I have met with many of the groups, who all put significant time and resources into very comprehensive project applications. It was clear from the beginning that if a Just Transition was to work, for real opportunity in the Midlands and economic activity and employment, significant money would have to be prioritised.
“I note the budget for this has greatly increased. I welcome the funding afforded to projects within the local community, while there are a number of initiatives included which will involve joint ventures between Midlands counties.
“This is an exciting day for Westmeath and the Midlands region and I look forward to seeing all those projects come to fruition to create employment and boost the local economy. This money will regenerate and renew these areas and will be government investment very well spent,” Deputy Burke asserted.
