He was commenting after the latest LEADER approvals of €200,000 towards the development of an all-weather astro pitch at the People’s Park in Kilmihil and €30,000 towards the cost of renovating the Community Hall in Broadford.
Referring to the Kilmihil project, Deputy Carey said that the all-weather pitch would cost €483,857 to develop and, in addition to encouraging participation in sport for people of all ages and abilities giving a huge boost to the Community, it would also provide employment for those involved in its construction.
He added that the total cost of renovation work at Broadford Hall would come to €47,676 and this would improve access to intergenerational sport and recreational facilities for the entire local community.
“This increase reflects a significant expansion of activity over the last two years since Minister Ring introduced a range of measures to make the programme work better for both potential applicants and for Clare Local Development Company who are doing an excellent job in delivering the programme on the ground.
“As Chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Rural and Community Affairs, I want to see this momentum continue over the coming months and the funding for the approved projects drawn down as quickly as possible.
“LEADER funding represents an enormous opportunity for rural businesses and communities that are in need of investment and it’s great to see the programme continuing to grow and make a difference for rural Ireland over the coming years,” Deputy Carey concluded.
