Funding

A proposed policy that intends to encourage and grow philanthropy in Ireland was announced this week by Minister for Community Development and Charities, Joe O’Brien. Ireland’s First National Philanthropy Policy is being developed by the Government in collaboration with key stakeholders. The public consultation phase of the policy was launched on May 23 at The Wheel’s Annual Summit.

The Department of Rural and Community Development has announced details of when the main capital investment schemes will be opening in 2023.

A new €13 million fund launched today (Monday, March 27) aims to tackle vacancy and dereliction in rural Ireland. The funding, under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, will see dozens of old, unused buildings transformed into multi-purpose community facilities.

Minister for Community Development, Integration, and Charities, Joe O’Brien yesterday (Tuesday, March 7) announced the expansion of the Empowering Communities Programme (ECP) to the Cherry Orchard area. The programme aims to empower local communities to craft their own response to area-based poverty, social exclusion and the resulting consequences, with the support of the relevant Local Community Development Committee (LCDC).

Funding of €2.4 million has been granted to develop 70 new walking trails across the country. The development forms part of a planned major expansion of the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Walks Scheme, which will see the number of outdoor trails increase from 80 to 150 over the next two years.

A funding scheme to support 134 community and voluntary groups with their energy bills was announced this week. Under the Community and Voluntary Energy Support Scheme (CVESS), small grants are provided to community groups, development associations, and volunteer-led organisations.

- Major initiative to support communities that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries - Funding for sports clubs, community organisations, transport infrastructure and local groups - Every local authority in the country to benefit

A new Strategic Plan to support social inclusion, enhance community development and combat social disadvantage has been launched by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys.