rural development

Community development workers and volunteers have been thanked for their "vital" work and their "staggering" output amidst unprecedented challenges.

A new programme was launched last week aimed at enhancing the performance of organisations supported under the Community Services Programme (CSP). 

A Budget package worth €472 million has been allocated to the Department of Rural and Community Development for 2025. A number of community and voluntary organisations, including Irish Rural Link were critical of the allocation, with CEO Seamus Boland saying the €472 million “pales in comparison to the amount of money available in the Budget”.

There was a mixed response from the community and voluntary sector to the launch of Budget 2025 this week. Some measures have been welcomed as a step in the right direction, but many organisations expressed the view that it didn’t go far enough to help those who need it most.

• Idea modelled on men's sheds which have track record in tackling isolation • 

More than €2.1 million has been allocated to provide 48 vehicles for a number of services including cancer care, transport for people with mobility issues, and to deliver meals on wheels to the elderly and other vulnerable people.

A funding boost of €2.6 million has been announced by the Department of Rural and Community Development to support a wide range of Town Centre First projects across Ireland.

The closing date for applications to the Community Centre Investment Fund has been extended to 3pm this Thursday, September 5