On 24th February 2025, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Dara Calleary, announced a significant €14 million investment to support 163 community-driven initiatives across Ireland. The funding, under the Community Recognition Fund, aims to enhance local infrastructures such as sports clubs, community centres, parks, and playgrounds. This announcement highlights the government’s continued commitment to rural regeneration and the development of local communities, particularly those welcoming new residents.
The fund, initially launched in 2023, acknowledges the vital role communities play in supporting the integration of new arrivals into Irish society. Projects funded today are concentrated in areas where communities have shown exceptional support for refugees and migrants.
Minister Calleary, during a visit to Dublin’s Inner City Enterprise (ICE), remarked on the importance of these investments: “This funding will transform vital community spaces, fostering inclusivity and growth in towns and villages that have embraced newcomers. These upgrades will help create thriving, sustainable communities for everyone.”
Among the funded projects are significant improvements to public spaces and facilities. Notable examples include:
- Cork City (McCurtain Street): €150,000 for the development of a Youth Centre and Café.
- Donegal (Letterkenny): €80,000 for a walkway project at St. Eunan’s GAA Club.
- Dublin City (Coleraine Street): €400,000 for refurbishment at the Social Enterprise Hub, supporting ICE’s expansion.
- Galway City (Fr Griffin Road): €240,000 to upgrade Fr Burke Park’s accessibility.
- Kerry (Tralee): €90,000 to purchase a minibus for the Kerry Women’s Centre.
- Louth (Drogheda): €69,863 for playground enhancements at Abacas Special School.
- Leitrim (Dromahair): €176,590 for refurbishing the Garda Station into a community hub and men’s shed.
Additionally, large-scale infrastructure projects include a €350,000 investment in South Dublin (Clondalkin) for an all-weather pitch at St. Francis FC and a €114,620 allocation for an astro-turf pitch in Mayo (Ballinrobe).
Minister Calleary emphasized that these investments are not only aimed at infrastructure but also at addressing specific community needs identified by local authorities. The latest phase of applications for additional funding remains open until 28th February 2025, with future funding rounds planned for later this year.
Minister of State for Community Development, Jerry Buttimer, also praised the efforts of local volunteers and community groups, acknowledging their role in making these projects possible. He emphasized the power of collaboration in creating vibrant, inclusive spaces for all community members.
The Community Recognition Fund is part of a broader initiative by the Irish government to support the development and regeneration of both urban and rural areas.
