Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan TD, has initiated the call for applications for the Community Safety Fund 2025, doubling the fund to €4 million from proceeds of crime seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau and An Garda Síochána. The fund supports local projects to enhance community safety and is open for applications until May 16.
The fund’s expansion reflects the government’s commitment to building resilient communities and reinvesting seized criminal assets into safety initiatives. Past projects show a focus on reducing crime fears, enhancing community safety, and supporting vulnerable groups to prevent reoffending.
Managed by the National Office for Community Safety, the fund aims to:
- Direct proceeds of crime into safety projects
- Ensure effective proposals receive necessary funding
- Share best practices in community safety and youth justice
- Benefit from law enforcement efforts in seizing criminal assets
Minister O’Callaghan emphasizes community involvement in enhancing safety and encourages eligible groups to propose initiatives that strengthen local safety measures.
In 2024, projects addressing anti-social behavior, domestic violence, and social exclusion received over €3 million in funding. Successful themes included education, sports, and social programs to proactively address safety concerns.
Grants ranging from €20,000 to €150,000 are available for community safety initiatives, co-funded groups, and organizations working on safety and youth justice issues. Applications, due by May 16, can be submitted individually or by consortia with innovative approaches receiving special consideration.
For more information and to apply, visit www.gov.ie/communitysafety.
Reference: Information sourced from the Department of Justice’s announcement on the launch of the Community Safety Fund 2025.
Minister for Justice Jim O’ Callaghan Picture from jimocallaghan.ie
