€200,000 Funding Sanctioned Under The Rural Development Programme

Phil Hogan, T.D., Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government announced today that he has given sanction to Comhar na nOileáin Teoranta to approve funding of up to €200,000.00 to Meitheal Oibre Chill Einne for the development of facilities at the football pitch on Inis Mor.

This funding, is provided under the Basic Services for the Economy and Rural Population measure of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2007-2013 and will provide the necessary financial support to allow the construction of male/female changing rooms, kitchen, meeting room, public toilets, a therapy room and a referee’s area. The building is designed for people with special needs in mind.

Announcing the funding Minister Hogan said: "The provision of leisure and sports facilities in rural communities is a very important aspect of the Rural Development Programme. Such facilities not only support social cohesion but also promote healthier lifestyles by facilitating exercise at all times of the year and in all weather conditions. The improvement in the quality of life that such facilities support is one of the main objectives of the RDP and as such should be supported and encouraged in rural communities throughout Ireland."

The LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme currently offer and will continue to offer significant financial resources to rural communities going forward. With a budget of €96 million for 2012 it is critically important that rural communities' all over Ireland continue to harness local energies in order to avail of the resources and further develop all aspects of their own communities.

(CD)