€1,421,869 has been allocated for thirteen projects across Waterford under the Community Recognition Fund.
The fund was established by Minister Heather Humphreys to support the development of community infrastructure and facilities, in recognition of the contribution being made by communities across the country in welcoming and hosting significant numbers of arrivals from Ukraine and other countries.
Local Senator John Cummins (Fine Gael) has been among those to welcome the announcement.
“I want to compliment Minister Humphreys for firstly establishing such a fund and more importantly for the swift turnaround in applications. This €50 million fund was only opened in January, with a closing date of mid-March and now we see the funding being allocated today in mid-May. By any measure, that is a very quick turnaround for a €50 million fund and I am delighted that communities across Waterford city and county will benefit to the tune of nearly €1.5 million."
“This fund aims to support the development of facilities that will be used in the future by all members of the community, and I look forward to seeing the swift delivery of these projects on the ground across Waterford”.
Green Party TD Marc O'Cathasaigh has also welcomed the announcement.
"This funding is an important and welcome boost for Waterford communities who have opened their arms to Ukrainians and others in need of International Protection over the last 18 months. It’s in recognition of the community spirit Waterford people are known for and will be spent on projects which can be used and enjoyed by everyone.”
“Under the scheme, Tramore will get a new skateboard park, outdoor gym and an upgrade to the All Aboard Inclusion Playpark in Tramore with a €295,000 grant. €395,000 has been allocated to a pocket park in Thomas Street in the City; Dungarvan will receive €195,000 for a new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) and €145,000 has been allocated to the Lismore GAA Community Centre for an upgrade of their facilities. Dunmore East, Tallow and Modeligo will also benefit with funding allocated to these towns and villages in recognition of their support and solidarity with people fleeing war and seeking refuge.”
Cllr. Cristiona Kiely, Green Party Councillor for Tramore, City West added:
“The Tramore community stepped up to the plate when Ukrainians arrived here and did everything they could to welcome and support our newest residents at their time of need. I’m especially pleased to see this support and solidarity recognised through the allocation of funding for a new skatepark, outdoor gym and the upgrading of the Inclusion Playpark as these facilities will be enjoyed by everyone living in Tramore and also tourists.”
Successful Waterford projects:
- WAP, 28 Mary’s Street, Waterford City - Purchase of equipment for integration centre & upgrade building €17,000
- 8 Thomas Street, Waterford City - Develop a green space (pocket park) - €395,000
- St. Patrick’s Gateway Centre, Waterford City - resurface garden path, install benches and create a sensory garden €45,000
- RSC, Waterford City - relining upgrade of emergency lights & CCTV €45,000
- Central Library, Waterford City - create new meeting space and purchase equipment for same €45,000
- Tramore - Installation of outdoor gym, skateboard park & upgrade to existing sensory playground €295,000
- Dungarvan - Installation of outdoor gym €45,000
- WCCC & Autism Support Dungarvan - Installation of sensory equipment in council playground €45,000
- Dungarvan - Installation of MUGA at Dungarvan Sports Centre €195,000
- Lismore GAA Community Centre - Upgrade of facilities in community centre, dressing rooms and clubhouse €145,000
- Dunmore East - Installation of Outdoor Gym €45,000
- Tallow GAA - Develop community walkway around pitches €17,000
- Modeligo Community Development - Upgrade sports field facilities €17,000
Announcing the allocations this morning, Minister Humphreys said:
“As a nation we always respond to people in need and I am proud to say that we have stepped up to the plate again. As a Government, we recognise that this has put additional pressure on the facilities in some areas so this fund is to provide additional infrastructure that will benefit all members of our communities, young and old. I look forward to seeing the positive impact that this funding will have on the ground in communities all across Ireland.”
