Waterford City has been selected as one of the areas to benefit from a new Government funding programme aimed at supporting communities experiencing high levels of disadvantage.
The new SÍOL (Scéim Infheistíochta ag Obair Le Chéile) programme was announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD, Minister of State for Community Development and Charities Jerry Buttimer TD, and Minister of State at the Department of Transport Seán Canney TD on Wednesday, 8 July.
The programme will provide targeted investment to improve public spaces, support health and wellbeing initiatives, enhance community safety and increase access to education and training opportunities.
Waterford City is included among the areas selected for support, with funding targeted at Ballybeg North, Larchville and Lisduggan. Waterford City and County Council will now be invited to submit proposals for projects under the scheme, with successful projects expected to be announced later in 2026.
A total of €31.5 million in capital funding has been secured up to 2030 under the National Development Plan to support the continued delivery of SÍOL. An initial €5 million has been allocated for projects in 2026.
The programme has been designed using analysis from the Central Statistics Office, Pobal’s deprivation index and research from the Economic and Social Research Institute to ensure investment is directed towards areas where it can have the greatest impact.
The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht said the initiative aims to support communities through locally focused projects that strengthen amenities, improve quality of life and create opportunities for residents.
The announcement builds on previous community investment approaches, with SÍOL intended to provide long-term support for areas facing significant social and economic challenges.
Waterford City and County Council will now work on developing proposals for eligible projects in Ballybeg North, Larchville and Lisduggan, with the aim of securing investment that will benefit local residents and communities.
