Five youth projects under Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board are set to share more than €52,000 in new capital funding.

A total of €52,829 has been allocated locally as part of a €1.6 million national fund aimed at improving youth services and facilities across the country.

The funding will support minor works, equipment purchases and upgrades, including improvements to digital infrastructure, accessibility, safety and security, recreation facilities and energy efficiency.

Ferrybank Youth Development Project has been allocated €5,675, while FDYS Cloisters Community Youth Project will receive €3,759.

FDYS Bunclody Area Youth Support has been awarded €18,500, Little Red Kettle will receive €5,504, while €19,390 has been allocated to Manor St John.

The funding was announced by Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton and is the first dedicated capital funding stream for minor works and equipment upgrades available to UBU-funded youth services since 2023.

Minister of State and Waterford TD John Cummins welcomed the allocation, saying it would allow services to modernise facilities, replace ageing equipment and improve the activities available to young people.

The national funding is expected to benefit more than 500 youth projects across Ireland.