Community groups in rural areas urged to seek funding

2022 Clar programme open for applications

Community groups are being encouraged to apply for funding under the 2022 CLÁR Programme, which opened today.

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, formally launched the programme today with a pot of €7M available.

CLÁR provides funding for small scale infrastructural projects in rural areas that have experienced significant levels of population decline. Grants of up to €50,000 are available for qualifying groups.

Community groups are encouraged to consider applying for funding for projects such as the provision of youth hubs, multi-use gaming areas (MUGAs), skateboard parks, playgrounds, handball alleys, community cinemas and gyms and much more.

Minister Humphreys has increased funding for the 2022 CLÁR programme by over 25% this year, in recognition of the importance of the programme to some of the most remote rural areas.

“The priority of this year’s scheme is the development of facilities and amenities, which will will enhance our rural communities," said the Minister.

“I want to ensure in particular that young people living in rural areas have access to amenities which they can enjoy with their friends be it youth hubs, walking tracks, basketball courts or skateboard parks," continued the Cavan Monaghan TD.

New measures under this year's scheme include funding to enable voluntary organisations acquire wheelchair accessible vehicles and applications from Community First Responder organisations and voluntary Search and Rescue organisations.

Fine Gael Senator Joe O'Reilly welcomed the funding.

“The funding is for the development of local facilities and amenities in rural areas," he said.

Adding to Minister Humphreys' list, he suggested that qualifying projects might also include astro turf facilities, tennis courts, basketball courts, sensory or community gardens, outdoor bowling areas, walking/running tracks, toilet facilities, carparking and public lighting, among other facilities.

Full details of the Programme and application process are available on the Department’s website https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/91ba52-clar/