More than €10 million in funding has been announced for the construction of two new community centres in Galway.
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys announced more than €30 million for 12 new community centres this weekend.
The Minister made the announcement while visiting Newcastle in Galway, which after this announcement, is to receive over €4.3 million to build a brand new community centre.
Larger still among the announcements is €6 million for the construction of a new community centre at Aras Lae in Moycullen.
This is the first time in the history of the State that a dedicated fund has been set up to deliver new-build community centres in Rural Ireland.
“Our community centres bring people of all ages together, whether it be for sporting, educational or social occasions,” Minister Heather Humphreys said.
“They are vital for engaging with those who may find themselves marginalised and they give everyone in the community a great sense of belonging.”
“They build, stronger, more vibrant communities – places that for so many people act as a home from home. You could say that the Community Centre is the cornerstone of community life in many towns, villages and cities around the country.”
The Community Centres Investment Fund – New Build Measure will invest in new build multi-functional community centres with a minimum grant of €1,000,000 up to a maximum of €6,000,000.
These projects are all on brown or green field sites and have all the necessary planning and consents secured so they are already at an advanced stage and ready to commence following a tender process.
“This funding is all about giving a helping hand to our local groups as they serve their communities with such dedication and generosity.”
“I am always struck by the immense pride communities have in their locality. The community centre is a safe, positive and accessible space for all manner of community activities and I want to ensure that community centres continue to remain a hive of activity.”
