€1.5m in community scheme

THE €1.5 million Cork County Community Development grant scheme will be made available to the LCDC (Local Community Development Committees.

Cork County Council, in association with the LCDCs, are releasing the money as phase one of a €3.5 million fund, with €500,000 from Cork County Council’s own funds being put aside on a yearly basis over seven years from 2016 to 2022.

These monies will be used to fund local development capital projects to a minimum of €1,000 and a maximum of €25,000.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council Tim Lucey highlighted how the Cork County Community Development Initiative was an example of the council’s continuing dedication to local communities.

“Through our three Local Development Committees, we are committed to improving the range and quality of community-based facilities, which will assist in providing the very best quality of life offering to our citizens,” Mr Lucey said.

“The Cork County Community Development Initiative, in cooperation with the Local Development Companies, can be used to enhance facilities in communities or to kick-start, advance or complete their projects.”

Mayor Patrick Murphy also reiterated the Council’s commitment to community development undertakings which improve the prosperity of both people and places.

“I know first-hand how important community and voluntary groups are,” he said.

“Not only are they an asset to their own communities, but there are an asset for Cork.

“This fund will give further recognition for the tremendous work and commitment given by all involved.

“I would encourage all groups to get their applications in.”

The closing date for receipt of applications is 3pm on Friday, December 14, 2018.

Applicants will be notified, if successful, in early March with a view to having all projects completed by September 30, 2019.