A little support goes a long way
MORE than €60,000 has been allocated to the rural villages of Ballygawley and Ballintogher and already the cash has been earmarked for projects to enhance the local communities.
Community activist Thomas Walsh was thrilled with the allocation. He says: “I am delighted. Following my application to Sligo County Council €61,120 has been approved for development of rural enterprise in Ballygawley and Ballintogher.
“This will consist of the upgrading of an enterprise unit in Ballintogher and the development of a piece of ground in Ballygawley.” (pictured right).
He continued: “I’m very pleased that following my meetings with the Council and subsequent application that funding has been announced as part of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.
“I want to thank Sligo County Council and in particular Michael Carty for his trojan efforts and co-operation in engaging with local and business communities to identify these projects.
“Most of the funding will benefit towns and villages like ours with populations of less than 5,000 people.”
At the announcement last week the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring TD, said: “This allocation more than doubles the €10 million allocated to the Town and Village Renewal Scheme last year. This is a clear indication of the Government’s commitment to making rural Ireland a more vibrant and sustainable place to live. This funding will be put to good use over the coming twelve months for the benefit of the people who live in rural Ireland.”
The allocation of €21 million by the Department of Rural and Community Development follows the roll out earlier this year of a range of other initiatives to support rural Ireland, including the CLÁR scheme, the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure scheme and the Local Improvement Scheme.
Deputy Martin Kenny welcomed the funding. He said: “These projects will provide essential infrastructure and increase tourism in rural areas and greatly help local economies.”