Applications invited from Cork for funds in €11m Clár programme

Projects focused on developing community facilities and amenities across county Cork are being invited to apply for funding under the Clár 2025 programme, which has seen an increase of €2.3m.

The funding, announced last week by the minister for rural and community development, Dara Calleary, will see €11m invested to support small scale infrastructural projects in rural areas that have experienced significant levels of population decline.

The Clár programme, which provides funding to successful applicants under three measures, also aims to promote sustainable development and to attract people to live and work in the areas it covers.

Cork County Council is now calling for applications from local community groups under Measure 1: Developing Community Facilities And Amenities.

A minimum grant of €5,000 and maximum grant of €65,000 will apply to this measure, with the scheme allowing for two applications seeking grant funding of up to €100,000 and one additional application for funding of between €5,000 and €65,000 for a Gaeltacht area.

Measures two and three will be administered directly by the Department of Rural and Community Development.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, councillor Joe Carroll, said that the programme will provide community groups with an “excellent” opportunity for growth.

“Cork County Council was very successful [with the Clár Fund] last year, with all 15 applications put forward under Clár Measure 1 approved for funding,” said Mr Carroll.

“From mobile floodlights at Bantry Sports Hub to a refurbishment playground in Union Hall, a range of very worthwhile projects were made possible with the fund in 2024.

“The Clár programme provides communities with an excellent opportunity to develop or enhance recreational facilities in their area. I urge community groups to bring their ideas forward to their local municipal district office.”

The scheme will provide up to 90% of the cost, with the remaining 10% or balance of the cost provided in cash through local authority/community or other resources.

Philanthropic contributions will also be accepted as full or part of match funding costs, which must be in place at the time of application.

Applications to the fund will be accepted by local authorities up until May 9.