More than €1.3m allocated to help climate projects in Cork

More than €1.3m in funding has been allocated towards local community climate projects across county Cork.

The funding is part of a wider national investment announced by the minister for climate, energy, and the environment, Darragh O’Brien, with almost €27m being awarded to more than 650 projects nationwide.

The funding is being made available through local authorities to support communities in building low carbon and sustainable futures.

Among the groups that have received funding in Cork include the Freemount Community Development Association (€87,460), Macroom Community Leisure Centre (€70,478), and the Ballineen and Enniskeane Development Association (€51,460).

Other groups in Cork that have been allocated funding for projects include the Kilcorney Community Development Association (€61,006), Kanturk GAA (€35,491), Millstreet Community Council CLG (€35,910), and Charleville Golf Club (€19,417).

Projects funded under the programme aim to deliver significant benefits for communities including lower energy costs, enhanced biodiversity, wildlife restoration, improved public amenities, and stronger community engagement.

Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North West and minister of state Michael Moynihan said that the projects that have been allocated funding showcase how communities can take real action on climate change at a local level.

“Local communities are at the heart of our efforts on climate change, while also contributing to our national climate and energy goals. They are leading the charge and it is essential they are supported,” 

Mr Moynihan said.

An additional €2.6m has also been announced to support larger scale projects identified by local authorities through reserve lists, with successful projects under this funding stream due to be communicated to councils in the coming days.