Minister Joe O’Brien launches 2024 Community Recognition Fund, with €1,538,572 allocated for Fingal County Council

€1,538,572 allocated for Fingal County Council under the Community Recognition Fund to support communities that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries

Funding proposals will be developed in consultation with local communities

The Community Recognition Fund was first introduced last year to recognise the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland.

Under today’s announcement, a further €1,538,573 is being provided to Fingal County Council to deliver projects over 2024 and 2025.

This funding is for projects supporting cities, towns and villages nationwide that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries.

Fingal, in collaboration with its communities, will be funded to develop projects that will deliver long term benefits to those living in the areas selected.

Launching the Community Recognition Fund, Minister O’Brien said:

“The Community Recognition Fund announced today gives local communities another opportunity to expand and improve local facilities to continue to meet the needs of communities as they change and develop over time. 

“I’d encourage communities to use this funding opportunity to consider projects that will add benefit and help meet local needs in their area.”

Projects that will be funded include:

Development or refurbishment of community or cultural facilities including play areas, walkways, parks, community/sensory gardens, allotments, and recreational areas;

Development or refurbishment of local club and sports facilities;

Enhancement to school/parish facilities which are open to use by all of the community after school hours;

Purchase of equipment for local clubs, festivals, community events and organisations

Transport infrastructure such as community vehicles

Minister O’Brien also said:

“As a Government we are keenly aware that this crisis has placed some pressures on community facilities in certain areas.

“This announcement is very welcome news to these communities who can now address some of the challenges faced and improve community facilities for all in their areas into the future.”

The €50 million has been allocated across all local authorities based on the number of new arrivals located there.

The Department has published the full details of the scheme (including funding allocations) online and local authorities are now encouraged to commence engagement with local communities to develop impactful and beneficial community projects in areas with the highest identified level of need.