Funding of almost 1.3 million granted for the development of 10 Cork East community centres – David Stanton

Cork East Fine Gael TD, David Stanton, has welcomed confirmation from the Department of Rural and Community Development that total funding of €1,267,421.75 will be allocated between ten local community projects under the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF).

The Community Centre Investment Fund provides grant support to local community groups for maintenance and upgrade works such as disability access and energy retrofitting while larger fund allocations will enable the further development of existing community facilities. The CCIF is divided into three funding categories, Category 1 (€10,000 to €25,000), Category 2 (€25,001 to €100,000) and Category 3 (€101,000 to €300,000).

Under the fund the following Cork East applications have been successful:

Association – Project – Allocation

• Killeagh Community Centre – improvement works – €25,000
• Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann – improvement works – €25,000
• Shanballymore Community Development Association – roof replacement – €36,390.94
• Buttevant Muintir Community Council CLG – upgrade works to include installation of a new fire alarm system, sanding and varnishing of hall floor and new doors and repainting of hall interior – €45,409.05
• Youghal Community Centre Project Ltd. – maintenance and fire proofing works, installation of a new ceiling and appropriate fire rated wall-cladding – €70,575.50
• Cobh (Great Island) Community Centre – installation of an external facility to assist with access and increase user numbers – €167,279.95
• Ballynoe Community Council – improvements to include replacement of floor and mains stage, upgrade to lighting and sound system, installation of CCTV and purchase of projector and screen – €172,632.38
• Kilworth Community Council Company – replacement of ceilings and roof and upgrade of building steeple – €206,651.06
• Carrigtwohill Community Council Company – upgrading and development of kitchen, toilet and cloakroom facilities – €218,482.87
• Midleton My Place Company – a first-floor extension to include two large multi-purpose rooms, counselling room, coffee room and toilets – €300,000

Speaking after the fund allocations had been announced, David Stanton said: “I am delighted to learn that ten separate community projects throughout Cork East Constituency have been granted funding under the latest round of Community Centre Investment Fund.

“These facilities form an integral part of our local communities, providing an essential outlet for engagement and exercise amongst people of all ages while also encouraging the further development of neighbouring organisations and amenities. This is an essential part of community life and one which has been recognised in the significant allocations granted to local projects.

“Such funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development will allow local centres to conduct access, heating and safety improvements where necessary or the upgrade or expansion of existing facilities. I have no doubt that these upgrades will be very welcome news to all involved in each community project, improving facilities for existing users while encouraging additional participation within the community. Congratulations to all successful applicants”, concluded David Stanton.