€3.7m Investment For Midlands Communities Hosting Refugees

The funding comes as part of a national €50m package.

Midlands communities which have welcomed refugees are due to benefit from a €3.7 million investment.

Minister for Rural Development, Heather Humphreys, has announced an additional €50 million for the Community Recognition Fund.

Westmeath will see the largest portion of that in the region, €1.7 million, while both Laois and Offaly will see just over €1 million, respectively.

The money will be used to refurbish or develop community facilities, schools and parishes, and transport infrastructure.

The funding is being welcomed by Offaly Green Party Senator and Junior Agriculture Minister, Pippa Hackett:

"The Community Recognition Fund, which is administered by the Council, has already benefited communities in Offaly, examples include support of the Offline Film Festival, Portarlington Concert Band and a combination of Tullamore sports clubs. 

Many communities, towns and villages are experiencing rapid change with the arrival of people from Ukraine and other countries. 

The response has been overwhelmingly positive and this fund recognises that, and the need for a whole of community approach. 

This new allocation of €1millon will undoubtedly see tangible and long term benefits delivered across the county, in consultation with communities and focused on areas that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries."

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