MAYO Fine Gael Deputy Alan Dillon has announced details of projects throughout County Mayo who will receive over €2,254,126 as part of the newly launched €50 million Community Recognition Fund.
This substantial funding will provide crucial support to communities that have opened their doors to families and citizens from Ukraine and other countries.
It aims to support projects that benefit people of all ages within the community, including the development of playgrounds, parks, community centres, as well as investments in transport infrastructure such as community vehicles and bus shelters.
Projects include a new skate park for Castlebar and the refurbishment of the community toilet facilities in Murrisk and Keem, Achill.
The Community Recognition Fund is an innovative initiative designed to specifically assist communities that have welcomed and are hosting individuals from Ukraine and other countries. The fund aims to enhance the lives of residents by supporting a variety of projects across different sectors.
Mayo County Council has been allocated €2,254,126, which will be utilised between 2023 and 2024 in collaboration with community organisations to implement projects that will benefit all members of the community.
Said Deputy Alan Dillon: “This substantial funding will support a wide range of projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life and well-being of Mayo communities. These projects have been carefully chosen based on feedback from affected communities and identified needs within the area. They are designed to be inclusive, accessible, and feasible, ensuring that all members of the community can benefit.”
Deputy Dillon acknowledged the role of Mayo County Council in administering the scheme, saying he has worked closely with them to secure the funding and ensure the successful delivery of high-quality projects that will benefit towns and villages in Mayo for years to come.
Deputy Alan Dillon recognises and appreciates the tremendous efforts and contributions made by communities in Mayo. This funding is a testament to their unwavering commitment and resilience in accommodating and integrating individuals from Ukraine and other countries, he said.
The funding allocation includes the following.
Knockmore: Upgrade recreational trail, short loop for all abilities, €82,000.
Ballina: Herbicide-free foam treatment system for vegetation removal, €23,000; Upgrade of Ardnaree recreational walk, €44,000; Upgrading of lighting system in Ballina Arts Centre, €32,000; Resurface astro pitch at Belleek, €25,000; Electrical works, CCTV, insulation at Dick Hearns Boxing Gym, €37,000; Support for Ballina Chamber of Commerce, €38,000; Support for River Moy Search and Rescue – two boat engines, €25,000; Upgrade and resurface of Killala – Ballina Greenway, €27,000.
Crossmolina: Purchase and installation of outdoor gym equipment, €10,000.
Bonniconlon: Purchase and installation of outdoor gym equipment, €10,000.
Ballyhaunis: Enhancement and extension of soft surface areas at playground, €75,000; Renovation of a community facility – Ballyhaunis Chamber of Commerce, €41,650.
Claremorris: New junior playground equipment and soft surfacing, €75,000; Equipment upgrade at Claremorris Swimming Pool and Leisure Centre, €41,655; Labour, equipment hire, topsoil, and planting, €25,000.
Pontoon: Lough Cullen lakeside amenity – Picnic tables, seating, and landscaping, €75,000.
Kiltimagh: Amenity and biodiversity park – lighting for evening and night time use, €75,000.
Swinford: Adjoining loop walk at Swinford Amenity Park, €75,000.
Breaffy: GAA upgrade – pitch lighting and kitchen facilities, €75,000; Enhancement of community facilities and walks, €125,000.
Castlebar: Construction of new skatepark, €120,000; Construction of new jetty pier at Lough Lannagh, €120,000; Support for Mayo Cancer Support, €25,000; Support for Castlebar Celtic FC, €42,350; Support for Castlebar Athletic Club, €27,000.
Islandeady: Fencing and upgrade works to community park and pitch, €25,000; Islandeady village enhancement scheme, €43,000.
Balla: Equipment for Balla Community Sports Club, €25,000; Upgrades to the playground and town park, €25,000.
Westport: Playground on Golf Course Road, €20,000; Playground at Westport Leisure Park, €40,000; Skatepark, €35,462; Refurbishment works to Westport Leisure Centre, €40,000; Installation of amenity facilities at The Point, €60,000; Refurbishment works at Quay Community Centre, €25,000; Westport Christmas lights, €40,000; Anti-graffiti project, €20,000; Outdoor street furniture, planting and painting, €20,000; Restructuring of fire entrance at St. Anne’s Boxing Club, €32,345; Provision of floodlighting to natural turf pitch, €30,000.
Murrisk: Refurbishment of community toilet facilities, €130,000; Refurbishment works to Murrisk playground, €10,000; Purchase of outdoor street furniture, €5,000.
Achill: Refurbishment of community toilet facilities at Keem, Achill, €130,000; Refurbish library, €10,000; Provision of tarmac walkway at Davitt Park, €35,000.
Mayo: TFI Local Link Mayo – Flexible community electric car service, €82,664.
The news has also been welcomed by Minister of State Dara Calleary and Deputy Michael Ring.