Senator Garret Ahearn said: “Fine Gael is working to create stronger safer communities and in
Government we are prioritising programmes like the CLÁR Programme to achieve this. My colleague
Minister Heather Humphreys today announced €7 million nationally for the 2022 CLÁR Programme.
This is significant funding for rural communities, and it represents an increase of 25% on last year’s
allocation.
“Tipperary groups can apply now for CLÁR funding which supports small scale infrastructural projects in
rural areas that have experienced significant levels of population decline. The funding is for the
development of local facilities and amenities in rural areas.
“The Programme covers projects to enhance or develop the following facilities (not an exhaustive list)…
Multi-Use Gaming Areas (MUGAs)/Astro-Turf Facilities
Skateboard Parks
Playgrounds
Handball Alleys
Tennis Courts
Basketball Courts
Community Gyms
Community Cinemas
Sensory Gardens
Community Gardens
Outdoor Bowling Areas
Walking / Running Tracks
Outdoor Toilet Facilities
Car Parking
Public Lighting
“Voluntary organisations in Tipperary will be able to apply for funding to acquire wheelchair accessible
vehicles under this fund. This will facilitate free transport services to day- care and medical services for
people with mobility issues and for those attending cancer treatment centres.
“For the first time, Community First Responder Organisations, as well as Voluntary Search and Rescue
Organisations, can also apply for funding through CLÁR.”
“Local groups should check out the website of the Department of Rural and Community Development
for more information and details of how to apply Senator Garret Ahearn concluded.
This announcement comes on top of a recent announcement by Minister Humphreys of dedicated
funding under the Town Centres First policy, designed to support the regeneration of our towns and
villages with targeted funding to support above-shop and town centre living.
Speaking about the CLÁR Programme, Minister Humphreys added, “The priority of this year’s scheme
is the development of facilities and amenities which will enhance our rural communities.
“As part of Our Rural Future, I want to ensure in particular that young people living in rural areas have
access to amenities which they can enjoy with their friends, be it youth hubs, walking tracks, basketball
courts or skateboard parks.
“CLÁR provides small grants which can make a big difference and I am encouraging local community
groups, youth clubs, men and women sheds and sports clubs to apply via their Local Authority if they
have an idea for a project which could make a difference in their area.”
