atest press release from Cllr Stephen Stokes, issued on Thursday, January 26th 2023…
Cllr Stephen Stokes has welcomed an initiative to support communities that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries.
The €50 million Community Recognition Fund will be made available to fund community organisations, local groups, sports clubs and transport infrastructure. Every local authority in the country will benefit, with Wicklow set to receive €1,680,887.
Cllr Stokes stated: “This is good news. Wicklow has contributed positively to welcome Ukrainians to the county. Many local people have shared their homes with those fleeing the awful invasion of Ukraine. Of course the Tiglin team have done amazing work in Greystones, opening up their facility. Plus many local people have donated items, with several groups bringing crucial supplies to Ukraine, or the border areas.
“From Day 1 the people of Wicklow have been right behind the Ukrainian people. I saw this first hand with the turnout at Rally for Ukraine in Greystones, that was co-organised with my close personal friend and saviour, Viv Collins.”
This initiative is the first of its kind. It is designed to specifically support communities across the country that have welcomed and are hosting families and citizens from Ukraine and other countries. The first €30m of the Fund will be available in 2023. The next €20m will come on stream in 2024. A minimum spend of 60% must be incurred by Irish local authorities in 2023, with the remaining 40% in 2024. Among the projects that will be supported under the fund include:
• The refurbishment of local sports clubs and facilities. • The upgrade of community facilities such as play areas and community gardens. • The purchase of equipment to benefit arts organisations, clubs and festivals. • The enhancement of school or parish facilities that are open to the wider community after hours or on weekends. • Transport infrastructure such as community vehicles and bus shelters.
Cllr Stephen Stokes concluded: “This funding will provided a boost for local communities. There are many key areas that need investment.
“I am glad that the Government have acknowledged the contribution of local people across the country.”
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