Funding boost for local centres

EIGHT community facilities across North and East Galway will benefit from more than €160,000 in funding under the Community Centre Investment Fund 2026.

The funding announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary, will support a range of refurbishment works, facility improvements, energy upgrades and other essential projects.

The community facilities to receive a part of the funding include Athenry Association Football Club, Moanbaun (€25,000); Athenry Community Hall (€12,000); Colemanstown Community Hub, Ballinasloe (€22,643); Fohenagh Killure Kilgerril Community Centre, Ahascragh (€18,000); Garrafrauns Community Centre, Dunmore (€25,000); Kilconly Community Centre(€22,064); Lackagh Parish Centre, Turloughmore (€19,901) and Mountbellew Community Centre (€20,500).

Junior Minister for Transport, Séan Canney described the investment as a “very good news” for the communities.

“This funding will allow local groups to carry out important improvements to their facilities, ensuring they remain welcoming, accessible and fit for purpose for the people who use them,” said Minister Canney.

The allocation of €165, 108, forms part of a national investment of more than €5.6 million announced for 279 community centres across Ireland.

The scheme provides grants of up to €25,000 for smaller improvement and refurbishment works.

A further funding under the Category 2 of the scheme providing grants of up to €100,000 for larger projects is also expected in the coming months.