“I am delighted to be in a position to announce funding under the CLÁR programme of €2.78 million for play areas in rural communities. This follows on from last week’s announcement of funding of €4.8 million for safety measures around schools and community facilities in CLÁR areas.

“I have again decided that all applications that qualify under the Play Areas Measure of the programme will receive funding this year. These projects will make the areas in which they are located more attractive places for families to live in and settle, in line with the aim of the CLÁR programme.”

“Since I re-introduced the CLÁR Programme in 2016, it has provided funding to over 1,100 projects, including funding for 265 play and multi-use games area projects.

“I have seen at first hand the positive impact that this scheme has on remote rural communities around Ireland. A modest investment under the CLÁR scheme, such as the provision of a playground or play area, can have a significant impact on a rural community. By investing in these community play areas we are encouraging people to raise their families in rural areas.

“Communities themselves have fundraised and worked with their Local Authorities to put forward these projects for funding and this cooperation is to be acknowledged and welcomed. These projects are excellent examples of what can be done when everyone works together – resulting in new and improved recreational resources for children and communities in rural areas, and my Department is happy to support this significant investment to make these facilities a reality.

“Partnership and community involvement is vital in all areas of life, and that partnership and community spirit has been evident to me in small rural towns and villages all across the country, especially those who have benefited funding from my Department’s initiatives such as the CLÁR programme, the Rural Recreation Schemes and the Town & Village Renewal Scheme.”