Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the Minister's response and her hard work in securing the €205 million in budget 2024. Mayo County Council has shortlisted several projects of significant importance in the 2023 scheme and I brought one such project to the attention of the Taoiseach last week with regard to the urgent need of the Order of Malta in Castlebar to demolish and rebuild its headquarters. It has submitted a funding request of €500,000. This group has been serving the community in Castlebar for the past 80 years. Securing this funding would enable the order to hold more events, enhance its training facilities, maintain the highest standards possible and ensure its ambulances and critical equipment are available at all times, even during peak times.

Other projects which have been shortlisted include the renovation of Kilmaine's community centre. This very active community is seeking €125,000 to fund the upgrade of these facilities. I understand the Minister cannot make any commitment tonight but I urge her to consider the invaluable contributions of these communities when allocating funding to projects. Her support would be greatly appreciated.

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