Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The CLÁR programme provides funding for small-scale projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population over a defined period. Since the programme was relaunched in 2016, it has supported over 2,250 projects with funding of over €65.7 million. This funding is making a real difference in many of our smaller and more remote communities.

I launched the 2023 programme in March this year. Measure 1 of the programme will support the development of community facilities and amenities including sports facilities, youth clubs, playgrounds, sensory gardens and walking tracks. For the first time, the programme this year offers funding to carry out improvements to spectator stands at local GAA and other sports clubs.

I was pleased earlier this year to announce the approval of funding of over €2 million for 37 projects under measure 2 of the CLÁR programme.

Last week I announced funding of over €4.7 million for the first tranche of 113 projects under measure 1 of CLÁR, focussing on sports infrastructure initiatives. I plan to announce additional approvals under measure 1 and under measure 3 “Our Islands” in the coming days.