Offaly community services to receive Government funding
A total of 13 Offaly community services are set to benefit through funding announced by the Minister for Rural & Community Development & the Gaelteacht, Dara Calleary.
Among the receipients of the funding, which is spread across 400 organisations nationwide, are St Mary's Youth Centre in Tullamore, Crinkle Sports and Recreation Centre in Birr, the Clara & District Recreation Association, and Mucklagh Community Development.
Also set for funding are North Offaly Community Development Network Company in Daingean, Offaly Integrated Local Development in Tullamore, Birr Stage Guild, B.L.C. Developments Company in Tullamore, Kilcormac Development Association, Birr Development Company, West Offaly Training Company in Banagher, Ballycommon Tele Work & Training Centre in Tullamore, and Moneygall Development Association.
The Minister announced the funding for more than 400 organisations nationwide that are currently supported under the Community Services Programme. Fianna Fáil TD for Offaly Tony McCormack welcomed the funding and described the increase as 'much needed support' for groups that help sustain and strengthen local communities.
The revised funding rates, which will apply from January 1, 2026, include an increase of €1,260 in the annual contribution per post for organisations categorised as having a high funding need, an increase of €1,160 in the annual contribution per post for organisations categorised as having a medium funding need, and an increase of €400 per annum for all 351 CSP supported manager positions across all funding categories.
Speaking on the announcement, Deputy McCormack said: “Community organisations play a vital role across the country, supporting a wide range of groups and activities. It is now more important than ever that we continue to support these organisations so we can build and maintain strong community ties across Offaly. In many cases these groups support those most in need or provide an outlet for people to socialise and connect with others by offering a welcoming place to meet. Their work binds communities together through both good times and challenging periods.”