Over half a million euro for Offaly community climate projects

A total pf €501,831 has been awarded to community climate projects across Offaly.

The funding is being made available through local authorities to support communities in building low carbon and sustainable futures.

An additional €2.6 million has also been announced to support larger scale projects identified by local authorities through reserve lists, with successful projects under this funding stream due to be communicated to councils in the coming days.

The funding forms part of a wider national investment announced by Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, with almost €27 million being awarded to more than 650 projects nationwide. The programme supports a range of community led initiatives aimed at reducing emissions, improving biodiversity and strengthening sustainability at a local level.

Fianna Fáil TD Tony McCormack welcomed the allocation, saying: “Local communities are at the heart of our efforts on climate change, while also contributing to our national climate and energy goals. They are leading the charge and it is essential they are supported. That is what this money will do and it provides funding to ensure even more of these ambitious community projects can move forward so we can achieve our climate goals. Right across Offaly I know people and groups who are passionate about making a difference, and I believe Government should support them in doing so.”

Projects funded under the programme have already delivered significant benefits for communities including lower energy costs, enhanced biodiversity, wildlife restoration, improved public amenities and stronger community engagement.

The scheme is administered through the network of Community Climate Action Officers within local authorities, who work directly with communities to provide guidance, support and practical assistance in delivering lower carbon and more sustainable projects.