Longford community groups to benefit from €600,000 funding allocation

Almost €600,000 in funding has been allotted to Longford under the Community Recognition Fund.

The funding has been dispersed to projects across County Longford, allowing them to deliver much-needed improvements for the community and sports facilities.

The funds will benefit St Mary’s GAA and LGFA in Granard, which have received €170,000 for a new Skills Training Zone4All.

The training area will include an Astro training and skills area on the grounds of the local GAA club.

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MacEoin Park Recreational Area has received €182,097 to revitalise an abandoned playing field with a new pitch, walking track, play area, handball and dedicated autism-friendly play area. €50,000 has been delivered to the Micahel Neary Park Management Committee for park refurbishment works and redevelopment of the soccer pitch and grounds.

A whopping €78,160 has been allotted for a recording studio at the Attic House in Longford Town which will assist and promote emerging young performers in the County. Longford Slashers GAA/LGFA Club has received €50,000 for resurfacing works which will see the refurbishment of a large carpark which services a GAA Club, local Gaelscoil and the Backstage Theatre.

Finally, the Edgeworthstown District Development Association have received €50,000 to upgrade the heating system and display equipment for the Maria Edgeworth Visitor Centre & Museum.

Many local politicians have come out in support of the funding.

“I am delighted to see close to €600,000 coming into Longford through the Community Recognition Fund. This funding will directly benefit our local communities by supporting sports clubs, upgrading recreational spaces, and improving cultural and youth facilities. Projects like the new Skills Training Zone at St. Mary’s GAA in Granard and key upgrades across the county will have a lasting positive impact,” said Longford TD Micheál Carrigy.

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Senator Joe Flaherty also commented on the announcement saying, “This is excellent news from Minister Dara Calleary. I want to commend Director Services, Michael Nevin and the team at Longford County Council for their work on funding and assisting the various groups and projects.”

Westmeath TD, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran said, “This is very welcome news.”