Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys and Minister of State, Joe O’Brien, have today (Tuesday, January 24) set out the details of the €50 million Community Recognition Fund.

This initiative is designed to specifically support communities across the country that have welcomed and are hosting families and citizens from Ukraine and other countries.

Among the projects that will be supported under the fund are:

The €50 million has been allocated across all local authorities based on the number of new arrivals located there. The funding will be drawn down over 2023 and 2024.

Projects will be delivered by the local authorities in conjunction with community organisations.

The fund aims to support the development of facilities that will be used in the future by all members of the community.

Announcing the €50 million Fund, Minister Humphreys said: “I am delighted to announce the details of this major new investment for communities across Ireland. 

“Communities the length and breadth of the country have really stepped up to the plate in recent weeks, opening their homes and facilities to people very much in need.

“This fund is recognising the vital role our communities are playing as we continue to deal with many challenges, not least the war in Ukraine," she added.

The minister is now encouraging communities to engage directly with their local authorities in the coming weeks to ensure that high-quality projects can be delivered.

“The projects that will be supported are those that will benefit all members of our communities, young and old," Minister Humphreys continued.

Minister of State, Joe O’Brien added: “Today’s announcement will empower communities across the country in developing projects that directly address local needs. 

“I am confident that this new initiative will deliver tangible benefits to communities all across Ireland.”

The Department of Rural and Community Development has published the full details of the scheme (including funding allocations) on its website.

Applications are now being sought from local authorities on the basis of engagement with local communities and clear targeting of proposed projects to areas with the highest level of need.