Mayo minister announces CLÁR funding for Mayo projects

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD has today welcomed the allocation of €746,738 for 12 community projects across Mayo under the 2025 CLÁR Programme.

The funding forms part of a wider national investment of €12.3 million to support 206 projects in rural and island communities.

Of the 12 Mayo projects, 10 are funded under Measure 1: Developing Community Facilities and Amenities, while two island-based projects on Clare Island and Inishturk are supported under Measure 3: Our Living Islands.

Minister Calleary added: “The CLÁR programme continues to provide vital support in some of our most remote rural areas. These projects help build strong resilient and vibrant communities through the enhancement of existing community facilities and the provision of new amenities to support young and old across a range of services.

"Today’s announcement of over €12 million will see 206 projects being delivered in communities across the country and on our offshore Islands. I was particularly pleased to include a specific provision for projects in Gaeltacht areas this year. These projects will no doubt make a valuable contribution to the people who live in and visit these communities.

"With today’s announcement, I have now allocated €14 million to projects under CLAR this year – the highest allocation since the scheme was reintroduced in 2016. The funding continues to grow as we see the huge impact this funding has in our rural areas."

Minister Alan Dillon also welcomed the announcement: “This is a fantastic day for Mayo. These 12 projects will deliver real improvements in sport, recreation, accessibility, and sustainability. I’m especially proud to see Ballyvary, Straide and Shrule among the successful applicants, each one reflects the strength, ambition and inclusivity of our local communities.

“I’ve worked closely with many of these groups over recent months as they prepared their applications, and I’m absolutely delighted to see their efforts rewarded. These are grassroots-led initiatives that will make a lasting difference for families, young people, and older residents alike.”

The Mayo funding awards are:

• €65,000 for Ballyvary Keelogues Development Company Ltd to upgrade the astroturf facility.
• €58,044 for Straide NS Parents to develop wheelchair-accessible play areas.
• €100,000 for Glencorrib Kilroe Community Sportsfield Ltd in Shrule for a new MUGA and tennis court.
• €65,000 for Bonniconlon Youth Club to create a stoned entrance and car park for the youth centre.
• €50,564 for Kiltimagh Knock United Soccer Club CLG to refurbish the playground at Cloonmore.
• €52,216 for Crossmolina Community Council to develop a new spectator stand.
• €100,000 for SN Dhuoma Muigheach in Doohoma to install a new Multi-Use Games Area.
• €100,000 for Tullaghan Bay Rowing Club in Geesala to install a floating pontoon.
• €65,000 for Louisburgh GAA Club to install energy-efficient lighting along the walking track.
• €65,000 for Fahy Rovers FC in Westport to install a new spectator stand.
• €22,958 for Clare Island Community Centre to install a generator (Measure 3).
• €37,956 for Inishturk Community Hub to install a battery system for solar panel storage (Measure 3).

Minister Dillon added: “These projects will enhance the quality of life for people of all ages, whether through inclusive play facilities, safer and more sustainable sports infrastructure, or improved amenities on our offshore islands. I want to sincerely thank Mayo County Council for their guidance and support throughout the application process. Their partnership has been instrumental in securing this funding.”

Minister Dillon concluded: “This is about building vibrant, future-ready communities in Mayo and across rural Ireland. I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure our county receives the investment and recognition it deserves.”

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