Funds available for community groups

Community groups and environmental organisations across the county are being enouraged to submit applications for funding under the Local Agenda 21 (LA21) Environmental Partnership Fund 2017.

Clare County Council, which administers the Fund in conjunction with the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, says the financial support scheme is aimed at community projects that help to increase local levels of environmental awareness and help communities become more sustainable.

“This Fund promotes sustainable development by assisting small scale, non-profit environmental projects at local level,” explained Karen Foley, the council’s environmental awareness Officer.

She added, “Projects should focus on environmental awareness and actions which complement national environmental policies such as those on waste, biodiversity, climate change, air, water and sustainable development.

“A wide variety of projects and schemes have been supported under the fund in previous years, including community gardens and allotments, compost schemes, rainwater harvesting, biodiversity projects, waste prevention and reduction initiatives, educational initiatives and environmental exhibitions. Lists of previously funded projects can be viewed online at www. dccae.gov.ie.

Applications must be made directly to Clare County Council Environment Section no later than 5pm on Friday, June 23 by completing the application form, available to download from www.dccae.gov.ie.