Funding for 93 Gathering events

NINETY-three Clare groups and organisations hosting Gathering events during 2013 have been successful in their applications for funding.

The gatherings, divided into key county flagship events and community gatherings, are being funded under the IPB Gathering Ireland Fund. Clare County Council, which is administering the €55,000 local fund, is providing additional funding of €5,200 to support local events and gatherings that are being held as part of the largest tourism initiative ever in Ireland.

Approximately 230 events are expected to take place throughout the county during the year.
Clare Gathering chairperson Ger Dollard said the key objective of the funding is to provide financial support to local and community Gathering event organisers and activities, which will attract overseas visitors to Clare during 2013.

“We were very pleased at the huge response received to the request for funding applications during November and December and are delighted that so many local Gathering events have received funding,” he added.

Mr Dollard praised community groups, clubs, organisations and individuals across Clare for their contribution to “developing one of the country’s most diverse and exciting calendar of events for The Gathering”.

“The Gathering Ireland 2013 is Ireland’s biggest ever tourism initiative, providing an opportunity for those with ancestral links or an affinity to Ireland to play a part in and benefit from our economic recovery. The people of Clare are certainly playing their part and I wish to congratulate those who have given selflessly of their time and energy to organising events in their respective communities,” he said.

The Gathering Clare 2013 will be officially launched at the Gathering Clare Festivals & Events Expo in Glór, Ennis this Sunday from 2pm to 6pm. Members of the public are being invited to attend the free event, which will feature exhibits of 100 of the estimated 250 Gathering festivals and events taking place throughout the county during 2013.

The Gathering Clare 2013 Festivals and Events Guide will also be available on the day.