€1m announced towards greener communities

By Finnian Cox

29 Cork-based community groups will be taking steps towards a healthier environment after being allocated almost €1 million worth of funding for climate action.

The sum comes as part of a €2.6 million national investment in communities across the country, announced by Minister for Climate, Energy and Environment Darragh O’Brien.

One recipient, Knocknaheeny’s Niche Health Project will be using the climate funding to source cleaner energy for their group, via the installation of solar panels.

Additionally, they will upgrade their garden with a biodigester as well as a hot composter.

Executive director of the group, Jane O’Flynn said without the fund, their ambitions for the garden would be otherwise impossible.

“Spaces like our community garden give people the chance to connect with each other and nature, whether that’s through growing food, spending time outdoors or just being part of something locally,” said O’Flynn.

67 applications for funding were made to Cork City Council, which would have required more than €3.4 million worth of investment.

Though the fund is nearly €100,000 more than initially expected, the limited amount meant that 38 failed to meet the requirements on this occasion.

However, a further €1.2 million worth of projects were deemed to be of a high enough quality to be funded if additional resources become available.

The highest amounts given went to Blackrock GAA and Bruac Good Shepherd who each received €100,000.

All projects will commence immediately.

Chief Executive of Cork City Council, Valerie O’Sullivan described the community services as “the backbone of how things get done across the city.”

“This collaboration is one of the most effective ways to deliver tangible climate action and strengthen community resilience,” she said.

This article was produced with the support of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme funded by Coimisiún na Meán.