New €6m fund aims to help deprived areas

A new fund of €6 million aimed at improving areas of social deprivation has been announced by Minister for Environment Dick Roche.

The money, which will be made available to local authorities, will help fund the upgrading of sports, cultural and community facilities.

Mr Roche said the money is being allocated in addition to existing grants and Government support for local authorities to support community development and tackle social exclusion. "Projects from within local authorities or from the community, in partnership with the local authority, are eligible under this scheme, with new initiatives particularly welcome," he said.

Improvements in access for the disabled are to be included in the grant scheme.

Mr Roche added that other initiatives may also qualify for funding. Local authorities have been invited to submit project proposals by May 19th.

Grants of at least €100,000 are available for each project selected.