Funding of Nearly €1m Awarded to Cork City Community Groups through the Community Climate Action Fund

A total of almost 1 million euros worth of funding was allocated for communities in Cork City to carry out tangible climate action. Minister for the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment, Darragh O’Brien, announced the funding as part of a national investment in developing low carbon communities across the country. Due to the success of the first round of funding and the high quality of the applications received, the Minister also announced a further €2.6 million to be allocated nationally. Cork City received €107,000 more than originally expected.

Niche Health Project in Knocknaheeny is one of the beneficiaries of the funding and they will be using it upgrade their garden with a biodigester, hot composter and install solar panels.

Jane O’Flynn, their Executive Director said:

“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. The Community Climate Action Programme funding helps us to realize dreams for the garden that would otherwise not be possible.”

Chief Executive of Cork City Council, Valerie O’Sullivan said;

“This is very welcome news for Cork City. Our community organisations and services are the backbone of how things get done across the city. The first round of Community Climate Action Programme funding demonstrated how effective we can be in reducing operational costs and future-proofing communities. The additional funding announced by Minister O’Brien for climate action projects recognises the value of local authorities working in partnership with our communities. This collaboration is one of the most effective ways to deliver tangible climate action and strengthen community resilience.”

Cork City Council received 67 applications from community groups across the city, representing €3.4 million worth of projects. Of these, 29 projects were successful. 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.

Projects will commence immediately and will deliver long-term benefits for communities across the city.

Fund Recipients and Projects: