North Cork Fine Gael Councillor John Paul O’Shea has confirmed that the Mallow/Charleville Red Cross Branch will receive €50,000 for the purchase of a new vehicle, under the 2019 CLÁR Programme.
Nationally, 30 first responder organisations in rural areas have received government funding under Measure 3A, totaling €567,000. The funding details were announced by Cllr. O’Shea colleague and Minister for Rural & Community Development, Michael Ring TD.
Cllr. O’Shea commented: “I am very pleased that €50,000 has been allocated to the Mallow/Charleville Red Cross for a new vehicle. The Branch covers the towns of Mallow and Charleville as well their surrounding villages, and carry out vital, life-saving work in the North Cork area.
“Measure 3A of the 2019 CLÁR Programme relates to First Responders Support and funding is aimed towards a range of supports, including vital vehciles and trailers for rescue groups, training materials for local ambulance groups, and defibrillators and cabinets for local communities.
“First Responder community-based volunteer organisations perform life-saving work. They need to have proper vehicles and equipment to make sure that they can perform their work and that’s exactly what this funding will provide. This support will mean that if someone gets into difficulty, these groups will be better equipped to help them,” Cllr. O’Shea said.
Minister Ring commented: “I am delighted to be in a position to announce further funding under the CLÁR programme of over €567,000 for 30 first responder groups in rural areas around the country who provide an excellent service often under very difficult circumstances.
“This announcement builds on the funding of €2.4 million that I have provided to organisations around the country since 2017 under this measure. Since I reintroduced the CLÁR Programme in 2016, it has provided funding to over 2,000 projects throughout the country under various measures.
“I’m delighted to support these community-based organisations in the vital work they do. This government supports and invests in community groups throughout the country because we recognise the invaluable contribution they make to our society.
“No one epitomises this contribution more than voluntary first responder groups. I have great respect for the volunteers that put themselves on the line in order to help others. I know that this funding will go towards keeping members of our communities safe and well,” he said.
The CLÁR programme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and forms part of the Government’s Action Plan for Rural Development.
