O’Shea Welcomes €225,000+ Arts Grants Investment for Cork County – Strong Support for Cork North West Communities

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has warmly welcomed the announcement that Cork County Council has approved over €225,350 in funding for 145 artists and arts organisations under the 2026 Arts Grants Scheme.

A record 370 applications were received this year – a 46% increase on 2025 – reflecting the growing strength and ambition of the arts sector across the county. The number of successful applicants has also risen by approximately 17%, highlighting the continued expansion of creative activity in local communities.

Deputy O’Shea said “This significant investment is a major boost for the arts across Cork, and I am particularly delighted to see such strong representation from groups and individuals across Cork North West. The arts play a vital role in enriching our communities, supporting local economies, and showcasing the unique cultural identity of our region.”

“The level of demand for this funding demonstrates the depth of creativity and talent we have locally. These grants will help ensure that festivals, performances, exhibitions and community initiatives can continue to thrive right across our towns and villages.”

The Arts Grants Scheme supports a wide range of initiatives, including community arts projects, festivals, artist residencies, and Irish language development. The funding will contribute not only to cultural life, but also to tourism, placemaking, and economic activity throughout the county.

Deputy O’Shea added “I want to commend all those who applied and congratulate the successful recipients. Their work makes an enormous contribution to community life in Cork North West and beyond.”

Cork North West Recipients – Arts Grants 2026

The following organisations and individuals in Cork North West have been approved funding:

• Castlemagner Sinsir Club – €500

• Glen Theatre Drama Group Banteer – €1,200

• Mallow Arts Collective – €3,000

• Maurice O’Keeffe Sliabh Luachra Traditional Music Festival – €1,800

• The Glen Theatre – €1,000

• Millstreet Comhaltas – €900

• Cor Mhagh Ella – €500

• Duhallow Choral Society – €1,000

• Cullen Pipe Band – €800

• Buíon Píobairí Bhéal Átha’n Ghaorthaidh – €800

• Irish Wheelchair Association – €570

• Kilmurry Active Retirement Association – €250

• Bruach na Carraige Heritage Centre, Rockchapel – €1,000

• CCE Craobh Lachtan Naofa, Cill na Martra – €500

• Scéim Aisling Gheal – €1,200

• Mallow Art Club – €330

• Mallow Camera Club – €800

• Handweavers Guild of Cork – €500

• Kiskeam Brass Band – €900

• Mallow Musical Society – €500

• CCE Baile Nua – €800

• Mallow Camera Club – €900

• Blackwater Photographic Society – €900

• Rockchapel Gathering Festival – €2,000

• One Town One Voice, Charleville – €1,000

• St Joseph’s Primary School, Charleville – €1,500

• Cois Laoi Productions – €900

• Comharchumann Forbartha Mhúscraí – €1,300

• Miriam O’Connor (Creative Arts Bursary Grant) – €3,250

• Rory Murphy (Creative Arts Bursary Grant) – €3,000

• Seiko House (Creative Arts Bursary Grant) – €3,000

Deputy O’Shea concluded “This funding ensures that the arts will continue to flourish in Cork North West in 2026, bringing people together, supporting local talent, and enhancing the vibrancy of our communities.”