O’Shea Welcomes Expansion of CLÁR Programme and Inclusion of Buttevant and Doneraile

Fine Gael TD for Cork North West, Deputy John Paul O’Shea, has welcomed the opening of the CLÁR Programme for 2026 and in particular the inclusion of Buttevant and Doneraile among the additional areas now eligible to apply for funding under the scheme.

The programme, which is run by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, has been expanded this year following a comprehensive review of the eligibility criteria. As part of the expansion, 110 additional Electoral Divisions across 20 counties have been added to the programme, meaning that over one million people are now living in areas eligible for CLÁR support.

Deputy O’Shea said the addition of Buttevant and Doneraile is a very positive development for the communities in North Cork.

“I warmly welcome the opening of the CLÁR Programme for 2026 and particularly the inclusion of Buttevant and Doneraile among the areas now eligible for this important funding stream. These towns and their surrounding communities have strong and active local groups who work tirelessly to improve local facilities and amenities, and this programme can make a real difference in supporting those efforts.”

The CLÁR Programme is designed to support the development of rural areas that experience population decline and reduced access to services. Funding of €12 million has been allocated nationally for 2026.

Deputy O’Shea said the range of projects supported under the scheme means many communities will benefit.

“CLÁR has a strong track record of delivering practical improvements in rural communities. Funding can support projects such as playgrounds, sports and recreational facilities, youth spaces, walking tracks, sensory gardens and other community amenities. The addition of new eligible supports this year, including traffic safety measures linked to community facilities and initiatives to reduce light pollution, will also be very beneficial.”

The programme includes three measures:

Measure 1: Development of community facilities and amenities such as sports facilities, playgrounds, youth spaces, walking tracks and other local projects.

Measure 2: Funding for community vehicles used for services such as transporting cancer patients, community first responders and Meals on Wheels services.

Measure 3: Tailored funding to support offshore island communities under the Our Living Islands initiative.

Deputy O’Shea encouraged community organisations in the newly eligible areas to begin engaging with Cork County Council regarding potential projects.

“This funding has delivered excellent results in many rural communities over the years and I would strongly encourage community groups in Buttevant, Doneraile and surrounding areas to consider applying. I would also encourage groups with project ideas to make contact with Cork County Council to explore the opportunities available under the scheme.”

The CLÁR Programme for 2026 is now open for applications, with successful projects expected to be announced later in the year.