Three services in Cork North West have been allocated funding for new vehicles to support their work in Cork, Fine Gael General Election Candidate Cllr. John Paul O’Shea has said.
The funding, under the CLÁR programme, may be used to purchase vehicles designed to transport people who have mobility issues or people undergoing cancer treatments, as well as for community groups who provide meals on wheels services, and search and rescue organisations.
Cllr. John Paul O’Shea said: “I am very pleased to see support for projects by Duhallow Community Food Services, Mallow/Charleville branch of the Irish Red Cross & the Irish Wheelchair Association (Cork) from my colleague, Minister Heather Humphreys, through the provision of new vehicle which will help individuals and communities right across the county.
“This investment will not only improve the quality of life for vulnerable individuals who benefit from the service in Cork, but also give a lifeline to families who depend on these critical services.
“The initiative will also strengthen the ability of local community groups in Cork to reach more people, ensuring nobody is left behind.
“Providing a means of transport is a practical solution to isolation and lack of access in Cork, particularly for older people living alone and patients traveling long distances for medical treatments.
“This year, the purchase of 48 vehicles for organisations across the country has been approved. It represents a significant commitment to rural development and social inclusion, which is at the heart of our government’s priorities.
“This is the highest number of vehicles ever funded through the programme, and today’s announcement brings the total number of vehicles delivered under this measure to over 200 since its introduction in 2018, with associated funding exceeding €10 million.
“Fine Gael is committed to delivering for rural communities in Cork by ensuring that they have the resources, infrastructure, and support necessary to thrive and prosper in the years ahead.” Cllr. O’Shea concluded.