The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and the Department of Health and Children have approved an allocation of EUR237k from the Dormant Accounts Fund to support 3 local projects for people with disabilities. Clare Local Sports Partnership Company Limited receives EUR125k while Brothers of Charity Services Clare has been allocated combined funding of EUR112k for two separate projects.

According to Minister Killeen, "Today's announcement of funding will enable the Clare Local Sports Partnership to provide opportunities for persons with a disability to participate in sport and physical activity by way of the appointment of Sports Inclusion Development Officer. Meanwhile, the Ennis-based Brothers of Charity Services has received the necessary funds (EUR12K) to enable people with profound disabilities travel to sporting or musical events, while a further EUR100k grant will enable it to equip frontline staff with core skills to effectively support individuals with challenging behaviour."

He continued, "All in all these projects are hugely positive developments for local people with a disability, their families, carers, support workers, and organisations in the community that assist people with a disability to live and participate in community life."

"This Government remains committed to improving and making a practical difference to the lives of people with disabilities, to promoting their integration into society, to changing attitudes and to combating the discrimination and poverty they experience", added the Minister.

"This is the latest in a series of funding announcements affecting persons with a disability. Earlier this year, the Government's Independent Living Support Programme delivered allocations totalling EUR16k and EUR47k to Banner Housing Association and Brothers of Charity Services respectively", concluded Minister Killeen.

Disbursements from the Dormant Accounts Fund target three broad categories of persons, including those affected by economic and social disadvantage, those affected by educational disadvantage and persons with a disability.

ENDS

Note to Editors:
Minister Tony Killeen (087-2525304) is available for interview and further comment. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 086-8534900 or media@dunphypr.com

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
Clonboula,
Connolly,
Ennis,
County Clare
IRELAND
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