Environmental action fund launched for Waterford communities
Pictured at the announcement of the Local Environmental Action Fund with Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh District Area, Cllr. Seanie Power were members of Bunmahon Tidy Towns and Waterford City and County Council, Johnny Hurley; Billy Crowley; Cllr. Catherine Burke; David Rees; Orlaith Brady; John Hogan IPB Insurance, Cllr. Liam Brazil, Ella Ryan, Dawn Wallace, Brian Fleming, Gabriel Hynes, Claire Kenny and Cian Gill.Photograph: Patrick Browne
Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh District Area in Co Waterford, Cllr. Seanie Power, officially launched the Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) in Bunmahon on Tuesday, June 23.
The fund is a new initiative aimed at supporting communities across the Déise county to deliver practical environmental improvements and enhance local biodiversity.
The fund, supported by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and administered locally, will provide financial assistance to community groups, resident associations, and voluntary organisations to undertake projects that promote environmental sustainability, climate action, and improved local amenities.
Projects eligible for funding include biodiversity enhancement, habitat creation, community gardens, litter reduction initiatives, environmental awareness campaigns, and small-scale climate action projects.
Speaking at the launch, Cllr Power, said: “The Local Environmental Action Fund represents a valuable opportunity for communities across Waterford to take the lead in protecting and enhancing their local environment. We know the strength of our communities lies in their willingness to get involved, and this fund will empower groups to deliver meaningful change at local level, whether through biodiversity projects, tackling litter, or creating greener public spaces."
He said the fund was about enabling communities to turn ideas into action, commenting that across the county there was a strong appetite to improve local environment.
"The Local Environmental Action Fund provides the practical support needed to make that happen," he said.
"It will help build more sustainable, resilient, and vibrant communities for the future," he added.
The initiative is also supported by IPB Insurance, which continues to play a key role in backing local authority-led community programmes nationwide.
John Hogan, from IPB Insurance said: “At IPB Insurance, we are proud to support initiatives like the Local Environmental Action Fund that deliver real, positive impacts at community level. Local authorities and community groups are at the forefront of environmental action, and by working together we can help create more sustainable and resilient places for people to live, work, and thrive.”
The LEAF is now open for applications, with a closing date of July 24 and funding is available to support projects that can demonstrate clear environmental benefits and strong community involvement.
Groups are encouraged to apply early and to develop initiatives that will have a lasting positive impact on their local area.
There will be an online information session on the LEAF grant on June 30th June at 12.30pm.
To register visit https://form.jotform.com/WaterfordPPN/LEAF
Further information, including application details and eligibility criteria, is also available from Waterford City and County Council at https://waterfordcouncil.ie/documents/grants/
