A government grant of €177,127 has been granted for the redevelopment of a new community centre in Raphoe, it has been announced.
Donegal Minister Joe McHugh announced on Wednesday that the Department of Rural and Community Development will fund the Donegal project under the Leader programme.
In June, the Government announced a funding boost of €2.7million for 76 Leader projects across Donegal.
Mr McHugh, Government Chief Whip and Minister for the Irish language, Gaeltacht and the Islands, said: “It is a huge honour to announce funding for a vital community project like the Raphoe Community In Action and Volt House facility in this part of Donegal.
“The grant funding of €177,127 through the Leader programme is a substantial amount of money and it will it drive this project to replace the existing unit with a new building.
“The current facilities need to be improved. The goal now is to provide a building that will keep the services at the Volt House running, increase membership and retain users.
“It is a vital piece of the social and economic fabric of Raphoe and I know how highly valued it is as a meeting point.”
CEO Enterprise Ireland Julie Sinnamon, Minister Joe McHugh, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Philip O’Doherty, founder of E+I Engineering. Photo: Rachel McLaughlin
The Minister also acknowledged the community for their efforts and insisted the grant will make ‘massive’ difference to Raphoe.
“Their work at Volt House over the last 20 years or so has helped to create a focal point for the community and social activity within Raphoe and the surrounding area.
“It is home to the Family Resource Centre, Donegal Education Training Boards and Raphoe Tidy Towns and it also houses Toddler Groups, Art Group, Woman’s Groups, Bridge Club, and Book Club.
Mr McHugh added: “This money will make a massive difference to the people who use Volt House but it will also add to the environment, heritage, economy and community.”
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