Donegal TD Joe McHugh has announced almost €6,000 funding for a Men’s Shed, a heritage project and a community band in the Gaeltacht.
The grants are being sanctioned under the Gaeltacht action plan as part of the 20 year strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030.
Mr McHugh, Government Chief Whip and Minister for the Irish language, the Gaeltacht and the Islands, said: “I am delighted to be able to announce funding for these groups which are promoting valuable community spirit, the language in the Gaeltacht and important cultural and heritage ties.
“The money will help develop Buíon Ceoil Sóisearach Chroiceach Mór, An Clochán Liath which encourages young people to learn traditional music while speaking the language and there is also funding for a Men’s Shed group in Gleann Cholm Cille where local men are learning new trades and Paróiste Mhíobbhaí ar Aghaidh, Carraig Airt which will put on film nights bringing local heritage stories to life.”
The grants from the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht include €3,845 for Buíon Ceoil Sóisearach Chroiceach Mór to enable them to purchase musical band uniforms, €1,208 for Scáthlán na bhFear, Gleann Cholm Cille, to purchase manufacturing tools and €879 for Paróiste Mhíobbhaí ar Aghaidh, Carraig Airt to purchase equipment for the Heritage Community Centre.
Mr McHugh added: “These relatively small investments are hugely important for building community spirit and at the same time for preserving the strength of the Irish language.
“I want to wish all those involved in the band in An Clochan Liath, the Men’s Shed and the heritage project in Carrigart continued success in their endeavours.”