A new €1.5M measure has been announced today to support rural voluntary groups that provide transport for people accessing cancer treatment and those with significant mobility issues.
The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring T.D., today announced details of the Mobility and Cancer Care Transport Measure, which is part of his Department’s CLÁR Programme.
This new €1.5 million measure will support the purchase of vehicles by voluntary organisations in CLÁR areas that provide transport services to people for cancer treatment and for persons with significant mobility issues in order to enable them to access support.
The measure will support applications of up to €50,000 for a wheelchair accessible vehicle and €100,000 for a bus.
Qualifying voluntary organisations should apply by the 31st August deadline. The scheme will provide up to 85% of the total cost of a vehicle/fit out. Matching funding of at least 15% will be required. Full details of the new CLÁR Measure are available on the Department’s website at www.drcd.gov.ie
Minister Ring said: “I am delighted to announce, the CLÁR programme will now support voluntary organisations that provide transport services to some of the most vulnerable people in our society. A modest investment under the CLÁR scheme, such as the provision of a bus or a wheelchair accessible vehicle, can have a significant impact on individuals and their families in a rural community.
“It is only right that we should support the voluntary groups which provide transport to our sick and vulnerable citizens in order to enable them to access treatment and support. The provision of this funding is a recognition by the Government of the wonderful work being done at community level in order to allow these people to access treatment.
“Having access to a wheelchair accessible vehicle in your area can mean the difference between being able to avail of day care, respite and other services or being confined to home. It’s as simple as that. This funding will also help people receiving treatment for cancer to get to their appointments and will make a huge difference to affected families in rural areas.”
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