Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has confirmed that a €900,000 Government grant has been awarded for the provision of a multifunctional performance auditorium at the Cnoc na Gaoithe Cultural Centre in Tulla.

Deputy Carey said that the money will go towards a €1.2 million regeneration project at the former Convent of Mercy building which now houses the Cultural Centre operated by the Tulla Comhaltas Ceolitoiri Eireann branch.

“The project will involve the restoration of the landmark building in the centre of Tulla to provide a multi-functional performance space and auditorium that will further enhance and support the town’s rich music and cultural heritage,” he explained.

It is one of 26 projects to share in a €62 allocation from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund which is a key component of the Government’s Project Ireland 2040 initiative.

The latest allocation will be leveraged with a further €33 million in matched funding being provided by State-funded bodies, philanthropic sources and rural communities. 

“As Chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Rural and Community Development, I welcome this latest round of funding which will deliver significant benefits for those living and working in rural towns and villages.

“The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund will provide €1 billion in investment over ten years to support the renewal of small towns, villages and outlying rural areas. Initial funding of €315 million is being allocated on a phased basis up to 2022. 

“This round of funding relates to Category 1 projects which focus on strategic, large-scale developments that are ready to start and are focused on the regeneration of rural towns and villages,” Deputy Carey explained.

“It is vital that we continue to build resilience in rural communities and make our towns and villages vibrant places for families to live. Projects like the Cnoc na Gaoithe development target areas where they can have the greatest economic and social impact.

‘I have been informed by Rural and Community Development Minister Michael Ring that he expects to be in a position to announce a call for Category 2 applications under the Fund before the end of the year,” Deputy Carey concluded.