Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 July 2026
484. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht his views on whether the level of funding made available to the tidy towns by his Department is sufficient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52370/26]
View answerThe Supervalu TidyTowns competition is a unique volunteer-led programme that makes a hugely positive contribution in communities across Ireland. It is abundantly clear that our support for the TidyTowns competition has delivered very tangible and visible benefits in towns and villages all over the country.
I am very conscious of the work undertaken by our TidyTowns groups and direct financial supports are in place for these groups to support the costs which can arise. Last year, I announced funding of €1.5 million to support groups in their initiatives for the 2026 competition. This brings the total allocation by my Department to over €12.5 million in funding to over 1,000 TidyTowns groups since 2017.
Depending on the population of each group’s town, funding of between €1,000 and €4,000 per annum is available. This is intended to assist groups in preparing for entry to the competition, as well as focussing on projects with a sustainability and biodiversity focus.
Further financial support is available to TidyTowns groups through the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) of my Department. This programme is targeted towards supporting communities that are impacted by disadvantage, as identified in the Local Economic and Community Plan of the relevant local authority. It provides small capital grants to community and voluntary groups for the improvement/refurbishment of their facilities and/or the purchase of equipment. In general, support under the LEP is available to groups including Parish Halls, Community Centres, Local Development Associations, TidyTowns groups, and Men’s and Women’s Sheds.
I also encourage TidyTowns groups to engage with their local authority or local development company to explore what other funding sources may be available to support the valuable voluntary work they are providing for their local communities.
