€52,129 allocated to the Tipperary Education and Training Board for local volunteer-led youth groups

Fine Gael Senator, Maria Byrne has encouraged local youth clubs to apply for grants under a new €1.79 million fund announced by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone.

“This year’s Local Youth Club Grant Scheme will see €52,129 allocated to the Tipperary Education and Training Board for local volunteer led youth groups which is an increase on last years allocation of €43,386," Senator Byrne said.

“Youth groups and clubs across Tipperary will soon be able to apply to the Tipperary Education and Training Board (ETB) for funding under this scheme.

“Youth clubs are part of the fabric of communities here in Tipperary and must be supported.

“Fine Gael is determined to ensure that we target the benefits of our economic recovery at those who need it most.

“When we support youth groups, the whole community can benefit. The aim is to enhance the lives of our young people by developing their skills and talents and harnessing their energy in a positive way. This of course also benefits the wider communities in which these young people live.

“The scheme is open to approximately 1,600 youth groups and clubs, with an estimated 90,000 club members around the country.  So I strongly encourage Tipperary groups and clubs to apply for this funding to ensure that our local communities can benefit.

“This year the Scheme is open to new clubs and applicants which have not benefitted in the past. So this could be a great opportunity for a new group to grow and expand. I encourage clubs and groups to apply, no matter how new or small they are.

“Each ETB will be advertising the scheme locally and on their website in the coming months. So I encourage all Tipperary youth groups to keep an eye out and get their applications ready.”

Minister Zappone expressed confidence that the additional monies being allocated would positively impact on the lives of young people. She said:

“In every part of the country I have seen the impact volunteers are having on the lives of young people they work with. They are providing adventure, activities and opportunity.

The impact of small clubs working on the ground is huge – and is deserving of Government support.

Through their efforts young people are getting talents, skills and experiences which will make them leaders of the future.

This additional funding will mean a greater volume of volunteer-led youth activities over the next year, which is a priority for my Department. I encourage every volunteer club or group to check locally for application details and see how it can benefit their work.”