Fund is specially for groups between Mullingar and Kinnegad
Community groups around Mullingar, Killucan and Kinnegad have an extra week to apply for grant aid from a fund restricted to an area along a line from Mullingar to Kinnegad.
The EirGrid Community Fund, has allocated €360,000 for groups in the area through which the new 25 km 110 kV transmission line running between Mullingar, County Westmeath and Killaskillen, County Meath runs.
Eirgrid has extended the closing date for applications to this Friday, May 27 at 4.30pm.
The fund is the first community fund allocation made by Eirgrid, the state electricity transmission system operator.
It is being administered by the Community Foundation for Ireland, a not-for-profit community organisation that will manage applications to the fund for between €10,000 and €50,000; and Westmeath County Council, which will manage applications for up to €10,000.
Westmeath County Council will also act on behalf of Meath County Council, as 2km of the route is in Meath.
To ensure the fund reaches communities closest to the new line, projects seeking funding must be located within 2.5 to 3 km of the new line. The boundary was agreed by all parties to the fund; EirGrid, The Community Foundation for Ireland, Westmeath and Meath County Councils.
Community organisations are invited to apply for funds for projects that will have positive social impacts in the area. Funding will be granted to charities, community and voluntary organisations that operate near the line.
Visitwww.westmeathcoco.ie and www.foundation.ie/eirgrid for details on how to apply.
Fintan Slye, Chief Executive, EirGrid, said “EirGrid is responsible for a safe, secure and reliable supply of electricity. Our grid powers the transmission network, supplying the electricity people use every day in homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, and farms.
“When we develop or expand our grid, this work will affect communities near new transmission lines. This is why we developed our new fund, which recognises the importance of local communities.”
Andrew Duncan, Leas-Cathaoirleach, Westmeath County Council, said “We welcome the introduction of this fund by EirGrid and are especially pleased that the Mullingar Reinforcement project is the first to benefit from an EirGrid Community Fund. We know there are many worthy community organisations along the route that are constantly looking for new ways to enhance the wonderful services they provide.”