€1,000 grant to Donegal's 'essential' Community Employment Sponsors

Pat the Cope Gallagher has welcomed the announcement by Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary TD of an additional €1,000 materials grant for all Community Employment (CE) sponsor organisations, describing it as a timely boost for schemes across Donegal and the rest of the country.

Deputy Gallagher, Fianna Fáil, said the funding will be particularly valued in counties like Donegal, where CE schemes play a central role in sustaining community life.

There are currently 807 Community Employment schemes operating nationwide, with almost 19,700 participants engaged in CE programmes. These schemes deliver a wide range of services, particularly in disadvantaged urban and rural areas, supported by an annual budget of over €415 million for 2026.

"Community Employment schemes are essential in Donegal," he said. "They support our local amenities, our community centres, our Tidy Towns groups, our sports clubs, our childcare services and so many other initiatives that rely on CE participants to function. This additional €1,000 grant will help CE sponsors meet rising costs and continue delivering the services that communities depend on. He emphasised the dual benefit of CE for both participants and local communities.

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"CE gives people the chance to gain skills, confidence and work experience, while at the same time providing Donegal communities with services that would simply not exist without them. From maintaining walking trails and community halls to supporting meals on wheels and environmental projects, CE participants make a real difference every day."

Deputy Gallagher also acknowledged the financial pressures facing community groups.

"Costs have increased sharply in recent years, and many CE sponsors in Donegal have been under strain," he said. "This funding is a practical response from Government and will be welcomed by every scheme in the county.

"I want to acknowledge Minister Calleary’s ongoing support for Community Employment and for rural communities like ours. This grant is a positive step and a recognition of the vital work being done on the ground in Donegal and nationwide."