Minister of State for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Jerry Buttimer, recently visited North Cork to highlight a number of projects supported by CLÁR and Community Recognition funding. Accompanied by Deputy John Paul O’Shea, Cllr Tony O’Shea, and Cllr Aileen Browne, the Minister toured local initiatives that showcase the impact of Government investment in rural communities.
Reflecting on the visit, Minister Buttimer said, “It was a great visit to Cork North West today, and I want to sincerely thank Cork County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for showcasing some of the wonderful investments made by CLÁR and Community Recognition Funding, in Liscarroll Churchtown Gaels GAA, in Buttevant Playground, and with the wonderful walkway completed in Kilcorney. It was wonderful to meet all the school children involved with the events in Buttevant and Kilcorney too.”
The morning began in Churchtown, where volunteers from Liscarroll/Churchtown Gaels GAA, working in partnership with Cork County Council, have upgraded the fencing around the pitch and provided new dugouts for the teams. Deputy John Paul O’Shea TD commented, “We had a lovely morning around North Cork today showing the Minister a number of projects that were supported with CLÁR and Community Recognition funding. The projects, which were led by volunteers in our community, worked with Cork County Council in putting forward applications which helped provide and upgrade our community facilities. We started off in Churchtown where we were shown the works done by Liscarroll/Churchtown Gaels in improving the fencing around the pitch and providing new dugouts for the teams.”
From there, the Minister visited Buttevant, where he officially opened the refurbished playground. Spearheaded by Buttevant Community Council in collaboration with Cork County Council and funded by the Community Recognition Fund, the playground provides a modern, safe space for children and families. Deputy O’Shea added, “We went from there to Buttevant where the Minister opened the refurbished playground, which was spearheaded by Buttevant Community Council in partnership with Cork County Council. This project was funded by the Community Recognition Fund.”
The tour concluded in picturesque Kilcorney, where refurbished walkways around Moll Carthy’s Bridge were unveiled. These scenic riverside paths offer both recreation and a natural space for the local community. “We finished up in beautiful Kilcorney where we were shown the refurbished walkways around Moll Carthy’s Bridge. These are lovely walkways alongside the river and are a gem for the community there. Thanks to all at Kilcorney Social Centre for the refreshments afterwards,” said Deputy O’Shea.
The Minister and Deputy praised the dedication of volunteers and the strong role of local communities in delivering these projects. “The Government investment here is well spent as we have some beautiful amenities as a result. Congratulations again to all involved,” added Deputy O’Shea.
The visit highlighted how CLÁR and Community Recognition funding can transform local amenities, providing upgraded sports facilities, safe play areas, and scenic community spaces, while also engaging schoolchildren and fostering pride in rural communities.
