Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien has announced significant new funding of €30 million to further support local authorities in the Midlands region as they continue to drive forward climate action in our communities. This funding underpins the continued commitment of Government to local climate action and recognises the key role of local authorities in supporting communities as we transition to a climate neutral economy.
As part of the European Union’s Just Transition Fund (EU JTF) programme, which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the EU, €30 million is being provided to local authorities in the Midlands EU Just Transition Territory to support their local climate action. The new scheme, Supporting a Sustainable Transition through Climate Action for a Resilient Territory (START) will support local authority-led Climate Action Plan infrastructure projects and feasibility studies that align with the EU JTF programme. The types of projects that local authorities can submit for consideration under this closed call include but are not limited to:
- Investments in energy efficiency
- Land regeneration and rehabilitation
- Smart and sustainable local mobility solutions
- Circular economy or bioeconomy
- Infrastructure with a social objective
Investing further in the transformation of the Midlands
Commenting on the funding, Minister O’Brien said:
“Our local authorities are the leaders in making sustainability at a community level a reality. Through the Community Climate Action Programme, hundreds of projects across communities have been and will be funded with the support of over €50 million from the Climate Action Fund from 2023 to 2027. I’m delighted now to announce, in addition, the launch of a new €30 million Just Transition scheme investing further in the Midlands.
Commenting on the launch of the START scheme, Clare Bannon, Acting Director for Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly, said:
“EMRA is looking forward to launching the START scheme which marks a transformative moment for the wider Midlands region. With this vital boost of investment in the region from government and European Union funding sources, we can empower local decisive climate action, fostering greener and more resilient communities that support the unique character and history of the region.”
Pobal CEO, Anna Shakespeare, said:
“Pobal is pleased to support the administration of the START programme under the EU Just Transition Fund, on behalf of the Department of the Climate, Energy and the Environment and the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly. This investment will enable local authorities, and the organisations they work with, to progress projects that strengthen local resilience, improve public amenities, and support communities as they navigate the transition to a more sustainable future. We look forward to working with local authorities across the Midlands region to ensure they have the guidance and supports needed to bring forward impactful, community‑focused projects.”
For more information on the EU JTF START programme visit: https://www.pobal.ie/programmes/eujtf-start/
