Locally, some of the projects that can expect to receive funding are Athlone Castle, Lough Key Forest Park in Boyle, Co. Roscommon, and a new amphitheatre in Lanesboro, Co. Longford.

The announcement was made today by the Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys with the funding earmarked for outdoor recreation projects.

The funding was recently allocated to Strokestown to enhance its town centre.

The plan includes a major rebuild at St Joseph's Care Centre in Longford Town as well as a confirmation of a long awaited second hospice bed for the county.

The funding is for roads damaged by persistent rainfall over the winter and spring months.

The building was proposed to be sold last year however local councillors decided not to proceed with the sale.

The funds are part of the Sports Capital Equipment Grant and will support 34 clubs across Roscommon, Longford and Leitrim.

The funds announced this afternoon are part of the Town and Village Funding Scheme which aims to tackle vacancy and dereliction.