Head of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, Paddy Matthews says that just under half of the money has been allocated to developing cycling and walking trails across the region.

Mel Crowe believes the key to successful grant applications is to keep trying:

Minister Heather Humphries says the funding will make a real difference in the towns and villages across Ireland.

The funding is designed to assist in the development of rural community infrastructure for the LGBTI+ community.

A special walkway was constructed between Drumlish and Monaduff in recent years, but this new grant means the route can now be extended to safely link Drumlish to its neighbouring village of Ballinamuck.

The funding was announced earlier today.

Leitrim County Council secured funding under the rural regeneration development fund.