Local LGBTI+ community organisations are to benefit from over €200,000 in newly announced funding.
1.2 million euro has been announced this week for 27 different groups across the country from the Department of Children, Inclusion and Integration.
Three local organisations have received sizable grants from the funding programme, which is designed to assist in the development of rural community infrastructure for the LGBTI+ community.
AMACH! LGBT supports community members across Galway and Roscommon with awareness, educational and training events and workshops and has been awarded €100,000 for further development of supports.
Youth Work Ireland Laois, which operates across Westmeath and the midlands is also set to benefit from funding of €100,000.
Meanwhile OutWest, a voluntary social, support and advocacy group for LGBT+ people in the West of Ireland has been allocated €30,000 to maintain and enhance existing services.
Midlands Northwest MEP, Maria Walsh has described the funding as a step in the right direction following several high profile hate crimes against the LGBTI+ community in 2022.