The investment will support the development of sports and outdoor facilities such as playgrounds, astro-turf pitches, running tracks and spectator stands.

It's part of a €8.7 million announcement by Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys this morning.

Minister Heather Humphreys was speaking ahead of a visit to Castlerea earlier today where she opened the new An Chistin Food Hub.

Deputy Frank Feighan said the funding would be used to revamp a vacant property in the village.

Men's Sheds in the Shannonside region can now apply for grants of up to €3,000 towards running costs.

Longford County Council bought the site and it has been subject to renovation works since 2022.

Minister Heather Humphreys confirmed the funding, which will provide between €1,000 and €4,000 to eligible TidyTowns groups across the country.

Today's official opening ceremony is due to take place at half past three attended by Minister Humphreys and key stakeholders from the surrounding areas.