BALLYHEIGUE and Sneem playgrounds will get funding support for upgrades under a Government initiative.

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, T.D., announced the Summer of Play initiative where, in total, €6million in Government grants have been made available to encourage children and their families to get outside and play as restrictions ease in the coming months.  The funding is being rolled out through two grants:

The Playing Outside Grant for Early Learning and Care and School-Aged Childcare services will provide €5.5 million in funding nationally for services to enhance their outdoor spaces.

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Some €450,000 for the Local Authorities Play and Recreation grant will fund the refurbishment and development of playgrounds and play areas across the country.

Education Minister Norma Foley TD welcomed the announcement that the ‘Summer of Play’ initiative will support and upgrade playgrounds in both Sneem and Ballyheigue.

Minister Foley said: “This funding will provide a welcome boost to the Sneem and Ballyheigue communities. There is no doubt that the past year has been particularly challenging for families in general and this funding will help children and their parents to enjoy Kerry’s beautiful outdoor, natural amenities.”

In addition, National Play Day will commence on the first weekend in July. In advance of this, additional grants will be announced to fund events held by Local Authorities to promote play and recreation in local communities and focus where possible on children who face additional challenges.