Key facts
- An additional £2 million in funding is available for the Northern Ireland Community Infrastructure Fund (NICIF).
- The funding is provided by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).
- The NICIF helps community and voluntary organizations improve their buildings.
- Almost 60% of issued Letters of Offer have gone to rural organizations.
- Ballylone Rural Development Association received £40,000 for building improvements.
Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, has announced an additional £2 million in funding for the Northern Ireland Community Infrastructure Fund (NICIF). This fund, delivered in collaboration with the Department for Communities, provides capital grants to community and voluntary organizations across Northern Ireland to enhance their existing community buildings. Minister Muir highlighted that the funding reflects his department's commitment to supporting rural communities and meeting the significant demand for the NICIF. He noted that nearly 60% of the Letters of Offer issued have gone to rural organizations, demonstrating the fund's reach in supporting places where communities gather. During a visit to Ballylone Rural Development Association (RDA), which received £40,000 for improvements including enhanced accessibility and a new kitchen, the Minister emphasized the importance of community facilities in sustaining rural life and fostering social connection.