Limerick City and County Council welcomed Dara Calleary TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and Minister for Social Protection, on visits to Askeaton and Feohanagh to officially open two transformative community projects funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
The Minister’s visit (Thursday 26 June) marked the official opening of the West Square Parklet in Askeaton and Tigh an Phobail in Feohanagh, both of which were delivered in partnership with local community groups and Limerick City and County Council.
Tigh an Phobail, Feohanagh
In Feohanagh, the Minister officially opened Tigh an Phobail, a newly renovated community resource centre developed from the former parochial house. The centre now serves as a vital hub for local activities and services.
The project received funding from the Town and Village Renewal Scheme – Building Acquisition Measure (€150,000), LEADER Programme (€365,486), Community Centre Investment Fund (€25,000), and other sources (€202,105) including grants and donations.
The Parklet, Askeaton West Square
The Parklet, developed on a formerly derelict site in the heart of Askeaton, has been transformed into a vibrant public space with seating and planting, enhancing the town’s heritage setting and community life.
The project was funded under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2021 (€250,000), with additional support from Limerick City and County Council (€241,117) and the Community Climate Action Fund (€30,415).
Minister Calleary commented:
“My Department is delighted to support these community projects through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the EU LEADER programme, the Community Centres Investment Fund and other funding streams in local community development. The projects in Askeaton and Feohanagh are shining examples of how targeted investment and strong community collaboration can breathe new life into rural areas. Tigh an Phobail provides a space for connection, support, and opportunity for the people of Feohanagh and the Parklet enhances the beauty of Askeaton while also providing a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike”
In Feohanagh, Cathaoirleach of the Newcastle West Municipal District, Cllr Michael Collins thanked Minister Calleary for the continued support of his Department in the revitalisation of towns, villages and rural communities across west Limerick.
“Tigh an Phobail provides a welcoming hub for community activities and has quickly become a vital part of life in this rural community. It’s inspiring to see what can be achieved when local communities, the Council and other partners come together with Government support, to deliver modern community facilities and services that are inclusive and improve quality of life for all in the area.”
Cathaoirleach of the Adare-Rathkeale Municipal District, Cllr Adam Teskey, welcomed the Minister to Askeaton and said:
“I want to sincerely thank Minister Calleary for visiting Askeaton and for the continued support of his Department in delivering enhancements like this beautiful Parklet to our rural communities. This project, developed in partnership with Limerick City and County Council, is a thoughtful addition to our town — one that respects our rich heritage while enhancing the public realm.”
Dr. Pat Daly, Director General of Limerick City and County Council, said:
“These projects reflect our commitment to working hand-in-hand with communities to deliver meaningful change, enhancing the community infrastructure and quality of life in rural Limerick. The transformation of these spaces is a credit to the dedication of local groups and the vision of our rural development strategy.”
Additional Visit
Minister Calleary also visited Our Lady of Lourdes Community Centre in Limerick City, where he met with the management and board of the Centre and attended a community event. The Centre provides a wide range of services to individuals and families in the Ballinacurra Weston area, including a café, youth centre, crèche, and credit union.
Image Captions
- Image one - The Parklet, West Square, Askeaton opened by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD pictured here with Cllr Adam Teskey, Cathaoirleach Adare-Rathkeale Municipal District, former Councillor Kevin Sheehan, Niall Collins TD and Minister Patrick O'Donovan TD. Picture: Keith Wiseman
- Image two - Tigh an Phobail Feohanagh Official opening and unveiling of commemorative plaque by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD pictured here with Cllr Michael Collins, Cathaoirleach Newcastle West Municipal District, Karen Burke, Acting Director of Service, Rural, Community, Culture and Tourism Development Directorate Chair and Board of local community organisation:Feohanagh Castlemahon Resource Centre CLG, , Minister Patrick O'Donovan TD, Dr. Pat Daly, DG LCCC, TD Niall Collins, TD Richard O'Donoghue. Picture: Keith Wiseman
