Meath Projects invited to apply for European funding - Byrne

Meath voluntary organisations and education bodies who are interested in raising awareness about how the European Union matters in their community can now access funds from the Department of Foreign Affairs, under the Communicating Europe Initiative according to Meath East Fianna Fail TD and Member of the Forum on Europe, Thomas Byrne.

“The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, has confirmed that consideration will also to proposals for events, large or small that are organised to celebrate Europe Day on the 9th of May.”

“Europe Day is an opportunity for citizens throughout Europe to celebrate the EU’s achievements and to reflect upon the Union’s aim to promote peace, its values and the well-being of its peoples.”

“Last October, the Irish people voted clearly in favour of the Lisbon Treaty which ensured that Ireland remained at the heart of Europe. Voluntary organisations and education bodies played a vital role in raising awareness of the EU in their communities and supporting their efforts is important.”

“Last year 40 projects nationwide received support. The projects ranged from a tree planting ceremony in Zion School, a special article in Birdwatch Ireland, a Europe week on Tipperary Mid-West radio, a celebration of Irish Entrepreneurs in the EU, the publication of the Eurochild Anthology of poetry and art, and a seminar on the EU White Paper on Sport organised by the Special Olympics.”

“Any group interested in applying for funds can access information and an application form on www.eumatters.ie. The closing date is the 5th of March 2010. I hope that some groups in Meath avail of this opportunity,” concluded Deputy Byrne.