Four Mayo projects awarded Communicating Europe Initiative funding
MINISTER of State Alan Dillon has welcomed funding of €26,000 for three Mayo organisations and Mayo County Council under the Communicating Europe Initiative (CEI) 2026 - a national programme designed to deepen public understanding of the European Union and highlight the role of EU membership in communities across Ireland.
The scheme, operated by the Department of Foreign Affairs, supports voluntary organisations, schools, community groups and local authorities to deliver projects that make European issues more accessible and relevant at local level.
The four Mayo-based projects approved for funding are:
Food Forests Ireland CLG - €6,000 to support community engagement on sustainability and EU environmental priorities.
Leave No Trace Ireland - €7,000 for educational outreach promoting responsible outdoor recreation and EU environmental values.
Scoil Chomáin Naofa, Roundfort - €3,000 to deliver school-based activities exploring Ireland’s role in the EU.
Mayo County Council - €10,000 approved through the LGMA to support local authority participation in the County Pairings Programme, a key strand of Ireland’s EU Presidency preparations.
Minister Dillon said the funding demonstrates 'the real value of EU engagement at community level'.
He said: “I am delighted to see Mayo so well represented in this year’s Communicating Europe Initiative. These projects show how EU themes can be brought to life in classrooms, community groups and environmental organisations right across the county.
“As Ireland prepares for our EU Presidency in 2026, it is vital that communities feel connected to the work of the European Union and understand the opportunities it brings.”
The projects, he said, reflect the diversity and creativity of EU-focused work happening in Mayo: “From environmental education to school programmes and community partnerships, these initiatives will help strengthen understanding of the EU and highlight the benefits of membership in a very practical way. I want to congratulate each of the successful Mayo applicants and look forward to seeing their projects delivered over the coming months.”