Major funding boost for Dún na Si Amenity and Heritage Park.

The Department of Rural and Community Development has confirmed it is to provide funding for a manager and three additional staff for Dún na Si Amenity and Heritage Park.

Minister of State and Longford/Westmeath Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran has confirmed this evening that Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring has provided funding for the extra positions.

The move comes after the loss of five Community Employment (CE) workers at Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park earlier this year sparked fears over the sustainability of the operation.

Boxer said: “I arranged for both Frank Kelly and Olive Quinn to meet with Minister Ring recently and we put a strong case to him that funding had to be found for this key amenity in Moate.

“Frank and Olive met with me on a number of occasions in recent months and we set out a plan for them to secure funding for the staff that Dun na Si requires.”

“Minister Ring’s Department has received a recommendation from Pobal in relation to Dun na Si and funding under the Community Services Programme. Minister Ring has informed me that his Department will be accepting the recommendation that funding under the CSP will be provided for 1 Manager and 3 FTEs (Full time equivalents).”

“I am delighted that Minister Ring saw the unique merits of the Dun na Si project and I am thrilled for all involved as I know how dedicated and hardworking they all are in making Dun na Si such a success.”

“The funding for the staff will now ensure that the project will have a secure future and plans can now develop to enhance it further,” said Minister Moran.