Local authorities across the country are set to receive 61 million euros for their efforts during the pandemic.
The Department of Local Government says it's to help with costs incurred over the past two years.
This includes the maintenance of parks and outdoor facilities, pedestrianising streets, and helping with the vaccine program.
• €435m for the 2021 rates waiver that applied from January to September;
• €62.3m for the limited waiver that applies for the rest of 2021, targeting hospitality and entertainment in particular.
• €61.6m towards income losses and extra costs associated with the pandemic.
Minister Darragh O’Brien said: “Local authorities have played a major role in 2021 as we continue to deal with the pandemic and I would like to reiterate the Government’s support for the sector and the communities they serve. The funding support provided by the Government means the local government sector won’t be at a loss or have to make ‘either’ ‘or’ decisions when it comes to providing vital services for people and to ensure that services such as playgrounds, sports facilities, and library services can keep operating.”
This brings the total Covid-19 related financial support to local authorities in 2021 to €559m.
