A ‘new era’ for Moneygall

€2m facility on a greenfield site

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, turned the sod for the construction to commence on a new 327 square metre community centre in the village of Moneygall last Thursday.

This project, with a total cost of just over €2 million, is to receive funding of over €1.8 million from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht under the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF).

CCIF provides investment for improvement and refurbishment of community centres, as well as the development of new centres where such a need is identified. Since 2022, over €110 million has been provided for the enhancement and refurbishment of existing centres and for the construction of new facilities where such a need has been identified.

Speaking in Moneygall, Minister Calleary said: “I am delighted to be here in Moneygall as we turn the sod for construction to start on this wonderful centre. This new community space will include a multipurpose community hall, a large function hall, a commercial kitchen area and a range of services to support greater community use.

“My department is providing just over €1.8 million for this facility. This project will provide a range of locally based social, recreational, cultural, civic and educational activities as well as opportunities for people to volunteer, which is at the heart of community life.

“This is the fifth new build community centre that I have turned the sod on in a little over six months and I look forward to more commencements in early 2026.”

Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council, Cllr John Leahy, said: “The sod-turning for this new community centre for Moneygall is not just the start of a construction project - it is the beginning of a new era for the village. I want to acknowledge the dedication of everyone who helped bring this project to this stage, and particularly Moneygall Development Association, led by Henry Healy. I would also like to extend many thanks to Minister Calleary and his Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, who provided the grant funding. The commitment of all parties involved ensures that this community centre will not only enhance Moneygall’s infrastructure but will also strengthen the social and community foundations of the village.”

Henry Healy, Moneygall Development Association, said: “We are sincerely grateful to the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Minister Calleary and Offaly County Council for their strong support for this project. This new, purpose-built community centre will be transformative for Moneygall, providing modern facilities that will enhance opportunities for all community groups, support our social enterprises in sustaining local employment, and strengthen the delivery of social, sporting, and cultural activities for people of all ages. It represents a major investment in the future of our community.”

Minister Calleary concluded: “I want to commend the community here in Moneygall who, with support from Offaly County Council, will now realise their ambition to see this project become a reality. This development will support the community in becoming more sustainable and resilient and will provide much needed space for the people of Moneygall and indeed further afield. I very much look forward to returning in the not-too-distant future to see the centre completed. It will no doubt be transformative for the wider community for generations to come.”