July Newsletter from Minister Noonan

July 2023

From officially opening Kilkenny Traveller Pride to watching the European Parliament adopt the Nature Restoration Law, July was another busy month, both in my constituency and across my Ministerial brief. Catch up on my local and national highlights via the links below...

Top 5 as Minister

1. Watching the European Parliament adopt the Commission's proposal for a Nature Restoration Law.

It was on a knife's edge, but the European Parliament's vote to adopt the Nature Restoration Law was a win for nature.

2. Announcing Ireland's largest EVER Special Protected Area for birds.

Reviewing the details of the new North-West Irish Sea Special Protection Area.

3. Encouraging voters to 'Check the Register' with the launch of a new, nationwide campaign.

Visit www.checktheregister.ie and register to vote, or confirm or update your details.

4. Launching National Heritage Week 2023 from a Traveller tinsmithing workshop in Finglas.

With Heritage Council CEO Virginia Teehan and Traveller tinsmiths Tom McDonnell and James Collins.

5. Funding 24 community projects under the 2023 Peatland Community Engagement Scheme

A new boardwalk takes visitors around Ballylin bog in Ferbane, county Offaly,

Top 5 Constituency

1. Officially launching Kilkenny Traveller Pride with the Kilkenny Traveller Community Movement.

Enjoying a showcase of Traveller culture and traditions at the launch of Kilkenny Traveller Pride.

2. Welcoming two new bus routes for Carlow town into service.

You wait years for a Carlow town bus route, then two come along at once!

3. Encouraging local sports clubs to apply to the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme.

4. Anouncing over €1.1 million in funding for rural access roads and laneways in Carlow and Kilkenny

A second tranche of funding for repairs to rural access roads and laneways has been announced .

5. Welcoming the announcement of the Kilkenny Community Support Fund, with €290,000 going to 85 community groups and organisations.