Glanmire Gets Rolling: New Community Bus Launches to Connect Local Groups
New community bus launched in Glanmire today, connecting local groups and tackling rising transport costs across Cork area.
Glanmire has welcomed a significant boost to its community transport options with the official launch of its new Community Bus, designed to support local groups whilst tackling rising transport costs across the area.
The launch ceremony brought together Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dan Boyle, and Minister Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Department of Transport, highlighting the project's importance to the wider Cork community.
The initiative represents a collaborative effort between the Glanmire Area Community Association (GACA), An Garda Síochána, and Cork City Council's Community Team. Funding came through the Department of Rural and Community Development and The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, demonstrating significant government backing for grassroots community projects.
GACA, established in 1982, has spent over four decades working to unite Glanmire's established and newer residents whilst supporting local voluntary organisations. The community bus has already proven popular across all age groups, providing much-needed relief from escalating transport expenses.
Lord Mayor Cllr Dan Boyle said:
"The Glanmire Community Bus provides much-needed support at a local level by offering a vital transport solution to a wide range of community groups. As a 'City of Welcomes', Cork continues to foster community-led initiatives that deliver long-term benefits across the city. This project is a shining example of how local collaboration can create meaningful, inclusive services that support both long-standing residents and those who now call Cork their home."
Minister Jerry Buttimer added:
"The Community Recognition Fund is designed to support towns and villages that have opened their arms to new arrivals. It has made a significant impact by empowering local volunteer-led groups to apply for funding that addresses the needs they identify on the ground. The Glanmire Community Bus is a perfect example of this in action. It has already seen extensive use by youth groups, older persons' groups, and residents of the local Direct Provision centre. I want to commend the Glanmire Area Community Association, An Garda Síochána, and the Cork City Council Community Team for their collaborative efforts in delivering this valuable project for the people of Glanmire."
The bus forms part of a national initiative launched in 2023, providing financial support to communities welcoming new arrivals to Ireland. Cork has been a significant beneficiary of this programme, with Cork City Council administering €1,110,400 in Community Recognition Fund (CRF) support during 2023.
The funding has enabled numerous projects across Cork, including new lighting on the Fairfield, community support services in Knocknaheeny, Blackpool, South Parish and Grange Frankfield, and another community bus serving Ballyphehane Togher CDP. Current CRF support exceeds €800,000 for worthy community projects, including a new youth hub serving the entire city.
Nationally, the initiative has allocated over €14 million to community groups, with €50 million approved for approximately 900 projects supporting towns and villages welcoming people from Ukraine and other countries. An additional €50 million was announced in March 2024, specifically targeting areas hosting Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection and International Protection Applicants.
The project operates under Our Rural Future, Project Ireland 2040, and the Community Recognition Fund, reflecting government commitment to inclusive, community-driven development.
