MEPs highlight need to simplify Just Transition Fund applications
A greater need to simplify the application process to hasten the allocation of Just Transition funding and make it more accessible to the communities impacted in County Offaly and the wider Midlands region was the key message delivered at a recent press conference hosted by EU Regional Development (REGI) committee members in St Joseph's Community Centre in Kilcormac.
The meeting brought to a conclusion a three day mission by a delegation of EU based Regional Development committee members aimed at bolstering regional development efforts in the Midlands North West region and Just Transition locations. The visit included the Athlone area, where members stayed overnight at the Hodson Bay Hotel.
The Just Transition funding programme is aimed at providing employment opportunities to economic and community led projects in the Midlands that were heavily dependent on peat extraction for energy use.
Swifter access to Just Transition funding to enable sustainable growth within local communities was a theme throughout the course of the meeting, initially referenced by the delegation lead L'ubica Karvasova MEP.
"The timing of our visit to the Midlands North West region is apt as we look towards its future development from an EU perspective. I am happy to lead this mission and bring my thoughts back to the EU as we present our proposals and prepare for the process of regional growth after 2027.
"We have had important and engaging conversations with local stakeholders in the communities as the transition to sustainable projects remains ongoing. To that end, it is critical that local and regional authorities have a more direct manner to access EU funding to support development and create employment. Going forward the application process for such support must be simplified so funds can be allocated with more regularity," MEP Karvasova stated.
Midlands North West MEP Ciaran Mullooly highlighted the remarkable efforts of communities in the Midlands as they strive to adapt and thrive following the closure of Bord na Móna operations, which has had a profound impact on the local economy.
“Communities in the Midlands can lead the way in adapting to change. The work being done, whether it’s relating to renewable energy projects or creating opportunities for tourism, is inspiring and demonstrates how EU funding can empower local people to shape their future," MEP Mullooly said.
The MEP expressed his concern with the speed of the Just Transition funding application process.
"It is not as swift as we would hope and this issue is of focus for us in the EU. This money must be allocated towards sustainable projects but unfortunately, many community groups do not have the specialist help required to assist with their funding applications.
“We are presented with a key challenge to support our communities and those workers who have lost their jobs - no one should be left behind," MEP Mullooly said.