Kildare South Fine Gael TD Martin Heydon has welcomed the announcement by Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys that almost €13,000 has been allocated to theatres in Kildare South as part of her Departments Small Capital Grants Scheme.

“€9,135 has been allocated to Riverbank Arts Centre for computer equipment, lighting and a stage extension while €3,753 was allocated to Griese Youth Theatre in Ballitore for a new sound system.  This funding will make a huge difference for these organisations.

“The Riverbank is an iconic feature in Newbridge which showcases all that is good about the arts and theatre in Co. Kildare.  Griese Youth Theatre is a vibrant community which provides a valuable outlet for many young people in the vicinity of Ballitore.

More than 60 organisations will benefit countrywide, with maximum grants of €10,000, for innovative and creative projects to improve their efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of arts and culture to their communities.

“This Government is committed to supporting the arts and cultural sector here in Kildare South and across the country. In order to do this we must continue to grow the economy, create jobs and therefore have more money to invest in services.

“Fine Gael has a clear plan to keep the recovery going. More people in work creates the resources to cut taxes for working people and invest in better services, improving living standards for all. This will ensure more people feel the benefits of a recovering economy in their own lives.”