“The Community Safety Fund is an important and effective element in achieving stronger, safer communities. It ensures that the proceeds of crime seized by CAB and An Garda Síochána are re-invested back into communities to enhance safety and security in those communities.

“It demonstrates that the efforts of our Gardaí and law enforcement bodies can not only disrupt and seize the proceeds of crime but can directly contribute to building stronger and safer communities.”

“The quality of the applications this year was very high. 42 projects will be funded which is our highest number yet under the Fund. The successful projects are innovative, with clear measurable targets, that help to address needs or gaps in community safety in their respective areas.

“I want to see this fund continue to expand as it delivers tangible results on the ground. In recognition of its importance and impact I secured an increase in funding for 2026 bringing the available allocation under the Community Safety Fund to €4.75 million next year.

“Local Community Safety Partnerships are currently being established across the country. These Partnerships will have a role in supporting the purpose of this fund to direct proceeds of crime directly back into the communities for the benefit of those communities.”

“The volume and breadth of applications received to the Community Safety Fund in 2025 demonstrates its value in redirecting the proceeds of crime into projects that support and enhance community safety. We were delighted to be able to fund more projects this year than any previous year and welcome the Minister securing an increase in the size of the Fund for 2026.

“Local Community Safety Partnerships will identify issues relating to community safety in their area and develop responses to these through tailored Local Community Safety Plans. Safety Partnerships will therefore have an important future role to play in aligning the Community Safety Fund to community needs, further enhancing the impact of the Fund for local communities.”