McHugh welcomes €22K for local pipe bands

Donegal TD Joe McHugh has welcomed new funding for two local pipe bands.

Raphoe Pipe Band and Manorcunningham Pipe Band will receive the money through the Music Capital Scheme, supported by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and managed by Music Network.

The Raphoe band is set to receive €13,695 and Manorcunningham band will receive €8,556.

Minister McHugh said: “The scheme comprises of two distinct awards that provide funding for the purchase of musical instruments to both non-professional performing groups and to professional musicians.

“Almost €200,000 in funding will be distributed amongst 22 performing groups and 15 individual musicians nationwide, including the two local bands.”

Fine Gael Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Heather Humphreys said: “I am delighted to once again support the annual Music Capital Scheme, which provides very important support to professional and amateur musicians.

“Our rich music tradition is alive and well, as evidenced by the range of groups and individuals receiving support under the scheme this year, from pipe bands to samba music.

“The Government’s Creative Ireland programme, which aims to put culture and creativity at the heart of communities nationwide, contains a specific commitment to ensure every child has access to tuition in music, drama, dance or coding, and we intend to work closely with Music Network to deliver this extremely worthwhile initiative.”

ENDS