77% of this age cohort expect to qualify for the State Contributory pension as one way of funding their retirement. When asked their reasons for not having a pension in place, 32% stated that they have yet to get around to it, 20% feel they are too young and a further 20% don’t feel they can afford it.Īlmost a quarter (23%) of those in the 55-64 years age group – those who may expect to retire in the next decade – reported that they don’t currently have a pension in place. The research findings show that a high percentage of consumers do not have any pension plan in place. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has published new research outlining Irish adults’ preparations for their retirement. In addition, ten winners will be selected by KBC’s judging panel to enter a public vote for Ireland’s ‘Brightest Idea’, with an additional €5,000 funding reserved for the overall winning project. With just over three weeks to go, KBC is encouraging community leaders in the Galway region who have an innovative idea or progressive project to get in touch and be in with a chance of securing funding, with multiple winners to be selected across the country. Bright Youth: Through music and song, sport and drama, these projects are using the arts to create vibrant communities that reach out to younger members in particular.Bright Technology: With ideas for apps, technology support for the elderly, kids and parents, there is a clear desire to create a safer online community.Bright Spaces: From regeneration projects to sports grounds and civic spaces, physical improvements to our immediate environment that can benefit the entire community.Bright Lives: From companionship for the elderly to arts groups and mental health initiatives, these projects are working to make a difference to the mental and physical wellbeing of communities.KBC is seeing a trend across the following four aspects of community life: The applications submitted to date show that community groups are asking for help to fund projects that can improve physical and mental wellbeing, create better civic spaces, protect people online and provide for youth initiatives.

And with enquiries still pouring in, KBC is giving community projects until May 31 to get their applications in. KBC Bank has extended the deadline for community groups in Galway to apply for funding through its Bright Ideas programme.Ī total fund of €100,000 is available for creative projects that can demonstrate tangible ways to transform, improve or rejuvenate any aspect of Irish community life.

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