An additional €50,000 in financial support has been earmarked for community text alert groups.

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan said the funding will allow a rebate on the costs of operating such crime prevention schemes.

He urged community groups to learn about and embrace the scheme.

"Community Alert, and Text Alert in particular, are perfect examples of citizens working in tandem with their local gardaí to provide a safer community for all those who live there.

"I recognise that these schemes can place a financial burden on some groups, especially those with a considerable number of members. This additional rebate funding will assist with costs,” the Minister said.

Information

Under the scheme, gardai provide crime prevention information by text or e-mail to each registered community contact and they, in turn will forward the information by text or e-mail to all group members.

The Minister said the schemes were a vital link between the public and An Garda Síochána.

The rebate scheme will be operated by Muintir na Tíre and details of how to apply are now available on www.muintir.ie