Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Feb 1999

Vol. 500 No. 7

Written Answers. - Community Development.

John Perry

Question:

339 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if Ballymote, County Sligo, will be included in the community development programme in view of the fact that it is a rural town actively pursuing the role of community development; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that it is vital for Ballymote to have financial assistance provided for the provision of a resource centre which would provide a focal point for a community development pro ject and initiatives with strategic importance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4987/99]

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

Funding is available from the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs towards the cost of staffing and equipping of local resource centres which provide a focal point for community development activities in disadvantaged areas under the community development programme, CDP, and the family and community services resource centre programme. Applications from groups seeking inclusion in the CDP are assessed by an independent technical group established to advise me on decisions in relation to the selection of new areas and groups for funding. I am aware from a recent report carried out by the CDP support agency for the north-west regio, that the need for pre-development work in the Ballymote area was highlighted.

My Department is at present in discussions with the support agency concerned about how such work might be initiated and supported.