The Local Development Social Inclusion Programme (LDSIP) and the Community Development Programme (CDP) are my Department's two main social inclusion/community development programmes. Both have a community development element and both are delivered through separate local delivery structures.
I have already indicated that my strong view is that a single focussed programme with a single integrated delivery structure is now needed in order to maximise the impact of these two programmes, which serve disadvantaged communities. My overall aim is to ensure that, from 2010, disadvantaged communities will benefit from a more focussed programme with clear objectives and simplified and streamlined delivery structures. The Centre for Effective Services is currently preparing proposals for me in this regard, which will draw on good international practice and independent advice. I hope to receive this in the near future with a view to rolling out a new programme early next year.
The community and voluntary sector is represented on the boards of Urban Partnerships/Local Integrated Companies and nomination from that sector and others is subject to compliance with a number of guiding principles and requirements. Information in relation to board membership and nomination is available on the Department's website at www.pobail.ie. Automatic representation for CDPs on the boards of these companies in the context of the roll out of the new programme does not arise at this time. I should also stress that my Department has no role in the internal operations of community development projects, which are companies limited by guarantee. Management of the companies, including staff matters and redundancy issues, are a matter for the Boards of those private companies.
In tandem with the redesign work, my Department is currently undertaking a review of Community Development Projects and will shortly have a full report on the findings and recommendations that arise from that review. While I cannot be specific at this stage about the impact on specific bodies in particular areas, pending the outcome of the review process, disadvantaged communities will benefit from a more focussed programme with clear objectives and simplified and streamlined delivery structures.