Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 December 2016
409. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the application process and deadlines for a scheme (details supplied); the persons and bodies eligible to apply; the process involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39974/16]
View answerThe programme referred to by the Deputy is a targeted investment programme which provides funding for small scale infrastructural projects in rural areas which have suffered the greatest levels of population decline.
I launched the 2016 programme on 6 October 2016, with a focus on three separate measures: Safety Measures for Schools and Community/Sports Facilities, Playgrounds and Multi-Use Games Areas, and Local Access Roads. All Local Authorities which have designated programme areas were invited to apply; this includes all counties except Dublin, Wexford and Kildare. The closing date for receipt of applications was 4 November 2016.
On 1 December, I announced the allocation of €8.24 million to 651 successful projects under the programme. The programme for 2016 is now closed. However, I have secured an allocation of €5 million for the programme for 2017. Decisions regarding the particular measures to be implemented through the programme in 2017 will be taken in the New Year.
