Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2017
1306. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if there is grant aid available to a scout group (detail supplied) to assist it in acquiring some land or the use of some land to further its activities. [13802/17]
View answerThe Youth Affairs Unit of my Department provides a range of funding schemes, programmes and supports to the youth sector. The funding available from my Department is to support the delivery of a range of youth work programmes and services for all young people, including those from disadvantaged communities, by the voluntary youth work sector. My Department does not provide funding for organisations to purchase land.
The Local Youth Club Grant Scheme supports youth work activities at a local level. These grants are made available to all youth clubs and groups, including to local Scout groups, through the local Education and Training Boards. The scheme is open to some youth groups across almost all ETB areas and the 11th Cork Scout Group may wish to make an application for funding.
In 2017, almost €1.2m has been allocated to this scheme, a 10% increase over 2016. The scheme, which is open to new entrants, will be advertised locally and applications for funding are invited by the ETBs from local groups in their respective areas. Each year, some 600 local youth clubs benefit from the scheme. Cork ETB will be advertising the scheme on their website over the coming months.
