Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 May 2017
54. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if she will address the need for a full-time administrator for a project (details supplied) in Letterkenny taking into account the project is solely run by volunteers yet has potentially huge benefits for local businesses and the community; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20399/17]
View answerMy role, as Minister, with regard to the protection and management of our architectural heritage, is set out in the provisions of relevant legislation, as are the roles of local authorities and the responsibilities of owners as regards heritage assets.
I am aware that a Conservation Plan for the project mentioned by the Deputy was launched in February and that the group are now seeking to employ a full time administrator. While my Department recognises the significance and value of this project, and congratulates the group on their work to date, I regret that there is currently no funding available from my Department to pay the salary of an administrator.
The best advice for the group may be to contact the local authority conservation officer and heritage officer, who are best placed to advise the group on the various types of funding available. I understand the project group has been successful in obtaining grant support from the Heritage Council (which my Department funds) in recent years for a community event and also for development of their Conservation Plan.
I also understand that a member of the group has contacted the LEADER Local Action Group regarding LEADER funding for the project, however, no formal application for funding has yet been lodged.
It should be noted that LEADER funding would not cover the costs incurred in providing a full time administrator for a project although other elements of the project may be eligible for funding. The approval of LEADER funding, or otherwise, for the project would be a matter for the LEADER Local Action Group.
Financial support is provided by my Department through a number of structured schemes for the conservation and protection of heritage buildings, including the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Structures at Risk Fund. These schemes are administered via the local authorities and details can be found on all local authority websites.
