The 2017 CLÁR programme was launched on 31 March last, with a closing date of 5 May 2017. The programme provides funding for small scale infrastructural projects in disadvantaged rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population.
Funding for the 2017 CLÁR programme was available this year under four separate Measures:
Measure
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Measure 1:
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Support for School and Community Safety Measures
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Measure 2:
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Play Areas
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Measure 3:
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Targeted Community Infrastructure
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Measure 4:
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First Responder Supports
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In total, more than 500 applications were received across the four Measures, with a combined value of €15 million.
In general, applications were assessed on the basis of their eligibility under the scheme criteria and on the quality of the documentation supporting their proposals. Approximately 230 applications were approved in May and June for funding totalling €7 million.
I can confirm that an application was received under the programme from the project referred to by the Deputy. However, insufficient documentary evidence was provided in support of the application, as required by the scheme criteria, and the application was unsuccessful as a result.
There are currently no plans to revisit existing applications under the 2017 scheme or to open the CLÁR programme for new applications again this year. The provision of funding for the CLÁR programme for 2018 will be considered as part of the annual Estimates process later this year.