The first call for applications for the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund closed in September 2018. An amount of €1 billion is committed to the Fund over a ten-year period to support rural economic development and help build strong communities, with €55 million allocated to the fund in Budget 2019.
Applications made for the Fund are currently being examined by the Project Advisory Board, made up of representatives from key Government Departments and external experts, which was established to oversee the assessment process.
My role is to consider and approve the recommendations that emerge from the assessment process outlined above. The process of assessment for the first call for proposals is ongoing.
However, I am now informed that my Department is aware of concerns relating to a particular application and this matter will be dealt with appropriately.