I propose to take Questions Nos. 797 and 803 together.
The second call for Category 2 applications for the Fund closed on 28th February and there was an excellent response from all across the country, with 76 applications received.
On 25th June 2020, Minister Ring announced details of 24 successful projects arising from this call. The successful projects have been allocated €13m in support from the Fund and will deliver a total investment worth €17m. To date, the Fund has now allocated €161 million in support for 134 projects across Ireland, worth a combined total of €229 million.
The application process for the Fund is competitive in nature and applications undergo comprehensive scrutiny, involving assessment by my Department under the oversight of a Project Advisory Board, comprised of representatives from key Government Departments as well as independent experts. On foot of this process, a report on recommended projects is submitted to the Minister to inform decision-making in relation to the allocation of funding to successful projects.
My Department has informed me that a further limited announcement is possible, subject to budgetary availability.
It should also be noted that the third call for Category 1 applications - relating to projects with all planning and other consents in place and ready to commence works - is now open and the closing date for applications is the 1st December 2020.