Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
1493. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Community and Rural Development and the Islands the measures she will take to save community centres that have lost and continue to lose bookings due to public health advice on operation of classes and training; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22210/20]
View answerCommunity centres are funded from a range of different sources across different Government Departments and agencies. Some of the supports provided by my Department are outlined below.
Funding is provided to over 400 community organisations under the Community Services Programme (CSP) some of which are operating community centres. My Department also developed a 2020 Support Fund which provided an additional once off payment to CSP organisations to cover a 12 week period from 26th March 2020.
The 2020 Community Enhancement Programme with funding of €2m which provides small capital grants to community organisations was launched in June. Separately, under the July stimulus package the Department launched a €5m fund for repairs or upgrades to community centres and community buildings. Details are available on the following link:
https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/2af76-minister-joe-obrien-announces-details-of-5m-funding-for-community-centres-community-facilities/
In addition, in 2020 my Department announced a package of supports for Community and Voluntary Organisations, Charities and Social Enterprises, which included a Stability Fund of up to €35m. Some community centres were eligible for this funding, depending on the activities and facilities that they make available.
Funding is also provided to rural community groups through the LEADER Programme, and this may be relevant to community centres. Details can be found at
https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation-information/216837-the-rural-development-and-regional-affairs-division/
While recognising that the social recovery of Ireland post COVID-19 will require a whole of Government approach, my Department will continue to work with relevant stakeholders, including Local Authorities and Local Development Companies, to determine how best this can be achieved and will continue to work to support community organisations and community centres across the country.
