Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 October 2020
22. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht the progress that has been made on the ionad pobail on Inis Meáin, which was approved under the national development plan; the stage the project is at; and the date for construction and completion. [24442/20]
View answerMy Department provides financial support to build or upgrade community, language and recreational facilities in Gaeltacht areas through its Community and Language Supports Programme.
Under this programme, I recently allocated €424,462 - equivalent to 90% of the total cost - to Comhlacht Forbartha Inis Meáin to enable them to begin works on the development of a community centre on the island. This follows an initial allocation by my Department of €53,798 toward consultancy costs in relation to the project.
The 90% allocation made in respect of this project was the first such allocation made following the introduction of a revised policy whereby the maximum level of capital funding which can be provided for island-based projects by my Department under the programme has been increased from 80% go 90% of the total eligible costs. This policy change represents a practical response to the significant and ongoing challenges faced by island communities.
It is hoped that the appointed contractors will begin work soon on this important project.
