Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 December 2020
695. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the extent to which she and her Department have provided funds for rural and community groups throughout County Kildare to date in 2020 whether through Covid-19 support payment or otherwise; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43508/20]
View answerMy Department’s mission is to promote rural and community development and support the creation of vibrant and sustainable communities across this country, including in Co Kildare, and I am committed to the successful delivery of a number of programmes which have provided financial and other supports to community groups and organisations.
These supports enable economic growth and development and also support communities to address gaps in meeting social needs, and these supports are more important than ever as we deal with the impacts of COVID-19 and Brexit.
The 2020 Revised Estimate allocated almost €375 million (gross) this year to my Department and I am delighted to report that spending is in on track as we approach year-end, allowing for increased supports to be provided this year to meet emerging needs.
In 2020 my Department has allocated over €6 million to programmes and schemes in County Kildare, including the allocation of €1.75 million under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund to the Kildare Town Renewal Plan. Other programmes are providing supports that assist communities in responding to economic and social challenges presented by COVID-19 and continue to support our communities to become and remain sustainable and desirable places to live, work and raise families.
Details of all these programmes, including eligibility criteria, how to apply, and other information, can be found on the Government's website, gov.ie.
