Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
728. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if there are funding streams available for community groups in County Donegal to provide for a wheelchair swing in a children's playground; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22264/21]
View answerOne funding stream under the remit of my Department can be accessed by community groups through the Local Authority in which the facility for which funding is needed is or will be located. My department has administered the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation every year since 2013. This Scheme provides Local Authorities with the opportunity to apply for funding to support play and recreation facilities for children and young people. This scheme caters for the construction of new play and recreation facilities and the refurbishment of existing play and recreation facilities and / or incorporating natural play elements, and a key criteria of the Scheme is that facilities funded are accessible to all children.
The Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation is run in conjunction with each of the 31 Local Authorities; via the Local Authority Play and Recreation Network (LAPRN). This approach is taken to allow each Local Authority to assess and prioritise needs in their area and to enhance the level of accountability under this grant heading. Each successful application must include a commitment to co-funding of 25% of DCEDIY funding, by the Local Authority in question making the application.
The closing date for applications was April 22 this year and demand for funding under this scheme this year was exceptionally strong. All 31 Local Authorities submitting applications, across some 52 projects. Following evaluation of all submitted projects; Local Authorities will be notified of the outcome of their applications as soon as possible..
I would suggest that the Deputy advises the relevant community group(s) to liaise with their Local Authority in preparation for an application to the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation 2022. This will allow the Donegal Local Authority to consider the project referenced by the Deputy, for possible inclusion in next years submission.
