I propose to take Questions Nos. 737 and 738 together.
My Department has many supports in place for disadvantaged communities, including those in areas that were once identified as RAPID areas. For example, as referenced by the Deputy, my Department is providing funding of some €190 million over five years towards the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme, or SICAP, which is our country’s primary social inclusion intervention. This is a national programme that is delivered locally by Local Development Companies (LDCs) to help those in the greatest need. The programme works with both individuals and groups to strengthen communities and improve the quality of life of those facing social exclusion and inequality.
SICAP workers have extensive local connections and in-depth knowledge of available resources and supports in the area and are continuing to work to ensure the emerging needs of their locality are responded to. The response in each area is and will differ as LDCs support local structures and needs rather than imposing general solutions. Where needed it covers work on the ground with local communities to help build their capacity, help improve the quality of life in these areas and identify opportunities for residents within these communities.
The current SICAP programme is due to end 31 December 2022. My Department is currently in the planning stages for the next programme which will include a wide stakeholder consultation and co-design process. This will ensure that the stakeholders at the heart of the programme have an input into the design of the new SICAP programme and that the learnings from this programme will feed into the design of the next iteration.
Separately, my Department is currently developing a Pilot Community Development Programme.
This involved a recent open call for applications and an assessment process is currently underway.
It is intended that up to eight projects will be selected promoting an autonomous approach to community work with marginalised communities by affording them the flexibility needed to build relationships with marginalised groups. Initial funding of €1m for 2021 has been secured, and it is expected that the programme will continue for three years.
My Department also funds the Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) which provides small grants to enhance facilities in disadvantaged areas, including those formerly identified as RAPID areas. The 2021 CEP was launched recently with funding of €4.5m.
I am hugely conscious of the important support that programmes such as these provide to disadvantaged communities, including those in areas formerly identified as RAPID areas, and I will continue to seek increased funding for all relevant programmes within my Department through the annual budgetary estimates process.
Question No. 738 answered with Question No. 737.