Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021
3445. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if additional funding will be provided in 2021 for the local improvement scheme in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40274/21]
View answerThe Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) provides funding for works on rural roads and laneways that are not normally maintained by local authorities. It is funded by my Department and is administered through the relevant Local Authorities. As part of Our Rural Future, the Government committed to ensuring that the LIS is funded into the future. This reflects the important contribution which the scheme makes to connectivity in rural Ireland
I launched the 2021 LIS on 14th May with funding of €10.5 million. This represented a 5% increase compared to last year.
I am very pleased to confirm that I recently announced a further €10.5 million to bring the level of funding to €21 million. This means that the level of funding is being doubled this year compared to the original allocation. This increase will be funded from expected savings elsewhere in my Department. I am also continuing to engage with my colleague, Minister Ryan, to explore the potential for further financial support from his Department.
My Department is currently ascertaining the capacity of each Local Authority to deliver additional works on foot of the increased funding and I will be in a position to announce revised county allocations shortly.
This announcement will mean almost €80 million will have been allocated under the Local Improvement Scheme since it was re-introduced in 2017. This demonstrates the Government's commitment to improving connectivity in rural Ireland as outlined in Our Rural Future.
