Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021
3449. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will put in place a specific fund for communities trying to maintain, repair and service defibrillators; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40691/21]
View answerSome of my Department's programmes fund the purchase of capital equipment such as through the Community Enhancement Programme (CEP). This programme provides small grants to community groups to enhance facilities in disadvantaged areas. The 2021 CEP was launched in May with funding of €4.5m, and is now closed to applications.
The CEP is administered by the Local Community Development Committees in each Local Authority area, on behalf of my Department. The fund covers the purchase of equipment (such as defibrillators) but does not generally cover operating costs related to the maintenance, repair, or service of defibrillators.
My Department does not operate a dedicated fund for maintenance, repair or service of defibrillators. There are currently no plans to introduce a specific current fund dedicated to this purpose.
