Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 October 2021
235. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will address a matter regarding the development of a digital inclusion fund (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50172/21]
View answerThe Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) aims to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion and equality by supporting rural and urban communities and individuals using community development approaches, engagement and collaboration.
My Department is providing SICAP funding in excess of €220 million over six years (2018-2023). This year over €39 million was allocated to the programme, supporting front line workers in Local Development Companies to deliver SICAP on the ground.
The programme does vital work in helping individuals and groups, by improving the life chances of those who are marginalised in society, living in poverty or unemployed. Indeed, since 2018, the programme has supported over 80,000 individuals and 6,200 Local Community Groups.
I am delighted to have secured a 10 per cent increase for SICAP for 2022 the largest increase since the programme was launched which will lead to the creation of jobs in the area of social inclusion, helping those most in need across the country. This is a very positive step towards restoring the SICAP budget to historic levels, and it is my intention to continue to prioritise funding for SICAP .
The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the digital divide and its negative impacts on groups most at risk of economic and social exclusion in Ireland and some very positive work is already underway at local level under SICAP. In addition, my officials are seeking out further opportunities, in particular via the European Social Fund (ESF) to support a targeted digital inclusion programme.
