Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2021
737. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if a community sports, recreation and youth facility consisting of playing pitches, walkways and recreation areas in proximity to a growing village can be considered partly or in whole under the qualifying criteria for the ORIS scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54615/21]
View answerThe Outdoor Recreation and Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) provides funding for the development and/or enhancement of outdoor recreational infrastructure such as trails, walkways, cycleways, blueways and bridleways in rural areas. Applications are received by the Department from Local Authorities and Local Development Companies.
This year's scheme is closed to applications. This year the scheme placed an increased emphasis on the development of outdoor amenities such as those associated with our mountains, rivers, lakes and beaches. Sports grounds, traditional playgrounds, multi-use games areas and walking/running tracks located in a confined space are not supported under the scheme.
The focus of the 2022 scheme will be reviewed in advance of the launch of the scheme next year. I would advise potential applicants to discuss the eligibility of projects with their Local Authority or Local Development Company.
