Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 3 December 2021
54. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the way his Department provides financial support to LGBTI organisations; the moneys that have been made available in 2021 and 2022 for this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59444/21]
View answerIn line with the commitments in the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy 2019 - 2022, my Department continues work on mapping of LGBTI+ community services. Last month, I announced 42 LGBTI+ related projects around the country that will receive funding of €1.5 million under the 2021 LGBTI+ Communities Services Fund.
The fund comprises two schemes – one dealing with community services, and the other with visibility and inclusion. This funding has been made available to support LGBTI+ projects through grant funding of between €21,250 - €85,000 per successful Scheme A project, and €4,250 - €8,500 per successful Scheme B project.
The Programme is an important element in achieving the overall objective of the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy, and in supporting the Government’s objective to build a fairer and more inclusive country in which to live.
This year’s programme follows the successful LGBTI+ funding call in 2020. The continuation of the scheme will further improve access to services for LGBTI+ people, regardless of their age or where in the country they live. The support of these organisations is more important than ever at a time when many LGBTI+ people are experiencing feelings of isolation and disconnection. Moreover, positive visibility and increased non-stereotypical representation of LGBTI+ identities are vital to support long-term attitudinal change.
The funding allocation for LGBTI+ initiatives in 2022 is €1.025m.
