Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 December 2021
194. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if grants are available to resident's associations seeking to have a defibrillator installed in their community; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60583/21]
View answerMy Department does not operate a dedicated fund for the purchase, maintenance, repair or service of defibrillators and there are currently no plans to introduce a specific current fund dedicated to this purpose.
However, some 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 last with funding of €4.5m, and is now closed to applications. It is intended that the 2022 CEP will open again next year.
The CEP is administered by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) in each Local Authority area, on behalf of my Department. The fund covers the purchase of equipment (such as defibrillators).
Last month I also launched the Community Activities Fund which will allow groups apply for funding to carry out necessary repairs and to purchase equipment within their community. This scheme is part of the CEP and is also administered by the LCDCs.
The LEADER Programme is also capital in nature and the purchase of community defibrillators may be eligible for LEADER funding. Groups should contact their Local Action Group to determine eligibility.
