Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 February 2022
22. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the extent to which she continues to liaise with urban and rural communities with a view to addressing concerns such as isolation and the ongoing need for services to address the issues arising; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8719/22]
View answerIn delivering on its mission, my Department provides a wide range of strategic interventions, funding programmes and policies to support communities, including helping to address the issue of isolation for rural dwellers, older people and people with disabilities.
Addressing the issue of individual isolation in communities has become more important than ever before, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of my Department's policies and funding programmes aim to address isolation issues in communities, and also deliver benefits by responding to the challenges facing vulnerable individuals due to COVID-19.
My Department continues to provide funding to tackle isolation and support those in our communities in most need of assistance through schemes such as the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), the Community Services Programme, the CLÁR Programme, the Community Enhancement Programme, and the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.
My Department’s Community Services Programme (CSP) currently supports over 420 community organisations to provide employment opportunities and local services through a social enterprise model. The CSP focuses on communities where public and private sector services are lacking, either through geographical or social isolation or because demand levels are not sufficient.
My Department is responsible for the Seniors Alert Scheme which encourages community support for vulnerable older people in our communities through the provision of personal monitored alarms to enable them to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind. Funding is available under the Scheme towards the purchase by a registered community-based organisation of a personal alarm or pendant.
Amongst the measures which will further support people living in rural areas is the rollout of the nationwide Public BCP Network. These community hubs will enable onsite access to digital services including digital skills training, remote work and study, community development activities and a range of arts, culture and social events.
My Department is responsible for a number of national policies containing measures to improve the lives of people throughout the country including Our Rural Future, which places an emphasis on building resilience and enhancing participation and inclusion in rural communities including older people and those with disabilities.
My Department is also developing a National Islands Policy and has undertaken a wide consultation process including public consultation on the islands to hear first-hand the challenges they face and how the Department can address these.
My Department continues to monitor issues impacting on communities in order to respond to emerging needs.
