Mary Lou McDonald
Question:805. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the reason a community centre (details supplied) did not receive capital investment. [3969/23]
View answerTuesday, 31 January 2023
Questions (805)
Written answers
I launched the €15 million Community Centres Investment Fund in April this year to support community groups, particularly in disadvantaged areas, with the upgrade of their community centre facilities. Funding was on the basis of a competitive assessment process. The fund was oversubscribed and it was not possible to fund all proposals within the budget available.
The application that the Deputy refers to was an application for funding under Category 3 of the Fund. On December 8th last year, I announced €33 million in funding for 278 successful Categories 2 and 3 applicants. All applicants in these Categories were notified of the detailed outcome of the appraisal process and received a decision in writing. This correspondence contained guidance in relation to appealing a decision. The deadline for appeals from Categories 2 and 3 applicants was Tuesday 31st January.
I am delighted to have secured €20 million in funding under Budget 2023 for a 2023 Community Centres Investment Fund. It is intended that the 2023 fund will be targeted for new build community centres, as well as upgrades and improvements to existing centres. The details of this scheme are currently being developed by officials within my Department and further details will be announced in early 2023.