Tuesday, 21 Mar 2023

Written Answers Nos. 1603-1623

Departmental Funding

Questions (1603)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

1603. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the number of times funding was moved across budget lines within her Department in a process known as virement; the name and purpose of the fund the money was taken from; the name and purpose of the fund the money was transferred to; the dates upon which she approved of such transfers, since she took office; if the Department of Public Expenditure was consulted prior to the transfer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12275/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

The Revised Estimate for each year sets out the planned expenditure in each sub-head for that year. The Department of Rural and Community Development operates over 20 sub-head areas each year, reflecting the range of schemes and supports in place for both rural development and community development.

Where, during the course of the year, actual expenditure demands within a sub-head differ to what was planned for in the Revised Estimate, virement has been used to move funding and allow expenditure to take place in the sub-heads where there is most demand. In recent years this has allowed, for example, substantial demand under the Local Improvement Scheme and the LEADER programme to be met from savings elsewhere. This process is an essential part of ensuring that resources can be put to best use across the Department's schemes, with the overall amounts being small relative to the Department's voted allocation, and all such instances being in line with public financial guidelines.

A full list of virements undertaken since the establishment of the Department is provided in the tables attached. In all instances, prior to the expenditure taking place, provisional sanction was sought and received from the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery, and Reform. The provisional sanctions agreed maximum amounts which could be vired from one area to another, to ensure demand in certain areas could be met from savings elsewhere.

In line with public financial procedures definitive sanction for the final amounts actually utilised (up to the agreed maximum) was then received in the first quarter of the following year. The tables attached reflect the definitive sanction each year, with the 2022 sanction figures remaining provisional until completion of the Department’s audited appropriation account in September of this year.

Summary of Virements: 2018 €4.67m (current) and €19.479m (capital).

Current Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.2 Admin Non Pay	267	A.9 Rural Broadband	267
B.12 Community Services Programme	2,000	B.3 Supports for C&V	2,287
A.2 Admin Non-pay	287
A.2 Admin Non-pay	218	B.5 LCDCs	218
A.2 Admin Non-pay	173	B.8 PEACE	958
B.2 Admin Non-pay	785
B.12 Community Services Programme	240	B.9 Irish Water Safety	240
B.12 Community Services Programme	400	B.14 Public Participation Networks	656
B.6 RAPID	256
B.4 SICAP	44	B.15 Other services	44
		TOTAL	4,670

Capital Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.6 LEADER	348	A.9 Rural Broadband	348
B.8 Peace	658	A.10 Local Improvement Schemes	6,401
A.5 National Rural Development Schemes	1,162
A.6 LEADER	2,334
A.8 Town & Village Regeneration	2,246
A.6 LEADER	4,215	B.10 Library Development	4,215
A.6 LEADER	8,515	B.11 Community Facilities Fund	8,515
B.6 RAPID (Current)	658	B.6 RAPID (Capital)	658
		TOTAL	19,479

Summary of Virements: 2019 €4.773m (current) and €23.094m (capital).

Current Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.2 Admin Non Pay	193	A.1 Admin Pay	193
B.2 Admin Non Pay	96	B.1 Admin Pay	95
C.2 Admin Non Pay	11	C.1 Admin Pay	12
A.3 Western Development Commission Pay	163	A.3 Western Development Commission Non-Pay	163
B.12 Community Services Programme	356	B.3 Supports for C&V	656
A.4 National Rural Development Schemes	300
A.4 National Rural Development Schemes	30	B.7 Dormant Accounts	30
A.2 Admin Non Pay	500	B.8 PEACE	3,378
B.2 Admin Non Pay	400
C.3 Charities Regulatory Authority	700
B.12 Community Services Programme	1,778
B.12 Community Services Programme	181	B.10 Library Development	181
B.4 SICAP	65	B.15 Other Services	65
		TOTAL	4,773

Capital Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.10 Rural Regeneration & Development Fund	3,986	A.4 National Rural Development Schemes	3,986
A.7 Town & Village Renewal	2,000	A.5 LEADER	15,188
A.10 Rural Regeneration & Development Fund	13,188
A.10 Rural Regeneration & Development Fund	3,489	A.9 Local Improvement Schemes	3,629
A.8 Regional Economic Development	140
A.2 Admin Non Pay	100	B.7 Dormant Accounts	156
B.2 Admin Non Pay	56
B.6 Supports for Disadvantaged Communities (Current)	135	B.6 Supports for Disadvantaged Communities (Capital)	135
		TOTAL	23,094

Summary of Virements: 2020 €1.711m (current) and €8.856m (capital).

Current Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.4 Rural Supports	499	A.9 Islands	280
		A.7 Regional Economic Development	219
A.2 Admin Non-Pay	930	B.10 Community Enhancement Programme	930
B.14 Public Participation Networks	30	B.4 Irish Water Safety	30
B.13 Social Inclusion Units	225	B.3 Supports for C&V	252
A.4 Rural Supports	27
		TOTAL	1,711

Capital Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.8 Rural Regeneration & Development Fund	5,487	A.5 LEADER	5,002
		A.7 Regional Economic Development	485
A.4 Rural Supports	340	A.5 LEADER	437
A.9 Islands	97
A.2 Admin Non-Pay	37	B.11 Community Enhancement Programme	37
A.8 Rural Regeneration & Development Fund	2,895	B.8 PEACE	2,895
		TOTAL	8,856

Summary of Virements: 2021 €0 (current) and €25.116m (capital).

Capital Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.7 Rural Regeneration & Development	8,825	A.4 Rural Supports	8,825
A.7 Rural Regeneration & Development	789	A.6 Regional Economic Development	789
A.7 Rural Regeneration & Development	11,954	A.5 LEADER	11,954
		TOTAL	25,116
A.7 Rural Regeneration & Development	3,548	B.11 Community Enhancement Programme	3,548

Summary of virements 2022 –

Current Virements From:	€'000	Virements to (Current)	Amount €'000
B.12 CSP	2,000	B.11 CEP (€5m CAF)	5,000
A.4 Rural Supports (TCF)	3,000
A.6 Reg Econ Dev	198	A.8 Island	198
A.6 Reg Econ Dev	200	B.9 WSI	200
A.2 Admin Non-pay	59	A.3 WDC	59
A.2 Admin Non-pay	10	B.9 WSI	10
A.6 Reg Econ Dev	600	B.3 Support for C&V sector (Ukraine supports)	1,150
A.4 Rural Support	259
B.5 LCDCs	91
B.12 CSP	200
	6,617	TOTAL	6,617
Capital Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.7 RRD	6,725	A.4 Rural Supports	6,725
A.7 RRD	5,498	B.11 CEP (€5m CAF & €0.5m CCIF)	5,498
B.10 Libraries	1,000	B.8 PEACE	1,500
A.8 Islands	500
	13,723	TOTAL	13,723
Capital to Current Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
A.7 RRD	9,279	B.3 Supports for C&V (Ukraine Supports)	4,281
B.4 SICAP (Ukraine Supports)	4,998
	9,279	TOTAL	9,279
Current to Capital Virements From:	€'000	Virements to	Amount €'000
B.8 PEACE (current)	530	B.8 PEACE (capital)	530
	530	TOTAL	530

Departmental Funding

Questions (1604)

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Question:

1604. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if an organisation (details supplied) will be considered for additional funding; the funding streams available to this organisation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12294/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development

My department's Community Services Programme (CSP) supports over 420 community-based organisations, to provide employment opportunities and local services through a social enterprise model.

My department and Pobal have undertaken significant work on the restructuring of the CSP with the redesigned programme introduced and all existing organisations transitioned to the new programme from January 2023. All organisations have received new contracts based on their existing staffing levels.

It is open to organisations to seek additional staffing resources under the programme, by contacting their Pobal Development Co-ordinator, in the first instance.

In addition, it is suggested that organisations contact their Local Development Company and their local Intreo office to explore the possibility of staff resources from activation programmes such as Community Employment, RSS or Tús.

Departmental Funding

Questions (1605)

Frank Feighan

Question:

1605. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will consider funding to provide CCTV systems or the means to upgrade existing antiquated CCTV systems in towns and villages within any of her 2023 funding programmes including the town and village scheme and Clár; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12444/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

Our Rural Future, the national rural development policy, recognises the importance of community safety in rural areas, and contains a number of measures to this end including the introduction of the Policing and Community Safety Bill to redefine the functions of An Garda Síochána to include community safety. However, in terms of funding schemes neither the Town and Village Renewal Scheme nor the CLÁR Scheme support the installation of CCTV systems. This matter comes within the scope of the Department of Justice.

The Town and Village Renewal Scheme aims to assist with the rejuvenation of rural towns and villages throughout Ireland, making them more attractive places to live, work, and visit. In line with the commitment in Our Rural Future, the 2022 scheme prioritised the renovation of derelict and vacant buildings in our town centres, with a view to bringing these buildings back into use.

Since it was first introduced in 2016 over €149 million has been allocated to more than 1,600 projects across Ireland.  It has supported a range of activities from improving public realm areas to initiatives such as the development of enterprise hubs and remote working facilities. The priorities for the 2023 scheme are currently under review and will be announced in due course. 

The CLÁR Programme provides funding for small-scale projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population over a defined period. Since the programme was relaunched in 2016, it has supported a wide range of measures. The CLÁR 2022 programme awarded a record €12.2 million with 292 projects supported.

The CLÁR programme this year will focus on supporting investment in a wide range of community facilities and community infrastructure. The measures to be funded in 2023 are currently under review and will be announced when the CLÁR 2023 program is launched  shortly.

I understand that the Department of Justice administers a grant aid scheme for groups wishing to establish a community- based CCTV system in their area.  Other measures being progressed by the Department of Justice in relation to community safety in rural areas include the establishment of Local Community Safety Partnership Pilots in Waterford and Longford in 2021, a review of community-based alert schemes, and the development of a revised legislative framework to provide clarity to local authorities on how local CCTV schemes can be established while enhancing community safety and data protection safeguards.

Road Projects

Questions (1606)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

1606. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the local contribution required by her Department under the local improvement scheme 2023; if there is a cap on the contribution depending on the cost of a scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12532/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

The Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) supports the improvement of rural roads and laneways that are not normally maintained by local authorities. As part of Our Rural Future, the Government is committed to ensuring that the LIS is funded into the future. 

The Scheme was reintroduced by my Department in 2017 following a number of years with no dedicated funding.  I am committed to improving connectivity for rural and island residents, whether it be access to homes, farms or outdoor amenities. Since 2017, my Department has allocated almost €114 million to the scheme.  Up to 2022 this has seen upgrade works on over 3,700 non-public roads and lanes benefiting over 16,000 landowners and residents in these rural areas.

I have increased the funding for the Local Improvement Scheme each year since 2021 and allocated an additional €20.5 million during 2021 and 2022 towards the scheme. I launched the 2023 scheme earlier this month with an increase in the base funding to €12 million. I also announced an additional €0.55 million for improvement works on our offshore islands. 

My Department reviews the scheme criteria each year prior to launch including the mechanism for funding allocation. The prioritisation of roads for submission to my Department is a matter for each local authority in line with the Scheme Outline.

A component of the delivery of the scheme is a local contribution made by the beneficiaries towards the cost of the improvement works. Where the number of beneficiaries is five or fewer a local contribution based on 10% of the total cost of the project is required. Where the number of beneficiaries is six or more, the contribution is 15%. The local contribution is capped at €1,200 per beneficiary, on the basis that all beneficiaries contribute. It should be noted however, that the vast majority of beneficiaries contribute much less than the €1,200 cap based on the cost of the improvement works.

Road Projects

Questions (1607)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

1607. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if the local contribution for the local improvement scheme is pitched at a lower percentage for islands in view of the extra cost per square metre of doing roads on islands; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12533/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

The Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) supports the improvement of rural roads and laneways that are not normally maintained by local authorities. As part of Our Rural Future, the Government is committed to ensuring that the LIS is funded into the future. 

The Scheme was reintroduced by my Department in 2017 following a number of years with no dedicated funding.  I am committed to improving connectivity for rural and island residents, whether it be access to homes, farms or outdoor amenities. Since 2017, my Department has allocated almost €114 million to the scheme.  Up to 2022 this has seen upgrade works on over 3,700 non-public roads and lanes benefiting over 16,000 landowners and residents in these rural areas.

My Department reviews the scheme criteria each year prior to launch including the mechanism for funding allocation. The prioritisation of roads for submission to my Department is a matter for each local authority in line with the Scheme Outline.

I have increased the funding for the Local Improvement Scheme each year since 2021 and allocated an additional €20.5 million during 2021 and 2022 towards the scheme. I launched the 2023 scheme earlier this month with an increase in the base funding to €12 million. I also announced an additional €0.55 million for improvement works on our offshore islands. 

A component of the delivery of the scheme is a local contribution made by the beneficiaries towards the cost of the improvement works. Where the number of beneficiaries is five or fewer, a local contribution based on 10% of the total cost of the project is required; where the number of beneficiaries is six or more, the contribution is 15%. The local contribution is capped at €1,200 per beneficiary, on the basis that all beneficiaries contribute. It should be noted that the vast majority of beneficiaries contribute much less than the €1,200 cap based on the cost of the improvement works. The local contribution and the cap apply equally to mainland and island applicants under the 2023 scheme. 

Road Projects

Questions (1608)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

1608. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if there is a standard cost per square metre accepted by her Department for applications by county councils under the local improvement schemes; if this is higher on islands than on the mainland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12534/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

The Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) supports the improvement of rural roads and laneways that are not normally maintained by local authorities. As part of Our Rural Future, the Government is committed to ensuring that the LIS is funded into the future. 

The Scheme was reintroduced by my Department in 2017 following a number of years with no dedicated funding.  I am committed to improving connectivity for rural and island residents, whether it be access to homes, farms or outdoor amenities. Since 2017, my Department has allocated almost €114 million to the scheme.  Up to 2022 this has seen upgrade works on over 3,700 non-public roads and lanes benefiting over 16,000 landowners and residents in these rural areas.

My Department reviews the scheme criteria each year prior to launch including the mechanism for funding allocation. The prioritisation of roads for submission to my Department is a matter for each local authority in line with the Scheme Outline.

I have increased the funding for the Local Improvement Scheme each year since 2021 and allocated an additional €20.5 million during 2021 and 2022 towards the scheme. I launched the 2023 scheme earlier this month with an increase in the base funding to €12 million. I also announced an additional €0.55 million for improvement works on our offshore islands. 

Each application is evaluated by the relevant Local Authority based on its merits, taking into account various factors including the condition of the road. Similarly with regard to improvement works on the Islands a number of factors are considered including the proximity of the island to the mainland and the cost of transporting materials to the various islands. For these reasons there are no set costs per meter square with regard to improvements works carried out under the Local Improvement Scheme.

Departmental Funding

Questions (1609)

Johnny Guirke

Question:

1609. Deputy Johnny Guirke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if any projects under her remit are on hold due to Capital Funding pressures; if she will indicate the projects, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12632/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

My Department was allocated a gross budget of €389 million for 2022, of which €195 million was current and €194 million was capital. However, €10.5 million was repurposed from capital to current to provide supports to assist the response to the Ukraine crisis, effectively reducing the capital budget to €183.5 million, which was supplemented by a €16.86 million carry forward from 2021 to 2022.

There are no projects on hold in my Department due to capital funding pressures. However, the delivery of some projects supported by the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), Town and Village Renewal and the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme have been delayed as a result of the continued impacts of COVID-19 and challenges in the construction sector. This is largely due to delays in projects moving to construction phase, supply chain issues and, more recently, inflation issues making procurement more challenging. Progress greatly improved in the second half of 2022, with 14 Category 1 RRDF projects complete, and a further 43 now at construction phase. Others are moving through formal approval and procurement processes. In addition, I also approved funding of €115 million for 23 major new rural regeneration projects last November which will be delivered over two phases.

Any of the savings in the available budget were repurposed for the aforementioned Ukraine Supports, increased funding for the Local Improvement Scheme by €11 million, to increase funding for the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF) by €5 million, and to increase LEADER funding by €4 million.

€14.5 million of unspent capital funding from 2022 was carried over for use in 2023. Given the recent progress made with the RRDF and other funds, I expect an increased level of project completion in 2023, and the capital carryover will allow the Department to meet this funding requirement when it is needed.

Animal Welfare

Questions (1610)

Holly Cairns

Question:

1610. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will outline any activities he is pursuing around legislative changes concerning conditions of dog ownership and or licensing. [12762/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

My Department has policy and legislative responsibility for dog control.  I published the consultation report on ‘A review of measures relating to the control of dogs in Ireland’ last year.   This report followed a public consultation to which over 1,000 responses were received.  As a result of this review, the Department intends to more actively promote a culture of responsible dog ownership in Ireland. This will include supporting information campaigns regarding responsible dog ownership and progressing measures involving primary and secondary legislation.

Officials from both my Department and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine have been  participating in a working group on control of dogs issues, convened to examine the various issues and consider all relevant legislative and enforcement issues in relation to dogs.  The report of the group is currently under consideration.   

I intend to take action shortly to respond to the growing concern about dogs which are not under proper control.  My Department is currently working on options in this regard, including amendments to primary legislation and regulations relating to on-the-spot fines. 

My Department continues to promote a culture of responsible dog ownership in Ireland by supporting responsible dog ownership, education and awareness campaigns.

Sustainable Development Goals

Questions (1611)

Denis Naughten

Question:

1611. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the progress made by her Department in respect of targets and goals set out in sustainable development goals of the 2030 United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development under the policy remit of her Department; and if these targets and goals will be met by their respective deadlines. [12909/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a significant and ambitious framework. A whole-of-Government approach to its implementation has been taken in Ireland. Ireland’s Second National Implementation Plan for the Sustainable Development Goals, 2022 – 2024 was published in October 2022. The Plan was developed by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications in collaboration with all Government Departments, key stakeholders, and based on input from two public consultation processes. A key objective of the Plan is to achieve greater policy coherence for Sustainable Development (PCSD) with the aim of accelerating achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at all levels of Government.

The Plan is supplemented by two supporting documents: an SDG policy map which identifies the lead Departments and relevant national policies for each of the 169 SDG targets; and a Policy Update document which provides policy updates for each of the SDG targets. These documents are available at www.gov.ie/sdgs

The Central Statistics Office, in collaboration with all Government Departments, has prepared a series of statistical publications which monitor and report on how Ireland is progressing towards meeting its targets under the SDGs. Reports are available for SDGs 1 – 16 and can be found on the central statistics website.

A key commitment under the SDG National Implementation Plan involves mainstreaming the SDGs across national policies. The following key policies, developed and being implemented by my Department, are underpinned by, and strongly align with, the Sustainable Development Goals:

- Our Rural Future is the Irish Government’s blueprint for the development of rural Ireland over the period 2021 - 2025. It provides the framework to achieve the vision of transforming the quality of life and opportunity for people living in rural areas. The policy outlines over 150 measures for delivery during that timeframe, each of which are directly linked to at least one UN Sustainable Development Goal.

- The high-level objectives and actions set out in the Sustainable, Inclusive and Empowered Communities A five-year strategy to support the community and voluntary sector in Ireland 2019-2024 support consultation, inclusion and participation of communities in public policy and decision-making at all levels and supports the implementation of SDG 4 Quality Education, SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13 Climate Action, and SDG 16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

- The SDGs are mainstreamed into the National Social Enterprise Policy and implementation of the Policy is opening new opportunities for social enterprises to address social and environmental challenges, and thereby progress towards the SDGs. The policy reflects the Irish Government’s commitment to facilitating the success of social enterprise in Ireland, as well as underpinning the Government’s commitments to equality, human rights and social cohesion. The policy is aligned to the SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth in particular and the targets therein.

- The National Volunteering Strategy and the SDGs share common themes of sustainability, co-operation and inclusivity. These themes provide the critical framework for the Strategy and the SDGs are integrated into its five Strategic Objectives. In particular the Strategic Objectives outlined in the strategy support the community, voluntary and charity sector and strengthen its capacity to contribute to civil society and therefore strongly support SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities.

- The Town Centre First Policy , focuses on ensuring we plan for sustainable cities and communities through proactively addressing the decline in the health of towns across Ireland and supporting measures to regenerate and revitalise them. This focus is aligned with Goal 11 of the SDGs. The policy encourages renewed focus on the sustainable and adaptive reuse of existing assets and increasing the energy efficiency of individual buildings.

- The spectrum of SDGs is well represented in the actions of the Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors: National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023-2027 with 14 of the 17 SDGs included. There are particularly strong links with SDG 3 Good Health and Wellbeing, SDG 4 Quality Education, SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13 Climate Action and SDG 15 Life on Land. Each action is directly linked to one or more SDGs and will contribute to the delivery of one or more of the targets associated

Additionally, my Department contributes to the delivery of the SDGs through the following work:

- The SuperValu TidyTowns competition which is administered by my Department. The Sustainable Development Goals now form an integral part of the competition and the goals have been aligned to each of the eight competition categories. A special award entitled “Sustainable Development Goals Award” has also been introduced to the competition.

- Through provision of supports for local community structures such as the Local Community Development Committees and Public Participation Networks so as to build social cohesion and ensure no one is left behind.

- Supporting disadvantaged communities and individuals through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) , Ireland’s primary social inclusion funding intervention, which aims to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion and equality.

- Provision of supports for public libraries which align with SDG 4 Quality Education and specifically to targets focused on access to quality early childhood development, care and pre-primary education and literacy and numeracy.

Departmental Funding

Questions (1612)

Niall Collins

Question:

1612. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development when applications will open for the Community Centre Investment Fund. [13003/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

Community centres are the cornerstone of community life in towns, villages and parishes across the country. Since my appointment as Minister for Rural and Community Development, I have placed a key focus on the development of these important facilities. 

In 2022, I launched the new Community Centres Investment Fund and there was huge demand for the scheme with over 1,000 applications received. All applications were subject to a competitive assessment following which I was pleased to announce €45.5m for 858 successful projects. These projects will be completed over the course of 2023 and 2024. 

In addition to upgrading existing centres, I know that there are a number of areas that require funding to develop new community facilities. In this regard, I was delighted to secure €21m in Budget 2023 for a new round of the Community Centres Investment Fund which will be targeted specifically at new build community centres. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that details of the 2023 scheme are currently being developed and I hope to issue a call for applications in late March.

Separately, community centres can apply to the Community Support Fund which provides supports to small groups who are struggling with energy/running costs and for small capital works.  Groups should contact their Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) for details of this fund. 

I also expect to launch the CLÁR Programme in the coming weeks which provides funding for minor enhancement works to community centres.

Charitable and Voluntary Organisations

Questions (1613)

Jackie Cahill

Question:

1613. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the reason a community-based organisation that promotes health and wellbeing through sport cannot be designated as charity under the Charities Act 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13160/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development

The Charities Act 2009 sets out the requirements an organisation must meet to be considered a charity in Ireland. Among the requirements is the concept of a charitable purpose.

The Act sets out specific categories of charitable purpose, namely the prevention or relief of poverty or economic hardship; the advancement of education; the advancement of religion; and any other purpose that is of benefit to the community.

To register as a charity, an organisation must advance its charitable purpose(s) only. In short, it cannot have mixed purposes, whereby some activities are charitable and some are not.

The Act also sets out a number of exclusions, specifying what organisations can, and cannot, become charities. This includes organisations established solely for the promotion of athletic or amateur games or sports. There are exceptions to this, such as where a charity uses sport as a means to advance its charitable purpose.

The Charities Regulator has produced helpful guides, including ‘What is a Charity’ and ‘Key steps to registering a charity’ respectively, both of which are publicly available online at chartiesregulator.ie

The maintenance of the Register of Charities is solely a matter for the Charities Regulator, which is independent in conducting its statutory functions. This includes the assessment process for applicants in accordance with the Charities Act 2009.

An organisation which is refused charitable status may appeal that decision to the Charities Appeals Tribunal, no later than 21 days from notification of the decision to refuse, unless the Tribunal extends the period for appealing the decision.

Departmental Funding

Questions (1614)

Claire Kerrane

Question:

1614. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the funding options that are available to an organisation (details supplied) for upgrade works to ensure continuation of a service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13205/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

My Department's mission is to support vibrant and sustainable communities across this country, and in doing so to deliver on a wide range of strategic interventions, funding programmes and policies to support urban and rural communities.

Funding for meals-on-wheels community groups may be available, subject to meeting eligibility criteria, through various funding strands managed by my Department as set out below:

- The Community Enhancement Programme provides vital supports to community groups in disadvantaged areas across Ireland. The programme has provided over €43 million in funding for over 17,000 projects since 2018, with small grants for the improvement of facilities.

On 18th November last year, I launched the Community Support Fund with funding of €10 million. This fund, under the Community Enhancement Programme, is designed to assist community groups across the country with their energy/running costs, and will also provide funding for small capital works projects.

The Community Support Fund is being administered on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development locally by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) across the country, with support from their Local Authority. Groups should contact their local LCDC for further details on the application process.

- CLÁR : The CLÁR Programme provides funding for small-scale projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population over a defined period. Since the programme was relaunched in 2016, it has supported a wide range of measures.

The CLÁR 2022 programme awarded more than €12 million in funding for 292 projects. Under Measure 1, Community Facilities & Amenities, applications were accepted directly from community groups for capital works. Funding of over €10.1 million was approved under Measure 1 in 2022.

The 2023 Programme will be announced shortly and information will be published on my Department's website.

- Social Enterprise: Many community organisations and meals-on-wheels providers are social enterprises, and may apply for any scheme run by DRCD under the Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF) Social Enterprise Measure.

Past DAF schemes include small capital grants schemes and the Scaling-up Scheme for Social Enterprise. The DAF schemes are not currently open to applications however details of any forthcoming schemes will published on the DRCD website.

- LEADER : Funding for the service referenced may be available through the LEADER Programme. LEADER is a multi-annual programme which is delivered through 29 Local Action Groups (LAGs) around the country.

Support under the LEADER programme is provided under a broad range of themes. In order for a project to be eligible for LEADER funding, it must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved Local Development Strategy for the relevant LEADER area, and it must comply with the Operating Rules and EU Regulations in place for the programme.

Prospective applicants should, in the first instance, contact their relevant LAG, through its Implementing Partner, to discuss the eligibility of the project and the funding that may be available. The list of all Local Action Groups, their Implementing Partners and their contact details, is available on the Gov.ie website.

All prospective applicants should carefully consider the detailed guidance documentation that is issued by my Department as part of the application process for the various programmes listed to ensure that they meet the criteria set out. Queries relating to the application process for any of the programmes listed above can be forwarded directly to my Department and contact details can be found on the website gov.ie.

I would also encourage interested parties to stay in touch with their Local Development Company, their Local Community Development Committee and their Local Authority so that they are aware of grant schemes from across Government Departments and state agencies, as they become available.

Community Employment Schemes

Questions (1615)

Jackie Cahill

Question:

1615. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide an update on work to provide a pay deal for TUS supervisors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13302/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

As the Deputy will be aware, Tús is an active labour market programme designed to provide long term unemployed people with an opportunity to engage in useful work within their communities.

In relation to the pay issue raised by the Deputy, the matter is currently the subject of a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) conciliation process as you will appreciate, while this process is ongoing, I am not in a position to comment further, other than to say that I am hopeful that an agreed and fair resolution can be reached through this conciliation process.

Departmental Bodies

Questions (1616)

Darren O'Rourke

Question:

1616. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the number of WTE senior case managers at the grade of higher executive officer employed by the Charities Regulator in each of the years 2020, 2021, 2022 and to-date in 2023, in tabular form. [13357/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development

The Charities Regulatory Authority (the ‘Charities Regulator’) was established in October 2014 pursuant to the Charities Act 2009. The Authority is the State organisation responsible for registering and regulating all of Ireland’s charities, with the mandate to promote good governance practice.

My Department has been assigned responsibility for the Charities Regulator. It is important to note however, that the Regulator is fully independent in the performance of its statutory functions, including recruitment.

The title 'Senior Case Manager' is not used within the Charities Regulator currently. The table below displays roles that may be similar to a Senior Case Manager, at Higher Executive Officer grade or equivalent.

Title	Dec 2020	Dec 2021	Dec 2022	Mar 2023
Compliance Concerns Manager	1	1	1	2
Registration Manager	2	2	2	2
Total	3	3	3	4

Departmental Funding

Questions (1617)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

1617. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she intends to provide funding for the purchase or long lease, including fit-out, of long-term secure accommodation for an organisation (details supplied) in view of its importance to society; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13415/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

My Department provides a range of supports which are available to Men's Sheds, depending on the works being completed.

Last November, I was delighted to announce funding of €800,000 to support Men’s Sheds throughout the country.

The initiative will see grants of up to €2,000 provided to over 400 Men’s Sheds nationwide to assist them with running costs such as electricity or insurance bills.

The individual grants will be distributed to the over 400 Men’s Sheds via its representative body, the Irish Men’s Sheds Association (IMSA). Sheds should contact the IMSA for further details.

Separately, Men's Sheds can also apply for funding under the recently announced Community Support Fund (CSF). This €10m fund was set up to help small community groups with their energy/running costs but will also provide funding for small capital works projects. The fund is being administered by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) on behalf of my Department and interested groups should contact their local LCDC directly for further information.

I note the Deputy’s points and I will keep them under consideration for future funding streams that may become available.

Departmental Funding

Questions (1618)

Michael Lowry

Question:

1618. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the financial and grant assistance available through her Department to help an organisation (details supplied) to develop a community walkway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13445/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

The CLÁR Programme provides funding for small-scale projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population over a defined period. Since the programme was relaunched in 2016, it has supported a wide range of measures. Although the the type of project referred to by the Deputy is technically eligible under the Programme, the town in question is not located within a CLAR area and as such is not eligible for funding on that basis.

It would appear that this project could be eligible for funding under the Department of Transport's Active Travel Investment Programme or indeed the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media's Sports Capital Programme.

Departmental Funding

Questions (1619)

Holly Cairns

Question:

1619. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide details on the funding streams and support available community groups who wish to develop/upgrade community recreational amenities. [13471/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

I am happy to confirm that under Our Rural Future there are a number of funding streams and supports available to community groups looking to develop or upgrade community recreational amenities. These include the CLÁR Programme, the Community Centres Investment Fund (CCIF), the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), the Community Recognition Fund (CRF), the LEADER Programme and the Community Support Fund.

The CLÁR Programme provides funding for small-scale projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population over a defined period. The CLÁR 2022 programme awarded a record €12.2 million with 292 projects supported under the Programme. One of these measures was focused on the development of community facilities and amenities. Measures for inclusion in the CLÁR Programme are reviewed each year. I am happy to confirm details of the 2023 program will also be announced in the coming weeks.

The local community centre often represents a key space where wide and varied range of interests, talents and skills that exist locally can be nurtured. To recognise this valuable local resource, in 2022, I launched a new fund, the Community Centres Investment Fund (CCIF). Following competitive assessment, I was pleased to announce significant investment of over €45 million in 858 projects. I was delighted to secure an additional €21m in Budget 2023 for a new round of the CCIF. The focus now will be on "new builds". The details of the 2023 scheme are currently being developed and I hope to issue a call for applications in the coming weeks.

The Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) is central to Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, the new National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023 - 2027 which is set to shape the future of outdoor recreation over the next five years. ORIS funds new outdoor recreational infrastructure as well as providing for the necessary repair, enhancement or promotion of existing facilities in countryside areas across Ireland. Since the launch of the Scheme, funding of in excess of €106 million has been approved to support more than 1,500 projects across Ireland. Last year, I approved projects to the value of almost €20 million under the Scheme. The Measures to be included under the Scheme are reviewed each year. My Department is currently developing the 2023 Scheme in advance of the launch later this year.

The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) provides funding for the development and construction of large scale capital projects in towns and villages and rural areas across Ireland. RRDF supports our rural towns and villages through planned and sustainable regeneration. It is investing in necessary facilities and infrastructure, with a view toattracting people back to live in rural areas and drive economic growth. The Fund is focused on supporting projects of scale which have the greatest potential for transforming rural communities and which have no other Government or other funding mechanisms available to them.

My Department launched the €50m Community Recognition Fund (CRF) earlier this year. This fund is specifically targeted at projects that are located in communities, towns and villages that are hosting the Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection and/or International Protection Applicants. The Fund will support the development of facilities that will be used by all members of the community. It provides funding for enhancement to parish facilities which are open to use by all of the community. Local authorities have submitted funding proposals to my Department which are currently being assessed.

The LEADER Programme is a key intervention implemented by my Department which will help to underpin the Government's rural development goals as outlined in 'Our Rural Future'. The LEADER programme is delivered through 29 Local Action Groups (LAGs) across rural Ireland. A feature of the LEADER programme is that it is based on a community-led, bottom-up approach to rural development. Support under the LEADER programme is provided under a broad range of themes, including the Social Inclusion Theme in the current LEADER programme or the Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion theme in the 2023-2027 programme. Funding for playgrounds may be available under these themes. In order for a project to be eligible for LEADER funding, it must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved Local Development Strategy in the sub-regional area concerned, and it must comply with the Operating Rules and EU Regulations in place for the programme. Prospective applicants should, in the first instance, contact their relevant LAG, through its Implementing Partner, to discuss the eligibility of the project and the funding that may be available. The list of all LAGs, their Implementing Partners and their contact details, is available on my Department’s website.

Finally, the Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) provides funding to community groups and organisations across Ireland, with a focus on areas of disadvantage. Funding is provided to each local authority, and the programme is administered by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDC) on the basis of local need. The €10 million Community Support Fund, launched in 2022 is a new fund under the CEP, which is assisting community groups across the country deal with rising energy and operational costs such as electricity bills and insurance costs. Groups can also use the funding to carry out small upgrade or refurbishment works and purchase equipment.

Rural Schemes

Questions (1620, 1621)

Michael Lowry

Question:

1620. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development further to Parliamentary Question No. 508 of 8 February 2023, if he is aware that the RRDF project in Carrick-on- Suir, County Tipperary will go to tender shortly (details supplied) and that work is scheduled to begin in early June 2023, the level of work that the Carrick-on-Suir RRDF project must complete before Cahir, County Tipperary, can draw down funds to begin work on its town centre renovation, car park and library projects; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13529/23]

Mattie McGrath

Question:

1621. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide an update in relation to the progress of the recent Rural Regeneration and Development Fund allocations to Tipperary County Council to the towns of Cahir, Roscrea and Carrick on Suir; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13545/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1620 and 1621 together.

The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund provides funding for the development and construction of capital projects in towns and villages and rural areas across Ireland. To date, 215 projects have been approved for funding of €395 million for projects costing €542 million.

The Fund is central to achieving the objectives and key deliverables of "Our Rural Future" – the Government's five year policy for Rural Ireland. The projects supported by the Fund assist in the regeneration of rural towns and villages by addressing vacancy and dereliction, and positioning them for further growth through regeneration and town centre renewal. The Fund also invests in strategic projects that contribute to further economic development in rural areas. 

In November 2022, I announced funding of €115 million for 23 projects worth a total of €162 million from the fourth call for Category 1 applications. This is the largest allocation of funding since the RRDF was established. The projects announced will be delivered across two phases

As part of that announcement, I allocated funding of over €30 million in total for three projects led by Tipperary County Council.  €14.4 million for the Carrick-on-Suir Regeneration project in Phase 1, €11.9 million for the Activating Cahir’s Town Centre Regeneration project and €4.5 million for the Reimagining and Regeneration Gantly Street in Phase 2.

The projects in Phase 1 can be commenced once the due diligence process is completed with my Department. I am informed by my officials that the RRDF letter of offer and funding agreement will issue for the Carrick-on-Suir Regeneration project shortly.

The projects in Phase 2 will be delivered based on a timeframe to be agreed upon with my Department and Tipperary County Council. The timeframe will be linked to the level of progress achieved on Phase 1 projects and on other existing Rural Regeneration and Development Fund projects currently being progressed by Tipperary County Council.

The scale of this announcement will guarantee that there is a pipeline of ambitious projects that are ready to be delivered over the coming years. My Department will work with the successful lead parties to manage their project pipeline and ensure that approved projects progress at a sustainable pace.

Question No. 1621 answered with Question No. 1620.

Rural Schemes

Questions (1622)

Noel Grealish

Question:

1622. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if grants are available to communities to refurbish parish halls; if the halls in question are owned by the parish or dioceses and not on a long-term lease to the community; the steps, if any need to be taken to ensure that communities can apply for grants in this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13661/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

My Department recognises the vital role that community centres, play at the heart of each community in bringing people together, engaging with those who may be marginalised or disadvantaged, and building stronger, more coherent communities. Under Our Rural Future there are a number of avenues open to community groups to refurbish these buildings include the CLÁR Programme, the Community Centres Investment Fund (CCIF), the Community Recognition Fund (CRF), the LEADER Programme and the Community Support Fund.

The CLÁR Programme provides funding for small-scale projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population over a defined period. The CLÁR 2022 programme awarded a record €12.2 million with 292 projects supported under the Programme. One of these measures was focused on the development of community facilities and amenities including refurbishment of halls. Measures for inclusion in the CLÁR Programme are reviewed each year. I am happy to confirm details of the 2023 program will also be announced in the coming weeks.

In 2022, I launched a new fund, the Community Centres Investment Fund (CCIF). Following competitive assessment, I was pleased to announce significant investment of over €45 million in 858 projects. I was delighted to secure an additional €21m in Budget 2023 for a new round of the CCIF. The focus now will be on "new builds". The details of the 2023 scheme are currently being developed and I hope to issue a call for applications in the coming weeks.

My Department launched the €50m Community Recognition Fund (CRF) earlier this year. This fund is specifically targeted at projects that are located in communities, towns and villages that are hosting the Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection and/or International Protection Applicants. The Fund will support the development of facilities that will be used by all members of the community. It provides funding for enhancement to parish facilities which are open to use by all of the community. Local authorities have submitted funding proposals to my Department which are currently being assessed.

The LEADER Programme is a key intervention implemented by my Department which will help to underpin the Government's rural development goals as outlined in 'Our Rural Future'. The LEADER programme is delivered through 29 Local Action Groups (LAGs) across rural Ireland. A feature of the LEADER programme is that it is based on a community-led, bottom-up approach to rural development. Support under the LEADER programme is provided under a broad range of themes, including the Social Inclusion Theme in the current LEADER programme or the Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion theme in the 2023-2027 programme. Funding for community facilities may be available under these themes. In order for a project to be eligible for LEADER funding, it must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved Local Development Strategy in the sub-regional area concerned, and it must comply with the Operating Rules and EU Regulations in place for the programme. Prospective applicants should, in the first instance, contact their relevant LAG, through its Implementing Partner, to discuss the eligibility of the project and the funding that may be available. The list of all LAGs, their Implementing Partners and their contact details, is available on my Department’s website.

Finally, the Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) provides funding to community groups and organisations across Ireland, with a focus on areas of disadvantage. Funding is provided to each local authority, and the programme is administered by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDC) on the basis of local need. The €10 million Community Support Fund, launched in 2022 is a new fund under the CEP, which is assisting community groups across the country deal with rising energy and operational costs such as electricity bills and insurance costs. Groups can also use the funding to carry out small upgrade or refurbishment works and purchase equipment.

It is a requirement of the various funding streams that any funded facility is open to use by all members of the community. Different conditions apply to the various Schemes but in the main applications for funding are made by, or in partnership with, a local community group. The applicant must own the facility or have a 15 year lease for the facility.

Island Communities

Questions (1623)

Holly Cairns

Question:

1623. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide her response to the recommendation in the UCC report Housing and Sustaining Communities on the West Cork Islands to 'Set up an island resettlement fund, in conjunction with innovative schemes to promote employment and remote working on the islands'; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13722/23]

Written answers

Minister for Rural and Community Development

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department is currently finalisng a new National Islands Policy. This policy will set out the Government's vision for supporting and sustaining our island communities.

Officials from my Department have engaged with the authors of the report referred to by the Deputy in order to discuss their findings and recommendations. The recommendations are now being considered in the context of the forthcoming National Islands Policy.