My Department was founded in 2017 with a mission to promote rural and community development and to support vibrant, inclusive and sustainable communities throughout Ireland. To this end, there are numerous grant schemes administered by my Department with the support of third parties such as Local Authorities and Local Development Companies. Further information on funding schemes can be found on my Department's website www.drcd.gov.ie.
While my Department does not have specific funding streams for the association, or groups under the association, referenced by the Deputy they may apply under the various schemes operated by my Department. As with any applicant, their applications will be assessed against the criteria of the scheme or schemes that they apply to.
Groups under the association referenced have been successful in previous rounds of funding under such schemes as the Community Centre Investment Fund, the Leader Programme, the Clár Programme, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and the Connected Communities Initiative.
My Department does not provide borrowing facilities to groups.