Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
2087. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the number of valid applications received for assistance under the new facilities grant for new, large community facilities; when decisions will be made on these applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37712/23]
View answerCommunity centres are the cornerstone of community life in many towns, villages and urban areas around the country. This Government recognises the important role they play in community life in Ireland, bringing people together and engaging with those who may be marginalised or disadvantaged.
With this in mind, I have put in place an integrated programme of supports for the establishment and development of community centres across schemes such as CLÁR, LEADER, the Community Support Fund, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, and of course the new Community Centres Investment Fund.
The 2022 Community Centres Investment Fund saw over €45.8 million being committed to the improvement and refurbishment of existing community centres across Ireland.
My aim under the 2023 round of funding is to support communities with shovel-ready plans to build new community centres.
I was delighted to announce a €20 million fund in March for ‘shovel-ready’ new build community centre projects on green or brownfield sites. The Measure was open to both urban and rural communities. The minimum grant funding available was €1 million with the maximum being €6 million. As the grant funding is substantial, and for the purposes of compliance with public financial procedures, the lead party to an application must be a State-funded body, for example a local authority, a local development company or a State agency.
Following the July 3rd deadline for applications, I can confirm that 22 applications have been submitted in relation to The Community Centre Investment Fund 2023 (New Build). These applications are currently being assessed by my Department and it is expected that successful projects will be announced in the coming months.
