Robert Troy
Question:299. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide an update on the assessment of all CLÁR applications; and when she expects to announce the funding. [41998/23]
View answerThursday, 28 September 2023
Questions (299, 301)
Robert Troy
Question:301. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will approve a CLÁR application for four groups (details supplied). [42000/23]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 299 and 301 together.
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 over 2,100 projects with funding of over €59 million. This funding is making a real difference in many of our smaller and more remote communities.
I launched the 2023 programme in March this year. Funding of almost €8 million has been allocated for the 2023 CLÁR programme which is an increase of €0.5m on 2022.
Measure 1 of the programme will support the development of community facilities and amenities including sports facilities, youth clubs, playgrounds, sensory gardens and walking tracks.
Measure 2 supports voluntary groups that provide free transport to people receiving cancer care and other treatment. I was pleased last month to announce the approval of funding of over €2million for 37 projects under Measure 2.
The third and final measure is designed to support offshore island communities with funding for community transport and amenity projects.
In relation to the specific groups referenced by the Deputy, my Department did not receive an application from Streamstown TidyTowns under CLÁR 2023. However, I can confirm that applications have been received from Rosemount Community Committee, Rosemount GAA Club and St Owens/Market Hill under measure 1 of the programme. The assessment process is well advanced in relation to measures 1 and 3 of the programme. I expect to be in a position to make a decision on the successful measure 1 and 3 projects in the coming weeks.