Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 October 2023
732. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development what capital funding streams are open to community groups, such as men's sheds, that are seeking to either build or acquire a permanent facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42669/23]
View answerMy Department provides a range of supports which are available to community groups, such as Men's Sheds, depending on the works being completed.
Men's Sheds were eligible to apply for funding under the Community Support Fund (CSF) that was announced last November as part of the Community Enhancement Programme (CEP). The €10 million CSF was set up to help small community groups with their energy/running costs but also to provide funding for small capital works projects. The CSF is now closed and details of successful Men’s Sheds are available at www.gov.ie/DRCD. Since 2018, over €2 million in funding was allocated to Men’s Sheds under the CEP.
While there is likely to be a new iteration of the Community Enhancement Programme in late 2023, the exact scope is yet to be determined. Groups are encouraged to engage with their Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs), Local Development Companies and Public Participation Networks (PPNs) to ensure they are aware of funding opportunities as they become available.
The 2023 Town and Village Renewal Scheme is designed to support the revitalisation of rural Ireland through projects focusing on town centre regeneration, enhancing our streetscapes and bringing vacant and derelict buildings back into use as community multi-purpose spaces through refurbishment and renovation. The Scheme is administered through Local Authorities and is open to applications by close of business on 10th November 2023.
The 2023-2027 LEADER programme will support a broad range of activities which aim to respond to the diversity of the local needs of our rural areas. Community groups, such as Men's Sheds, may be considered eligible for funding under the LEADER programme. Interested applicants should, in the first instance, contact the relevant LAG in their area to discuss project eligibility and available funding. Details of LAGs are available on my Department's website at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/c45498-local-action-groups .
The emergence of the Men’s Sheds in recent years has been a very positive development for communities across Ireland. They provide a safe, comfortable and inclusive environment where people of all ages can share skills and work on meaningful projects and connect with their communities.
My Department will continue to provide supports through our relevant existing funding streams to support community groups. Details on all programmes and funding available are published on my Department’s website www.drcd.gov.ie
