Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2023
651. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development when the latest round of Clár announcements will have funding paid out to respective successful groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46278/23]
View answerThe 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.
The 2023 CLÁR programme was launched 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.
The measures to be funded are:
• Developing Community Facilities and Amenities (Measure 1)
• Mobility, Cancer Care and Community First Responders Transport (Measure 2)
• ‘Our Islands’ (Measure 3)
Some 330 applications have been received across all the measures. CLÁR 2023 is now closed for the receipt of applications.
I was pleased to announce in August last the approval of funding of over €2million for 37 projects under Measure 2.
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.
Funding is paid out on these projects as they are delivered. The first claim for payment may be submitted when 50% of the estimated project costs have been expended. The successful applicants are advised of the arrangements after the announcement of the successful projects.
