Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2023
1463. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if there is any prohibition on the end of use of rubber materials in astro pitches for community groups (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48630/23]
View answerI understand that the Deputy's question relates to an application for LEADER funding and the regulation introduced by the European Commission in September 2023 to prohibit the sale of micro-plastics which includes the granular infill material used on artificial sport surfaces. The sales ban on such products will come into effect in 2031 following an eight year transitional period.
The LEADER programme, a key intervention of Our Rural Future, promotes a community-led approach that involves the participation of local communities in developing responses to key economic, environmental and social challenges. Using this approach LEADER emphasises the centrality of rural communities to the programme.
As the LEADER programme is administered through Local Action Groups (LAGs) across rural Ireland prospective applicants for LEADER funding for a project should, in the first instance, contact their relevant LAG to discuss the eligibility of the project and the funding that may be available. LAGs that administer the programme on behalf of my Department are required, under the Operating Rules applicable to the LEADER Programme, to adhere to relevant EU and national regulatory requirements when approving funding for a project.
