Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 November 2023
259. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development what funding has been applied for specifically for a derelict building (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50366/23]
View answerThe Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) provides funding for the development and construction of capital projects in towns and villages and rural areas across Ireland. To date, 215 projects have been approved for funding of €410 million for projects costing €561 million.
Calls for applications to the Fund are sought under two categories – Category 1 and Category 2. Category 1 relates to large scale ambitious capital projects with all necessary planning and other consents in place, and which are ready to proceed. Category 2 provides smaller grant funding to enable the development of project proposals suitable for future calls for Category 1 applications.
I was delighted to officially open the new Castleblayney Library on the 10th November. This project was funded by my Department under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund and has seen the complete transformation of the previously derelict Hope Castle Gate Lodge Building. I also announced a new call for applications under the RRDF on the day and the closing date for applications is 12pm on the 8th February 2024.
My Department has not received an application for funding in respect of Hope Castle itself under previous rounds of the RRDF.
The application process under the RRDF is competitive in nature and applications can be made by State-funded bodies i.e. Local Authorities, Local Development Companies, State agencies, other Government Departments etc. Lead parties to applications are encouraged to partner with other organisations, including communities, to put forward proposals. An application form and guidance document are available on my Department’s website for those seeking further information.
