Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 November 2023
362. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if additional time will be provided in respect of the drawdown of a grant for a project in Kerry (details supplied) to allow for greater consultation with the local community; if so, how much time will be given to the community to complete this process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51782/23]
View answerIn May of this year, together with Government colleagues, I announced details of €50 million in funding for over 880 projects under the Community Recognition Fund.
The Fund aims to support the development of facilities that will be used in the future by all members of the community. Projects approved under this funding include enhancement works to community and sports facilities and improvements to recreational amenities such as the provision of lighting and outdoor gym equipment.
The full €50 million was allocated in a single tranche and projects were approved on the basis that they could be completed before the end of 2024. The delivery of this funding is being managed at a local level by each individual local authority. My officials have been engaging with local authorities in relation to the delivery of projects under the Fund, and have extended flexibility as required to ensure the delivery of high quality projects. I have asked my officials to contact Kerry County Council in relation to the specific project referenced by the Deputy in order to discuss appropriate timelines for delivery.
