Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1873. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of an application by an organisation (details supplied) to Pobal for funding for an additional full- time worker; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1328/24]
View answerMy Department's Community Services Programme (CSP) supports over 430 community-based organisations, to provide local services through a social enterprise model. CSP provides an annual co-funding contribution towards each full-time equivalent (FTE) position being supported, and, where warranted, towards the cost of employing a manager. A call for applications for additional staff support from organisations currently funded under the CSP programme was launched on 1st September 2023 with a closing date of 29th September. Pobal, who manage and administer the programme on behalf of my Department, provided organisations with application supports and hosted an online information session on 13th September.Applications received are currently being assessed by Pobal. I can confirm that the organisation in question submitted an application for an additional post.I refer the Deputy to PQ 45759/23 of 18th October 2023, which indicated that due to the volume of applications received for this additional funding call, the assessment process will take some time. It is expected that Pobal's recommendations will be submitted to my Department in the coming weeks and once reviewed by the Department, notifications will issue to organisations shortly thereafter. Funding for additional staff is dependent on the availability of funding.It is also suggested that the organisation should make contact with their Local Development Company or Local Authority who may be able to provide some guidance on other supports available at this time. Their local Intreo Office may be able to assist with the possibility of additional staff resources from activation programmes such as Community Employment or Tús.
