Bernard Durkan
Question:604. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development to outline her ambitions for the community enhancement programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4291/24]
View answerTuesday, 30 January 2024
Questions (604)
Written answers
Last December, I was delighted to launch the 2024 Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) which replaces my Department’s Community Enhancement Programme, with capital funding of €6 million to assist thousands of community groups across the country. A key feature of the Local Enhancement Programme is that it is targeted to the specific challenges facing local community groups and delivers immediate, tangible supports where they are needed most.
In general, support under the Local Enhancement Programme is available to, for example, Parish Halls, Community Centres, Local Development Associations, Social Clubs, Senior Citizen Groups, Men’s and Women’s Sheds. The Local Enhancement Programme will provide capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.
There will be a particular focus on small capital works/improvements, and the purchase of equipment for community use. The funding may be used, but is not limited to; improved access for persons with a disability; enhancing community participation for disadvantaged and marginalised groups, and improving energy efficiency of community facilities to reduce ongoing costs.
The Local Enhancement Programme is administered on behalf of my Department locally by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) across the country, with support from their Local Authority. The relevant LCDC receive and appraise applications, making determinations on how the funding can best support their communities. Details of successful projects under the 2024 Local Enhancement Programme will be published on my Department’s website www.gov.ie/drcd in quarter 2 of 2024.
Since 2018, my Department has allocated €58.9 million in funding under the Community Enhancement Programme and its iterations, and I have seen first-hand how these small grants make a big difference for local community groups. The feedback from community groups and from the LCDCs is very positive, and as these grants deliver immediate, targeted funding support that can be used against a range of costs, they are making a real impact on the ground in communities across the country.
I look forward to continuing to deliver meaningful supports like the Local Enhancement Programme to local communities as we support them to respond to the challenges they face.
Question No. 605 answered with Question No. 118.