Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 February 2024
594. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she can confirm receipt of a request for an extension of the community centre investment fund project allocation from (details supplied) for six months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5077/24]
View answerCommunity Centres are the cornerstone of community life in towns and villages around the country. This Government recognises the important role that these centres play in bringing people together and facilitating community services and events.
I have prioritised the development and enhancement of Community Centres across the country to improve access and provide suitable places for social gatherings in communities.
With this in mind, my Department has developed an extensive range of funding streams that are available to support communities and community facilities. Under the 2022 Community Centre Investment Fund in particular, over €45.8 million was committed for improvement and refurbishment of existing community centres across Ireland. There was a huge uptake of this funding and over 860 different projects are seeing improvements to the fabric of their community centres as a result of this Government initiative.
I understand that in excess of 140 of these projects are now complete and that good progress is being made on the remaining approvals.
I can confirm that the extension request referred to by the Deputy has been received and processed by my officials. An extension up until the end of July 2024 has been agreed. I would encourage the committee in question to update my officials regularly on their progress.
