Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
816. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development when details of the 2024 Community Support Fund for enhancing facilities in disadvantaged communities will be announced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10368/24]
View answerLast December I launched the 2024 Local Enhancement Programme (LEP). The LEP replaces the Department’s Community Enhancement Programme and its previous iterations, including the Community Support Fund and has 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 the Department locally by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) across the country, with support from their Local Authority. The LEP is currently active and Community Groups should engage with the relevant LCDC for further information and details regarding the LEP in their area. 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 the Department’s website www.gov.ie/drcd in quarter 2 of 2024.
