asked the Minister for the Environment if he will make funds available to the Saint Helena Community Association in Finglas, County Dublin, to enable them to build a community centre in the area.
112.
Written Answers. - Community Centres.
111.
asked the Minister for the Environment if he will introduce a scheme to make a contribution to loan charges incurred by local community groups towards the erection of community premises; and, if so, when it is proposed to introduce such a scheme.
I propose to take questions Nos. 111 and 112 together.
There are no plans to introduce a scheme to make a contribution to loan charges incurred by local community groups towards the erection of community premises. Neither are there funds available to me from which I could make grants for the provision of community centres but local authorities may assist in the provision of such centres.
Furthermore, in connection with the environmental improvement schemes programme, I have indicated to local authorities that they might consider providing assistance by way of labour to voluntary bodies in the provision of community centres under the scheme. The cost of employment of young persons recruited through the National Manpower Service for such purposes will be recouped in full under the programme. The selection of works for execution under the programme is a matter for local authorities.