Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 10 May 2000

Vol. 518 No. 6

Written Answers. - Voluntary Organisations.

John Perry

Ceist:

428 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will make funding available to Culfadda History Society, Ballymote, County Sligo, for the purposes of researching, editing and publishing a history of the parish to enable the group to put on record for posterity their cultural heritage social history and traditions; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that while most of the research is completed, they will be unable to continue with their project unless grant aid is provided as this is a rural parish with no industry or employment outlets for them to approach for sponsorship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12771/00]

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

I understand that Culfadda Development Association has applied under this year's scheme of grants to voluntary organisations for funding of £3,000 towards the cost of running a show, publishing a parish history and making small improvements to the village.

The Department's grant schemes concentrate on a wide range of support for local self-help groups, community and personal development work with a focus on tackling poverty and disadvantage, welfare rights and information work. These grant schemes are aimed at developing people and their capacity to participate in society, rather than at the provision of services or at direct economic development or job creation initiatives. Funding is not available under these schemes for cultural or heritage activities and it will not be possible to allocate a grant to Culfadda Development Association. However, the local area partnership may be able to offer some assistance in this matter.

My Department's regional office in Sligo which is currently processing applications received under the above scheme, will be in touch with the group to notify it of the position.