Michael Ring
Ceist:245 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs if he will sanction funding to a voluntary and community group (details supplied) in County Mayo. [8868/01]
Written Answers. - Community Development.
My Department has for a number of years operated a range of grants schemes and community development support programmes which concentrate on a wide range of support for local self-help groups, community development, welfare rights and information work, and on the provision of seed money to enable community groups to pilot initiatives identified as meeting new and emerging community needs.
The 2001 scheme of grants was advertised extensively in the national and provincial newspapers earlier this year. The closing date for receipt of applications was 23 March 2001. The group indicated in the Deputy's question has applied for funding under the 2001 scheme of grants to voluntary organisations. A large number of applications have already been received under the scheme and are being assessed by the regional offices of my Department. My Department will be in touch with the group as soon as a decision has been made regarding its application.