Community Development.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 March 2004

Tuesday, 23 March 2004

Ceisteanna (596)

Mary Upton

Ceist:

596 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position on important community development applications for lower Crumlin and Drimnagh; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8853/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

The Deputy will be aware of the commitment under Partnership 2000 to identify 30 priority areas for inclusion in the community development programme, thereby continuing the development of a nationwide network of projects. In 2003 as many as 15 priority areas were funded and the remainder, including lower Crumlin and Drimnagh, are proposed for inclusion before the end of the year.

Recently my Department received work plans from both areas. They are being assessed and officials from my Department will contact the groups concerned. My Department has contracted the Draíocht Regional Support Agency to continue supporting the management committees in these areas in the intervening period.