Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2004
152 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his proposals for the future of the RAPID programme; the level of progress; his assessment of the programmes relative success; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9346/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI refer the Deputy to my response to Questions 107 and 110 on 9 March 2004.
153 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reasons for the contraction of community and rural development initiatives; his plans for financing such structures into the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9347/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI do not accept that there has been a contraction of community and rural development initiatives. Indeed, a considerable expansion of such initiatives has taken place or is in hands, including the extension of the CLÁR areas; the expansion of the community development programme; and the proposed introduction of the new rural social scheme. In this regard, I draw the attention of the Deputy to my replies to a range of recent questions on these issues, including Question No. 169 of 9 March 2004; Question No. 117 of 9 March 2004; Questions Nos. 122, 133, 171 and 196 of 9 March 2004; and Questions Nos. 151, 153, 156, 163, 172, 173 and 185 of 4 February 2004.
154 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the assistance his Department can offer to an organisation (details supplied) in the provision of premises for its valuable community work in Drogheda. [9367/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides once off grants by way of a scheme of grants to voluntary and community groups that focus on tackling poverty and disadvantage and enhancing community development. The scheme includes provision for refurbishment of premises or the purchase of equipment but does not provide for the purchase-building of premises. Arrangements for the 2004 scheme are currently being finalised and I expect to be in a position to announce details in the coming weeks.
