Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 June 2013
50. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he intends winding up the RAPID programme; if not, the actions he will take to ensure this programme delivers on its aims; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28048/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe RAPID programme aims to ensure that priority attention is given to tackling the spatial concentration of poverty and social exclusion in RAPID areas nationally. The programme has made substantial progress in identifying the needs of disadvantaged communities and in bringing forward appropriate local projects in response to those needs.
I have provided funding of €2 million for RAPID in 2013, which will be used to meet the Department’s existing contractual commitments on RAPID projects throughout the country, mainly Sports Capital top-ups and CCTV systems, jointly funded with the Departments of Transport, Tourism and Sport and Justice and Equality respectively.
The RAPID programme like other community development programmes will be considered in the context of the alignment of local government and local development under the Local Government Reform Programme, Putting People First. In implementing local government reform decisions, my Department will continue to consult as necessary with the relevant stakeholders, including local authorities, Local Development Companies, RAPID Area Implementation Teams and others. My Department will seek to ensure that RAPID areas are prioritised for purposes of social inclusion measures in 2013 and beyond.
