Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
955. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when she will announce successful applicants under the 2017 town and village renewal scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27782/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI launched the 2017 Town and Village Renewal Scheme on 13th April last, with funding of €20 million available to support the revitalisation of up to 300 rural towns and villages over the next 12 months. The scheme is funded by my Department and will be delivered through the Local Authorities. This year’s scheme builds on the 2016 programme and a number of changes have been introduced to strengthen its impact. Applications are particularly encouraged from projects which have clear positive economic impacts on a town or village, or which stimulate economic activity between a town and its neighbouring townlands.
Projects which demonstrate leveraging of, or linkages with, complementary schemes operated by other Departments or agencies in areas such as tourism, heritage or business supports will also be favourably considered.
The closing date for receipt of applications from the Local Authorities is 30th June 2017. My officials will commence the assessment process immediately after this date, with the objective of the successful applicants being announced before the end of July.
