Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 May 2018
164. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development his plans for various voluntary and community groups and projects throughout the country and County Kildare in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19292/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department delivers a variety of schemes that provide support for the sustainable development of communities in line with commitments in, inter alia, the Programme for Partnership Government and the Action Plan for Rural Development. These schemes and programmes include flagship programmes such as the LEADER and the Social Inclusion and Community Activation (SICAP) Programmes, the Community Services Programme, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, the CLÁR Programme, the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS), the Seniors Alert Scheme, RAPID, and the Communities Facilities Scheme.
My Department is also responsible for the overall administration of the Dormant Accounts Fund. The legislation governing Dormant Accounts provides the framework for the disbursement of funds to measures targeted at socially, economically and educationally disadvantaged people and people with a disability. Depending on their focus, these measures would be implemented in urban and rural areas all across the country.
I am also very pleased to be able to continue and enhance some key initiatives, many of which are delivered by the Voluntary and Community Sector, as well as some private providers, such as SICAP, Seniors Alert and the volunteering programme.
All schemes are open to applications from relevant parties who meet the specific eligibility criteria during the application timeframes set for each scheme or programme. My Department will continue to work with key stakeholders including local authorities, community and voluntary groups, and dedicated agencies, to deliver and review these schemes and programmes, including the eligibility criteria, to ensure that maximum use is obtained from the resources allocated and that value for money is delivered in respect of the 2018 schemes and programmes.
Further information on schemes and programmes can be found on my Department's website www.drcd.gov.ie.
