Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 June 2018
1180. Deputy Pat Casey asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if the request from the public participation network in each local authority to have an increase in resources has been agreed due to the volume of the vital work they perform on behalf of the community and voluntary sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24713/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince 2015, funding of up to €50,000 per annum has been made available by my Department in respect of each Public Participation Network (PPN), provided this was supplemented by a minimum of €30,000 per annum from each local authority's own resources. This funding is used to meet the cost of a PPN Resource Worker and on-going operational costs such as office accommodation and training. In addition, my Department continues to support the on-going development of the PPN network through the establishment and support of the National PPN Advisory Group, the provision of a data base and the development of a practical User Guide.
I am aware of the request for additional resources to support the work of PPNs which has been raised with my Department through the PPN Advisory Group. This will be considered in the context of the Estimates process for 2019.
