Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 July 2018
322. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development his plans to expand funding to rural training groups such as a group (details supplied) in order to provide additional and follow-on training courses in rural communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29547/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides funding to the organisation in question under the Scheme to Support National Organisations and the funding scheme for members of the Community and Voluntary Pillar. My Department does not provide programme funding for rural training.
The Scheme to Support National Organisations (SSNO) has a primary focus on the provision of core funding to national organisations that demonstrate good governance and deliver services and supports that have a focus on one or more of the following: addressing poverty, social exclusion and promoting equality. The current three-year scheme is due to close in June 2019 and a new scheme will be put in place before then. In that context, my Department has invited submissions on the future direction of the SSNO from participants and other stakeholders.
My Department also provides funding to members of the Community and Voluntary Pillar to allow for input into the policy making process within the community and voluntary sector.
I understand that the organisation in question also receives funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for its role in leading the consortium running the National Rural Network under the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.
