Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:703. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of an application by a centre (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37217/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 18 September 2018
Ceisteanna (703)
Freagraí scríofa
The aim of CLÁR is to support the sustainable development of designated areas which have suffered significant levels of depopulation in the past, with the aim of encouraging people to continue to live and work in those areas. The programme has funded a number of measures over the last two years which support this objective.
On 8 August last, I announced details of funding for mobility and cancer care transport services under Measure 4 of the Department’s 2018 CLÁR Programme. This new Measure will support the purchase of vehicles by voluntary organisations in CLÁR areas that provide:
- transport to/from designated cancer treatment hospitals/centres under the National Cancer Care Programme, or
- transport for people with significant mobility issues to day care or other medical, therapeutic or respite services, including those requiring specialised wheelchair accessible vehicles.
The Measure will support applications of up to €50,000 for a wheelchair accessible vehicle, and up to €100,000 for a bus. CLÁR will provide up to 85% of the total cost of such vehicles, including fit-out. Matching funding of at least 15% is required from other sources. The closing date for applications under the Measure was 31st August 2018.
I can confirm that an application was received in respect of the group referred to by the Deputy. My officials are currently assessing all applications received and I hope to be in a position to announce the successful applications shortly.