Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2019
1379. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if funding can be provided under rural regeneration for small schools schemes for a bus service (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19394/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Rural Regeneration and Development Fund was established as part of Project Ireland 2040 to support ambitious and strategic projects which have the potential to transform rural economies and communities. The Government has committed €1 billion over 10 years to the Fund.
The Fund is there to support capital projects which seek to deliver key outcomes, amongst which are sustainable community and economic development in rural Ireland; the revitalisation and regeneration of towns and villages; the encouragement of entrepreneurship and innovation; the development of key economic growth sectors such as tourism; improved community development and quality of life; the protection of the environment and our heritage assets; and the development of cultural life in rural areas.
The first call to the fund closed in September 2018. €86 million in funding was approved under the first call to the Fund. The second call for applications to the Fund is open until August 2019 and will support capital regeneration projects which are ready to commence with funding available of at least €500,000.
Have regard to the objectives outlined above and the details you supplied it appears the project will not qualify for funding under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund.
