Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 July 2019
14. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if assistance will be provided to a centre (details supplied) to continue to provide essential community services in view of the fact that it is faced with significant costs for fire safety works and renovations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30090/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides a range of supports to communities nationwide, helping people to participate in the development of their communities and providing funding to improve community facilities. I am aware of the current situation in Hartstown Community Centre and I know how important the centre is to the community there.
Community facilities are funded from a range of different sources across different Government Departments and agencies. In many cases, they also receive funding supports from the local authority, as is the case in Hartstown.
My Department funds the Community Enhancement Programme which funded capital projects to the total value of €12.5m in 2018 and can be used to contribute towards the renovation of community infrastructure such as community centres. There is an initial allocation of €4.5m nationally under this programme in 2019. The Programme is administered locally by the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) in each Local Authority area. Fingal County Council has been allocated €163,310 in respect of the CEP this year.
Given my overall responsibility within Government for Community Development, I am looking at ways in which my Department might assist in finding a resolution to this particular situation. I understand the local authority concerned, Fingal County Council, is also engaging with the Centre.
