Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 November 2020
19. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he will ensure the expansion and continued funding of the rural regeneration and development fund and CLÁR scheme given the fact LEADER funding is no longer available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34100/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraRural and regional development is at the heart of the Programme for Government which includes a commitment to prioritise a State-led programme to bridge the gap between the current LEADER programme and the next EU programme. The objective of this commitment is to allow local-led rural development projects to be delivered under a Transitional Programme until the new EU programme commences. I hope to be in a position shortly to announce the details of a Transitional LEADER Programme for Ireland, to come into effect in 2021.
My Department’s new Rural Development Policy, soon to be published, recognises that strong rural economies and communities are vital in supporting and safeguarding the sustainability of vibrant towns and villages across the country. €23 million in additional investment for rural Ireland will underpin this policy, a 7 % increase in Budget 2021 to €341million.
Almost €178 million of this will support the economic and social development of rural areas and contribute to regional development.
Since 2016 over €37 million has been approved for over 1,500 projects under the CLÁR programme for disadvantaged rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population.
The CLÁR 2021 budget is increasing by 10% to €5.5 million. I also announced €4.1 million for 115 successful projects under Measures 1 and 2 of CLÁR 2020 for safety measures around schools and community facilities, including the development of community recreation areas. Successful projects under Measure 3 of the CLÁR 2020 programme are to be announced shortly.
Rural Regeneration and Development funding is delivering significant investment across the country and aiding recovery.
Under RRDF to- date:
€131 million is approved for 63 Category 1 major projects which can drive sustainable rural regeneration and development.
€35 million is approved for 76 Category 2 projects which require development funding to bring projects to a stage where they are ready to apply under Category 1 calls. The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund is increased from €78 million in 2020 to €87 million in 2021.
