Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 October 2021
943. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will suggest funding possibilities for a school (details supplied) that falls outside the CLÁR area outlined on the map. [50652/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Education has primary responsibility for the provision of funding for school facilities and may have an appropriate funding steam for the type of interventions referred to by the Deputy.
The CLÁR Programme provides funding under a number of different Measures for small-scale infrastructural projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population over a defined period. The Outdoor Community Recreation Facilities Measure (Measure 2) of the CLÁR 2021 programme provided funding for playgrounds and Multi Use Games Areas (MUGAs), including on those located on school grounds that are fully accessible to the public. However, as the Deputy is aware, the school referred to is not in a CLÁR area and is not eligible for this funding.
The Community Enhancement Programme provides small capital grants to community groups to enhance facilities, including playgrounds, in disadvantaged areas. Funding is allocated by my Department to each Local Authority area. The Local Community Development Committees, with support from their Local Authority, administers the funding. The school may be eligible to apply for funding under that scheme depending on the nature of project and if the facility will be fully accessible to the public.
