Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 December 2021
711. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the level of support provided to hubs, such as those that are part of the Connected Hubs initiative since the start of 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60008/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department operates a number of schemes that focus on projects supporting the development of remote working hubs as outlined in Our Rural Future– Ireland’s Rural Development Policy 2021-2025.
To date, over €83m has been provided by my Department through various funding streams to support the development of digital hubs and remote working facilities across Ireland. The figure since the start of 2020 is some €31m.
The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme both support the establishment of digital hubs. Under this year's schemes, projects that bring vacant properties in town centres back into use as remote working hubs or repurpose community of publicly owned buildings as hubs were eligible for funding.
Earlier this year I also awarded almost €9 million in funding through the Connected Hubs funding stream to more than 100 successful applicants from across the country.
My Department also supports the development of the Connected Hubs Network - www.connectedhubs.ie. The National network offers a suite of booking and hub management applications to its members. The Network will also facilitate the sharing of innovation, experience and best practices across the community. There are currently 170 hubs live on the platform, with this number growing every week.
Support provided by my Department will serve to maximise benefit to member hubs, hub clients, employers, local communities and the wider economy. The development of a national hubs network is a key commitment in Our Rural Future and I am committed to continuing my Department's support for the strategic development of remote working hubs in recognition of the vital role that they can play in our post-Covid recovery.
