Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2023
719. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the grants currently available or due to become available for improvement works to community centres; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10189/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraCommunity Centres are the cornerstone of community life in towns, villages and parishes across the country.
Since my appointment as Minister for Rural and Community Development, I have placed a key focus on the development of these important facilities.
In 2022, I launched the new Community Centres Investment Fund.
Grants of up to €300,000 were available for the upgrade and renovation of existing community centres.
The types of works eligible for funding included:
- upgrades to kitchen and toilet facilities
- energy retrofitting including the provision of new windows, doors and heating systems
- works to improve disability access
- Other essential maintenance works such as fire safety improvements, repairs to floor/roof, etc
There was huge demand for the scheme with over 1000 applications received. All applications were subject to a competitive assessment following which I was pleased to announce €45.5million in funding for 858 successful projects.
In addition to upgrading existing centres, I know that there are a number of areas in the country that would love to have new facilities for their communities to enjoy and I am fully committed to doing all I can to support them.
In this regard, I was delighted to secure €21million in Budget 2023 for a new round of the Community Centre Investment Fund which will be targeted specifically at new build community centres.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that details of the 2023 scheme are currently being developed and I hope to issue a call for applications in March.
Separately, community centres can apply to the Community Support Fund which provides supports to small groups who are struggling with energy/running costs and for small capital works. Groups should contact their Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) for details of this fund.
