Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
1492. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the options available from her Department and other related agencies to a volunteer-run community centre in County Louth (details supplied) that wishes to explore the installation of roof solar panels and EV charging points; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35925/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department recognises the vital role that community centres play at the heart of each community in bringing people together, engaging with those who may be marginalised or disadvantaged, and building stronger, more coherent communities.
In recent years, grants under the Town and Village Renewal Schemes, CLÁR Programme, LEADER Programme and the Community Enhancement Programme have supported the development of, and improvements to, community facilities including community centres. Such centres represent a safe, positive and accessible space for all manner of community activities.
The Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) supports small to medium capital projects which enhance the environment of town or village centres. This includes renovation or refurbishment to existing community centres where there is a clearly identified need or rationale. Under TVRS grant funding for projects ranges from €20,000 to €500,000. We strive to support vibrant, inclusive and sustainable projects for communities throughout Ireland and support the National Planning Framework commitments through targeted policy and investment that empowers communities, supports sustainable rural regeneration and fosters regional growth.
I launched CLÁR 2023 on 29 March 2023, Measure 1 of that scheme provides funding for Developing Community Facilities and Amenities. Applications for this year’s programme have been submitted to my Department and are currently being considered by my officials
The LEADER programme has been operating successfully in Ireland for over 30 years, and is based on a community-led approach to rural development. Over that time LEADER has demonstrated a very strong track record in supporting communities and enterprises in progressing job creation, social inclusion and environmental projects at local level. The process to select Local Actions Groups to deliver the 2023-2027 LEADER programme is under way at present. Full details of the selection process are available on my Department’s website. The consultative processes that underpin the development of the new programme have identified a number of key themes that will provide the framework for the LEADER programme in the 2023-207 programme. These themes are:
• Economic development and job creation
• Rural infrastructure and social inclusion, and
• Sustainable development of the rural environment and climate change mitigation and adaptation
The organisation as referred to by the Deputy may be eligible for funding under these themes. In the first instance contact should be made with the Local Action group for the area. LAG details are available on the Department’s website. The 2023-2027 LEADER programme will be operational in Quarter 3 of this year and I look forward to its implementation and to ensuring that LEADER can continue to deliver real benefits to rural communities across Ireland.
I encourage all organisations to check my department’s website gov.ie - Department of Rural and Community Development and to keep in touch with their Local Community Development Committee for information on funding opportunities.
I understand that The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) also operates a Community Grant Scheme. The Community Grant programme supports new approaches to achieving energy efficiency in Irish communities. Such grants may be available to community organisation who wish to improve the energy efficiency of community buildings.
