Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 September 2023
78. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the support her Department is providing for the proposed Water Hub in Carlow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41336/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) is funded by my Department under Our Rural Future. The Scheme provides funding for the development and enhancement of outdoor recreational infrastructure such as walking trails, cycleways, blue ways and bridleways throughout rural Ireland. Since the launch of the scheme in 2016, funding in excess of €106 million has supported more than 1,500 projects across the country.
Measures 2 and 3 of the 2023 ORIS aim to provide funding for the development of medium and large scale recreational infrastructure. The deadline for applications under Measure 2 and 3 is October 27th , 2023. No application for the proposed water activity hub has been received to date under ORIS.
I understand, however, that it is the intention of Carlow local authority to apply for Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Funding for the proposed water activity hub in Carlow Town Park once the programme is opened for applications. This scheme falls under the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.
