Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2024
595. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development when funding will be announced for this year's local improvement schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4100/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) supports the improvement of rural roads and laneways that are not normally maintained by local authorities. The scheme makes an important contribution to connectivity in rural Ireland. As part of Our Rural Future, the Government is committed to ensuring that the scheme is funded into the future.
The scheme was re-introduced in 2017 following a number of years with no dedicated funding. Between 2017 and 2023, this Department has allocated almost €130 million towards improvement works on over 4,000 non-public roads and lanes. These works have benefitted over 20,000 landowners and residents in rural Ireland.
In 2023 alone, almost €30 million in funding was allocated to local authorities across the country, a record investment which demonstrates my commitment to addressing the demand for this scheme.
I am happy to confirm that the allocation in respect of the total scheme for 2024 has already been determined as part of the Budget 2024 and €13.55 million has been allocated to LIS, an increase of €1 million on the initial funding in 2023.
I hope to make an announcement on the launch of this year's scheme shortly in order to give local authorities as much time as possible to complete their lists of priority roads. My Department officials will liaise closely with local authorities to ensure funding is fully utilised.
