Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:410. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will support an application (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7130/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 15 February 2024
Ceisteanna (410)
Freagraí scríofa
The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund provides funding for the development and construction of capital projects in towns and villages and rural areas across Ireland.
Calls for applications to the Fund are sought under two categories – Category 1 and Category 2. Category 1 relates to large scale ambitious capital projects with all necessary planning and other consents in place, and which are ready to proceed. Category 2 provides smaller grant funding to enable the development of project proposals suitable for future calls for Category 1 applications.
The fifth call for Category 1 applications to the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund closed on the 8 February, and I can confirm that an application has been received from the organisation referenced by the Deputy.
The application process for Category 1 proposals is highly competitive in nature. All applications will be considered on merit by my Department in line with published eligibility criteria, guidelines and under the oversight of a Project Advisory Board, comprised of representatives from key Government Departments and independent experts.
Once the assessment process is complete, my Department will prepare a report setting out recommended projects. My role as Minister will be to consider that report and make final decisions in relation to the allocation of funding.
I expect to be in a position to announce the successful projects in the coming months.