Niall Collins
Ceist:303. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she can help a community project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8501/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 22 February 2024
Ceisteanna (303)
Freagraí scríofa
The project referred to by the Deputy received a funding allocation under the Community Recognition Fund. This fund supports towns and villages nationwide that have shown such generosity in welcoming people from Ukraine and other countries.
The Community Recognition Fund is administered locally by each local authority. A funding proposal, comprising projects selected and prioritised locally, was submitted to my Department by each local authority for final approval.
Proposals were required to be developed locally following direct engagement with impacted communities and consultation with the Municipal Districts, Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) and the local Community Response Fora.
The project referred to by the Deputy was selected by the relevant local authority. In most authorities, the level of funding sought far exceeded the available budget and each local authority sought to prioritise projects based on identified priorities and gaps in local infrastructure.
The project referred to, which relates to community childcare services, requested funding of €350,000 and a decision was made at local authority level to propose funding of €149,485. I understand that the project costs have risen further in the interim. There is no provision for additional funding to be provided for individual projects under this fund over and above their original allocation. I would encourage the group referred to by the Deputy to engage with their local authority to explore the impact of the increased costs on project delivery.
I also understand that the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth will respond directly to the Deputy in relation to the funding of school age childcare services.