Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
71. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide an update on any engagement her Department has had with the Department of Transport and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in relation to the enhancement of the LIS allocations for counties affected by recent flooding, particularly County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10356/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of Our Rural Future, the Government is committed to ensuring that the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) is funded into the future.
In 2023 alone, a record investment of almost €30 million was allocated to local authorities nationwide, bringing the total amount invested in LIS since its re-introduction in 2017 to almost €130 million. €422,764 was allocated to Louth County Council in 2023 to complete works on their list of priority roads.
In 2024, €13.55 million has been allocated to the scheme, an increase of €1 million on the initial funding allocated in 2023. An announcement on county allocations for 2024 will be made shortly.
Whilst my Department is pleased to support efforts to ensure a high standard of roads in rural areas, primary responsibility for the upkeep and repair on public roads remains within the remit of the local authorities and the Department of Transport. Flood relief initiatives and associated schemes are funded via the Office of Public Works and local authorities. Eligible households can also apply for assistance under the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
I would also like to confirm that I have made numerous representations to my colleague, the Minister for Transport regarding contributing to a jointly funded Local Improvement Scheme. I will continue to engage with the Minister and in the meantime I will work with local authorities to ensure that the LIS continues to deliver maximum benefits in rural communities across Ireland.
