John Lahart
Question:2097. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she is planning to launch a further community recognition fund round; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38967/23]
View answerMonday, 11 September 2023
Questions (2097)
Written answers
Earlier this year, accompanied by the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Minister Stephen Donnelly and Minister of State Joe O’Brien, I announced details of €50 million in funding for over 880 projects under the Community Recognition Fund.
At its core, this Fund recognises the efforts of communities who have gone above and beyond what might be expected during what has been a very challenging period. It will support towns and villages nationwide that have shown such generosity in welcoming people from Ukraine and other countries. The Fund is separate in its objectives and scope to any other public funding streams which aim to support the development of public service.
Through this initiative, communities will be assisted to develop projects ranging from large-scale multi-purpose sports facilities to walkways, cycle paths, playgrounds, equipment for sports clubs and community festivals. I look forward to seeing the benefits for communities across the country as these projects are delivered over the coming months.
The entire €50m fund has been allocated across all local authorities based on the number of new arrivals located there. It follows an extensive consultation process with local authorities who submitted individual list of projects for approval.
I have been delighted with the uptake of and engagement with the Fund to date. As part of the budgetary discussions, I will give consideration to seeking funding to ensure the continuation of this important support in the future. A key priority of course remains ensuring delivery of the range of projects approved across the country over the course of 2023 and 2024.