Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 October 2025
367. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the steps he will take to ensure that an organisation (details supplied) are provided with home base facilities in Shannon and in every area where they require them, to enhance their work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54475/25]
View answerMy Department implements a wide range of schemes and supports which are available to community organisations and other groups across the country. While my Department does not have a specific funding scheme for operational facilities for the organisation you reference, there may be an avenue of support available under the LEADER programme or the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) operated by my Department.
The LEADER programme is part of Ireland’s CAP Strategic Plan 2023 – 2027 which is co-funded by the EU and the Exchequer. The programme is administered by Local Action Groups (LAGs) who select and approve projects for the local area.
LEADER does not fund projects on a national basis. Instead, LEADER funded projects are typically based in one LEADER area, and the decision to approve a project, or otherwise, is a matter for the LAG which administers the programme in that area. However, the LEADER programme does facilitate cooperation projects, where a number of LAGs can come together to fund a project that covers their respective geographic areas.
It should be noted that in order for a project to be eligible for LEADER funding, it must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved Local Development Strategy for the relevant LEADER area, and it must comply with the EU Regulations and Operating Rules in place for the programme.
Further information regarding the LEADER programme, including contact details for LAGs which can be approached in the first instance for advice on funding, is available on: www.gov.ie/LEADER
The Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) provides small scale capital funding to community groups and voluntary organisations across Ireland, with a focus on areas of disadvantage. The fund is administered on behalf of this Department locally by Local Community Development Committees across the country, with support from their local authority. The LEP is currently closed and details of the 2026 LEP are under consideration at the moment.
I would advise the organisation to liaise with their local LCDC and LAG and to monitor my Departments website for further updates.
