Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2026
448. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht when applications for the next round of the Community Centre Investment Fund will open; whether it will be for new builds or refurbishments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8947/26]
View answer450. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht whether he is satisfied that current funding levels under the Community Centres Investment Fund are sufficient to meet demand; and the assessment he has made of the backlog of unfunded projects. [9093/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 448 and 450 together.
Since becoming Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, I have prioritised investment in community infrastructure. As part of Budget 2026, I was delighted to announce increased funding for the programmes that are delivering on this priority. This includes an increase in the annual budget for the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF) by €3 million to €20 million.
The CCIF was introduced to provide high quality, accessible, community spaces that are available to all groups in all communities in both rural and urban areas. €110 million has been allocated since 2022 for the enhancement and refurbishment of existing community centres and the construction of new centres where such a need has been identified. Over 1,600 community centre projects have been approved since 2022, delivering real and tangible benefits in the supported communities. This is more than three quarters of all applications received.
In 2026 I will deliver another round of CCIF that will support refurbishment works on existing community centres. Work is currently ongoing in relation to the details of this new round of funding.
In addition, my Department supports community facilities with enhancement works through a range of other funding streams including through the CLÁR programme, LEADER and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. I would encourage organisations to check my Department’s website for information on funding opportunities and announcements.
