Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2026
49. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will report on the inadequacy of funding for community centres which forces them to fundraise to make ends meet rather than provide the services to the community for which they were established. [43526/26]
View answerMy Department recognises the vital role played by community centres in towns and villages across the country and the enormous contribution made by the volunteers and community organisations that manage these facilities. While many community centres undertake local fundraising to support their activities and meet ongoing operational costs, my Department provides significant support through a range of capital and current funding programmes to strengthen their sustainability and long-term viability.
Through the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF), my Department has provided significant support for the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres, including works relating to energy efficiency, accessibility, maintenance and essential improvements. Acknowledging the important role community centres play in society, some €112 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 €2.5 million has been allocated to 56 projects in County Clare in the same period. Clare’s total allocation was €1,048,097 in the latest round of funding. For example, Quin Community Centre, Tulla Courthouse and Community Centre and Mountshannon Community Hall each received grants of up to €100,000 for refurbishment and enhancement works. Other Clare projects supported included Clonlara Leisure and Sports Society Community Centre, Obair Family Centre in Newmarket-on-Fergus and Kilfenora Community Centre. These investments are helping to ensure that community facilities remain accessible, sustainable and fit for purpose.
In addition, the Community Recognition Fund (CRF) has supported community organisations and facilities in areas that have welcomed new arrivals to their communities. County Clare benefited from €2.6 million under this fund in 2024. Funding has also been made available through programmes such as the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP), which provides small-scale grants to community and voluntary groups to assist with facility improvements and equipment purchases.
The CLÁR programme provides funding under a number of different measures for small-scale infrastructural projects in designated rural areas including Community Centre enhancements and small-scale refurbishments. Last year over €14 million was approved for 238 projects under the programme, with funding being provided for community facilities and amenities, community vehicles and specific support for island communities. This included 9 projects in County Clare to the value of almost €600,000.
My Department also supports the community and voluntary sector through the Community Services Programme (CSP), the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), LEADER and supports for Local Development Companies and Public Participation Networks. Collectively, these programmes strengthen community infrastructure, build local capacity and support the delivery of services that enhance community wellbeing in County Clare and throughout the country.
