Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
604. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the funding schemes administered by his Department which a club (details supplied) could apply to for support the redevelopment of a clubhouse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3080/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has a wide range of grant supports which are available to community groups across the country. While my Department does not have a scheme specifically for the redevelopment of sports club facilities, there may be an avenue of support available for elements of this project under LEADER or the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF).The LEADER programme has a strong focus on community facilities, with funding available under themes such as rural infrastructure and social inclusion. In order for a project to be eligible for LEADER funding, the proposed activity must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved LEADER Local Development Strategy for the area and it must comply with the EU Regulations and Operating Rules.LEADER projects are selected and approved by the Local Action Group (LAG) in each area, and my Department has no role in approving projects. Prospective applicants can discuss a potential project for the community with their LAG. The LAG for the Kinvara region is Galway Rural Development who can be contacted by phone at 091- 844335 or by e-mail at [leader@grd.ie] Regarding the CCIF, this fund was introduced to provide high quality, accessible, community spaces that are available to all groups in all communities in both rural and urban areas. Some €110 million has been allocated since 2022 for the enhancement and refurbishment of existing community centres and the construction of new centres. I am committed to delivering further iterations of the scheme in the coming years in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government for this to become a permanent rolling fund. I expect to deliver the next round of CCIF early this year, which will focus on refurbishment work in existing community centres. The details in this regard are currently being finalised. I would encourage groups to check my Department’s website where details will be published.
