Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 February 2026
46. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the criteria for a community horse project to be included in Pobal funding; the programmes that Pobal can offer for a community horse project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8685/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraPobal works on behalf of Government, and in conjunction with communities and local agencies, to support social inclusion and local and community development. Pobal provide administrative support to my department for a wide array of programmes and schemes, including the LEADER programme, the Social Inclusion & Community Activation Programme (SICAP), the Scheme to Support National Organisations (SSNO) and so on.
Pobal also provide support to my Department for the Community Services Programme (CSP). I was delighted to secure increased funding for this important programme in 2026. The CSP funds a small number of horse related projects via a contribution towards their staffing costs. These organisations, along with over 400 other CSP supported organisations, are required to meet the programme criteria (available on the Pobal website) for CSP rather than any specific community horse project related criteria. While the CSP is currently closed for applications, it is intended to launch an open call for new applicants in the coming months. I would encourage any interested parties to check my Department and Pobal’s respective websites for details once the open call is launched.
Separate to the CSP, my department also currently provides funding of €147,840 to Dublin City Council for the Cherry Orchard Equine Centre, with which the Deputy may be familiar. This funding is paid under the Targeted Social Inclusion Measure in our Dormant Accounts Funding.
This funding is specifically targeted at social inclusion and ensures increased engagement with young travellers, marginalised youths and disadvantaged youths in the Ballyfermot/Cherry Orchard area. The centre provides a variety of supports, including youth services, engagement with Youth Diversion Projects and Crisis Intervention programmes, delivery of accredited and non-accredited equine training and supports to individuals progressing towards employment.
I would strongly encourage any community organisations or individuals seeking information on supports to make contact with their relevant Local Development Company, Local Community Development Committee, Public Participation Network and other local stakeholders, who will be best placed to advise of available and upcoming funding opportunities.
