Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
1265. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the position regarding any grant funding available that an organisation (details supplied) could apply for to support the provision of improved accessibility for older people and people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12727/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra1274. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the position regarding any grant funding available that an organisation (details supplied) could apply for to support the repair and upgrade of their community hall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12728/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1265 and 1274 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. Through the CCIF, some €110 million has been allocated since 2022 for the enhancement and refurbishment of existing community centres, including accessibility upgrades for the elderly and those with mobility issues, and also for the construction of new centres where such a need has been identified.
I am committed to delivering further iterations of the CCIF in the coming years in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government for this to become a permanent rolling fund. My officials are currently finalising the details of the next call for applications under the fund, which will focus on refurbishment to existing community centres/spaces.
I expect to open this new round of funding to applicants in the coming months with a view to announcing successful projects before the end of the year.
My Department also 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.
