Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2026
33. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if there are plans to increase the overall allocation of funding for CLÁR programmes, in line with the expansion of the areas eligible for CLÁR funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23087/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe CLÁR programme provides funding under a number of different measures for small-scale infrastructural projects in designated rural areas. On the 10th of March I was delighted to launch the 2026 CLÁR programme. Funding will be provided for community facilities and amenities, community vehicles and specific support for island communities.
This year, following a review of CLÁR areas, I have designated an additional 110 electoral divisions (EDs) as eligible for CLÁR bringing the population covered by CLÁR to over one million for the first time. This expansion includes four additional EDs in Carlow and six additional EDs in Kilkenny,
As part of the estimates process, I secured an additional €1 million for CLAR in 2026 to increase the overall annual allocation from €11 million to €12 million. I look forward to approving the successful projects in both new and old CLÁR areas before the end of the year,
