Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 May 2026
104. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he intends to seek increased funding for rural development programmes in Budget 2027, in light of concerns expressed by rural communities and organisations regarding reductions in rural development funding in recent budgets. [38388/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department manages funding allocations across three programme areas, Rural Development, Community Development, and the Gaeltacht and the Islands Programmes.
For 2026 my Department's overall budget allocation is €613 million, with €273 million in capital funding and €340 million in current funding. This represents a 7% increase on the 2025 allocation and builds on strong investment over the last number of years.
Funding provision for the Rural Development Programme has increased significantly in recent years. In 2017, when the Department was established, the allocation for rural development was €80 million whereas for 2026 it is almost €193 million. This increased level of investment is having a positive impact right across the country.
The 2026 allocation for rural development of €193 million reflects the fact that the current LEADER programme is at an early stage. Therefore, the provision for the LEADER programme is reduced from €42 million in 2025 to €32 million in 2026. This allocation is based on the level of claims expected from Local Action Groups over the year. It is important to note that the full €250 million allocation for the LEADER 2021 to 2027 programme will be provided over the programme period, with funding ramped up as demand increases.
As noted at the outset, the Department’s allocation has increased by 7% for 2026. Funding increases were provided for a number of rural schemes, and funding increases for community schemes such as the Community Centre Investment Fund and the Community Services Programme, will benefit both rural and urban communities.
Finally, my officials will shortly commence engagement with Department of Public Expenditure officials as part of the annual estimates process, and I will be detailing my priorities in bilateral engagements as that process develops.
