Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 May 2026
122. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will provide an update on the work being carried out by his Department to ensure the viability of community centres and community and voluntary organisations in County Louth, through the provision of capital and non-capital funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38263/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department recognises the vital role played by community centres and community and voluntary organisations in supporting community development and social inclusion initiatives throughout County Louth, and across the country.
Through a range of capital and current funding programmes, my Department continues to support the sustainability and long-term viability of these organisations and facilities.
Under the Community Centre Investment Fund, significant support has been provided for the upgrade and refurbishment of community centres, including works relating to energy efficiency, accessibility, maintenance and essential improvements. Community and voluntary organisations in County Louth have benefited from funding under this scheme in recent years.
In addition, the Community Recognition Fund has supported community organisations and facilities in areas that have welcomed new arrivals to their communities. Funding has also been made available through programmes such as the Local Enhancement Programme, which provides small-scale grants to community and voluntary groups to assist with facility improvements and equipment purchases
My Department also supports the community and voluntary sector through the Community Services Programme (CSP), the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), CLÁR, LEADER, supports for Local Development Companies, and supports for Public Participation Networks, all of which contribute to strengthening community infrastructure and capacity in County Louth.
The administration of many of these schemes is carried out in partnership with Louth County Council and Local Community Development Committees to ensure supports are targeted at local priorities and community needs.
Details of the thousands of funding allocations my Department has provided each year, across the country, including County Louth, are available on my Department’s website, in tabular form at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-rural-and-community-development-and-the-gaeltacht/collections/funding-allocated-by-the-department/
