Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2026
931. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the capital funding streams available to communities seeking to promote Irish language as a community language, both at European and domestic levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47253/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware my Department administers a number of capital schemes which contribute to the promotion of the Irish Language. Details of these schemes can be found below:
Support Schemes for the development of Irish language and cultural centres outside the Gaeltacht: The purpose of the capital assistance provided under this scheme is to strengthen the Irish language as a community and family language in line with the objectives of the 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030. This fund is aimed at constructing and renovating buildings for use as Irish language centres and funding is also available to purchase equipment for such centres.Applications are accepted from community-based organisations and funding of up to 95% of eligible costs may be awarded depending on the case. Capital costs as well as professional costs (i.e. engineering/architectural advice) may be included for grant purposes.
An Clár Tacaíochtaí Pobail agus Teanga (Community and Language Supports Programme): The primary objective of An Clár Tacaíochtaí Pobail agus Teanga (Community and Language Supports Programme) is to support communities in Gaeltacht areas to develop community facilities in their areas as well as providing an additional support for the language planning process and the overall implementation of the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030.
LEADER Programme: The current LEADER programme which is co-funded by my Department and the EU covers the period from 2023 to 2027. It provides support to rural communities under a broad range of themes and has for many years supported community groups and local businesses to deliver local-led projects that promote Irish culture and heritage. Prospective applicants that are located in an eligible LEADER area should, in the first instance, contact their Local Action Group through its Implementing Partner to discuss the eligibility of the project and the funding that may be available. Contact details are available on Gov.ie/LEADER.
My Department also has a wide range of capital schemes, which are available to all communities including those seeking to promote Irish as a community language, such as CLÁR, the Community Centre Investment Fund, Local Enhancement Programme, Local Improvement Scheme, Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Fund and the Towns & Villages Renewal Scheme, details of which can be found on the Departments website.
