Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2026
25. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to provide an update on the progress of the town centre first initiative in Galway East; his plans to support regeneration in towns and villages across County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52952/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Town Centre First (or the TCF) Policy, is a major government policy initiative that supports the regeneration of Irish towns to ensure that they are vibrant, viable and attractive places to live, work, visit and invest in.
Significant progress has been made since the launch of the policy.
For example, under TCF funding is provided by my department to local authorities, including Galway County Council, to employ dedicated Town Regeneration Officers. These Officers are a key link between the local authority, towns and villages and their communities. They also work closely across multi-disciplinary regeneration teams in local authorities, such as Capital Delivery Teams, also funded by my department.
Dedicated TCF support funding of over €7m has also been provided by my Department. This has included funding for the development of 52 TCF Town Plans nationally, including in Gort and Athenry. The funding also helped establish Town Teams nationwide, including in Headford, An Cheathrú Rua, and Oranmore. These initiatives aim to support local communities in identifying and addressing the key issues in their own towns and communities.
A range of capital funding streams is available across my department to support delivery on TCF objectives. The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund has allocated over €35 million to 19 projects across County Galway. Similarly, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme has awarded €8.5 million to 81 projects in County Galway.
My department will continue to work closely with colleagues such as local authorities and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to deliver on the goal of revitalising our rural towns and villages.
