Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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686. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development further to Parliamentary Question No. 362 of 23 November 2023, in respect of the drawdown of a grant for a project in Kerry, the outcome of discussions by her officials with the local authority regarding efforts and timelines to complete this process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2711/24]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The Community Recognition Fund recognises the huge efforts made by communities going to great lengths in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland.

Funding of €50 million for over 880 projects is supporting the development of facilities that will be used in the future by all members of the community. It is important to note that this is separate from other public funding streams which aim to support the development of public service needs arising from the significant number of new arrivals into Ireland.

Through this initiative, communities are being assisted to develop projects such as large-scale multi-purpose sports facilities, walkways, cycle paths, playgrounds, equipment for sports clubs and community festivals. Vehicles have also been funded to address transport needs in communities.

The delivery of this funding is being managed at a local level by each individual local authority. My officials liaised with Kerry County Council in respect of the project referred to by the Deputy and they have been assured that the local authority is engaging with representatives of the project.

I understand that the community committee delivering this project are currently preparing a planning application for consideration by the local authority. Kerry County Council have advised that this project will be delivered by Q3 2024.