Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I think all of Deputy Smyth's questions have been answered. I have a number of questions for the witnesses. I thank Ms Rooney for her comprehensive presentation and for engaging with the committee. This fund is critical and is a game changer for many communities. County Clare has benefited greatly, with the Ennistymon digital hub due to open soon. This follows on from the development of the Spiddal digital hub, which is very welcome. I am interested in the issue of LEADER companies being lead applicants. In County Clare, the LEADER there company was unsuccessful over the last two calls even though its applications were backed up by a philanthropic organisation called Tomar Trust, which pledged €300,000 for each individual application. Tomar Trust will only fund projects that are also funded by the State. There was considerable disappointment when these excellent projects were not funded. This situation begs a wider question on the number of applications nationwide from LEADER companies. Ms Rooney has told us that 70% of applications were led by local authorities. Why is it the case that LEADER companies are not as successful in their applications? Surely serious consideration must be given to applications that are backed up by a philanthropic organisation like Tomar Trust, which is working in counties Clare, Waterford and Cork. How much consideration is given to such applications?

I cannot overemphasise the importance of this scheme. I think of Seaworld in Lahinch in County Clare, which opened when preparations for the Irish Open were under way. The public realm in Lahinch enjoyed a significant upgrade to coincide with that massive sporting event. Work is also ongoing in Seaworld itself, with the upgrading of facilities and the provision of a surf rescue training centre. The effect on the village of Lahinch has been massive. This fund enables communities to think big. As Ms Rooney pointed out, the minimum award is €500,000 but there is no cap.

This is a new fund and as Ms Rooney explained to Senator Marshall earlier, some of the projects that were unsuccessful on the first call were funded on the second call. The fund provides enormous opportunities for communities. Again, I thank Ms Rooney for coming before us today. Deputy Michael Collins is next.