Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

Like Deputy Wall, I have been familiar with the CDPs for a long time. As the Deputy is aware, a review of the CDPs was carried out some time back. The majority of community development projects were found to be performing an excellent function and providing a wide range of programmes. A small number were found to be performing below the expectations required. An appeals process was put in place. Several of these projects were appealed and were successful. A small number were not successful and offers have been made to these to ensure there is an orderly wind down of the activities and that support is provided to the CDP company directors to discharge their responsibilities as company directors and to ensure that whatever assistance possible within reason is provided to protect all those involved. I refer to how they will develop from here and the local development structures. It is fair to say there are several areas throughout the country where there are difficulties. It has been put in writing and elsewhere by my officials that where a better proposal is deemed available at local level, it will be examined by the officials in my Department and myself.

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