Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The CLÁR programme is the most important scheme for rural Ireland. I welcome that the Minister of State re-opened the scheme last year. It was the first time since 2009 that the scheme was available. Last year County Clare received €284,000 for 27 projects for rural areas that have suffered from significant depopulation. The scheme provides community groups and schools with an opportunity to apply for funding under different headings.

I welcome that the Minister of State has broadened the scheme to include applications from voluntary first responder organisations throughout the country and community-based projects that do not qualify for other streams of funding, and is demonstrating an element of flexibility in the scheme. I encourage all community groups and schools in CLÁR areas to apply for the scheme. I ask the Minister of State to clarify the applications process. When will he be in a position to make an announcement as regards successful applicants?

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