Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I launched the new RAPID, revitalising areas by planning, investment and development, programme in November 2017. The programme provides support for groups which are tackling social exclusion and is aimed at improving quality of life for residents in disadvantaged urban areas and provincial towns across the country.

Under the new programme, funding has been provided on an equal basis for each local authority area. The local community development committees, LCDCs, in conjunction with municipal districts, are responsible for allocating funding to individual projects at local level.

Officials of my Department are carrying out a review of the RADID programme prior to a new launch planned for May. The focus is on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the programme. Feedback has been requested from the LCDCs on specific issues, including whether the scheme should be amalgamated with the communities facilities scheme and whether there should be any change in how funding is allocated to local authority areas.

I expect to receive a report on the review, together with recommendations for proposed changes, by the end of April.

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