Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Revised Estimates for 2018 in respect of the Department of Rural and Community Development sets out gross capital expenditure of €87.5 million and the current expenditure of €144 million for the Department. The capital expenditure is supplemented by some €7.7 million capital carried forward from 2017.

As of 5 November, €54.8 million of my Department’s capital allocation has been spent and €124.7 million in current expenditure has been spent. There remains €40.4 million in capital expenditure and €19.3 million in current expenditure to be utilised before the end of the year.

My Department is working in partnership with key stakeholders to fully utilise the available resources. Local authorities, community and voluntary groups, as well as dedicated agencies have key roles to play in supporting job creation and attracting investment across rural Ireland and supporting the development of communities throughout Ireland. Close monitoring of expenditure is a matter of significant priority so as to ensure full use of our allocated resources, and that value for money is delivered in respect of our funding. I have already identified areas where some capital programmes are unlikely to spend their full allocation this year. For example, while LEADER activity is ramping up and a healthy pipeline of projects have been approved, the programme will not require its full allocation this year.

I have been proactive in reallocating capital resources where possible. For example, I have already expanded the community enhancement programme this year, increased investment in libraries, and provided additional support to fund the local improvement schemes. I have also supported the development of Coillte trails, Tidy Towns, agricultural shows and Men’s Sheds organisations. By ensuring claims are made, continued close monitoring of expenditure and, if necessary, further reallocation of resources, I will ensure the resources made available to my Department will be fully utilised, delivering for all communities and for rural Ireland.

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