John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This issue follows on from my previous question. The funding this year is substantially less than it was last year. As the RAPID programme is no longer in operation, there is a particular need for the most disadvantaged communities to receive continuous long-term support. They need to know on a year-to-year basis that programmes will be supported. Although the allocation of €13 million last year was very welcome and I have looked at projects funded under it, the most disadvantaged areas are not receiving the required level of support. Will the Minister review the community enhancement programme in light of the fact that it has replaced the RAPID programme, which targeted funding at the most disadvantaged areas? I previously raised my concern that the most disadvantaged communities are not being engaged and receiving funding on the ground. I welcome the funding for men's sheds and other programmes but I am concerned that it is at the expense of the most disadvantaged communities. While I acknowledge that savings were made last year, the fund this year is substantially less than the outturn last year.

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