Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 309: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the qualifying criteria for the village grant scheme; the procedure for applying; the work which can be carried out; the budget set aside for the scheme; the length of time it is intended that the scheme will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9785/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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I presume the Deputy is referring to the Village Renewal and Development measure of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013. As the Deputy may be aware, I have recently signed contracts with Local Action Groups to deliver the LEADER elements of the Programme. The total funding available under the programme is approximately €425m, some three times the amount available under the previous LEADER programming round. In accordance with the EU regulations governing the Programme, this funding is available for commitment to projects up to 31st December 2013.

In accordance with the bottom-up approach to rural development, Local Action Groups are the decision-making authorities in relation to approving actions falling within their business plans. The approval of grants by Groups is made in accordance with the provisions of the relevant EU Regulations and Programme Operating Rules. In this context, project promoters seeking grant assistance under the Programme should contact the relevant Local Action Group.

The Village Renewal and Development measure has an allocation of approximately €54m and the following activities are eligible for funding:

Environmental upgrading, e.g. parks, civic areas, river walks, &c.;

Access facilities to amenities;

Public utilities such as street lighting;

General small-scale surface upgrading and renovation of derelict buildings;

Farmers Markets, and

Other small-scale actions.