Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 154: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position in relation to the dormant account funding for 2009; the number of applications received for such funding; the number of applications received for such funding in 2008; the funding allocated but not drawn down in 2008; the position of such applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12674/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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Funding is provided from the Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF), through the votes of relevant Departments, to tackle disadvantage and to assist persons with a disability. Details in respect of the number of applications are set out in my reply to question number 55 answered on 4th March 2009. Since early 2006, all projects have been approved by the Government and managed by the Government Department with responsibility for the areas assisted.

In 2006, 2007 and 2008, my Department has managed an annual measure to support priority projects in RAPID areas valued at €7.5 million per annum; in 2006 my Department managed measures to provide recreation and personal development opportunities for disadvantaged young people valued at €1.12 million and €3.95 million to fund two projects under the Flagships Measure. In 2008, €2m was provided for a substance misuse measure. Details in respect of funding yet to be drawn down by projects is set out below:

There are a number of reasons why groups do not draw down the funding they have been granted. For example, some groups may decide that the project is no longer necessary, viable or a priority for them. Others experience capacity issues in relation to their ability to implement the project. Issues also arise in relation to compliance with public procurement rules, planning permission and access to additional funding to complete the project or to meet other undertakings. All projects are kept under review and where appropriate, offered support. Where it is agreed that a project will not proceed or draw down the full amount of funds approved, procedures, including consultation with the project promoters, are in place to decomit the funding approved.

With respect to 2009, I have no proposals to make any further allocations to specific measures until information is available on the value of funds liable to transfer from financial institutions later this year. Details of the individual grants and organisations that have been approved for support from the Fund are available on the Department's website, www.pobail.ie.