Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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30. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if she will approve funding for the continuation of the RosFM community radio station under the community services programme given that management was informed that if it successfully reached targets for 2015, funding would be assured; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5138/16]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The community services programme (CSP) is one of a number of programmes and schemes operated by the Department. It provides financial support to community companies that provide revenue generating services of a social inclusion nature. A core requirement of the programme is that service providers generate non‐public revenue from their operations by charging fees for services delivered or by way of fundraising. Companies in contract with the programme must be not‐for‐profit, social enterprise or community business in nature. The services provided are wide ranging and include facilities and activities for older people and those with disabilities, rural transport, community media, childcare, leisure facilities, home insulation and environmental projects. The programme is funded by the Department with day-to-day management of contracts undertaken by Pobal.

The company referred to by the Deputy had a contract from 01/01/2011 until 31/12/2013 under the CSP. Since then this contract has been subject to a number of reviews, extensions and appeals. In December 2015, the company were advised that the grant agreement under the CSP would not be extended beyond 31/03/2016. The reason for this decision is due to the sustainability, financial viability and poor value for money issues that were identified not being addressed. As a result, the company are due to exit the CSP at the end of March 2016. However, it has been agreed that this date will be extended by a further two months to enable the company to plan appropriately to exit the programme.