Written answers

Thursday, 21 July 2016

Department of Social Protection

Community Services Programme

Photo of Robert TroyRobert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

372. To ask the Minister for Social Protection if he will provide a worker under the community services programme following a deputation regarding a group (details supplied). [24222/16]

Photo of Leo VaradkarLeo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The community services programme (CSP) is designed to address gaps in the delivery of key local services, to tackle disadvantage and to ensure that community facilities are utilised. It provides valuable resourcing for service delivery undertaken by not-for-profit companies and co-operatives in communities around the country. There are some 3,000 people in full and part-time posts which are supported in employment by the programme across approximately 400 not-for-profit companies. Funding of just over €45m has been provided for the programme in 2016 which will maintain the current level of activity.

Service providers must operate community or social enterprises that deliver tangible services and are capable of generating non-public revenues from their operations by way of charging fees, sales and/or fundraising. The programme is not intended to represent full funding for any operation.

Given the level of resources available and the number of companies currently supported, the Department has been unable to make an open call for new proposals to the programme for a number of years. However, from time to time as resources allow, the Department does process new applications received from organisations that have expressed an interest in and are considered eligible under the programme.

This group recently met with the Department to discuss an expression of interest in relation to funding for Dun Na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park under the CSP. The review of all current expressions of interest is almost completed an outcome is expected in August. Further information will be available when this process is completed and a decision has been reached.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.