Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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409. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the application process and deadlines for a scheme (details supplied); the persons and bodies eligible to apply; the process involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39974/16]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The programme referred to by the Deputy is a targeted investment programme which provides funding for small scale infrastructural projects in rural areas which have suffered the greatest levels of population decline.

I launched the 2016 programme on 6 October 2016, with a focus on three separate measures: Safety Measures for Schools and Community/Sports Facilities, Playgrounds and Multi-Use Games Areas, and Local Access Roads. All Local Authorities which have designated programme areas were invited to apply; this includes all counties except Dublin, Wexford and Kildare. The closing date for receipt of applications was 4 November 2016.

On 1 December, I announced the allocation of €8.24 million to 651 successful projects under the programme. The programme for 2016 is now closed. However, I have secured an allocation of €5 million for the programme for 2017. Decisions regarding the particular measures to be implemented through the programme in 2017 will be taken in the New Year.