Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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338. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her views on a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21452/17]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The 2017 CLÁR programme was launched on 31 March 2017 and will provide funding for small scale infrastructural projects in disadvantaged rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population. The allocation for CLÁR for 2017 is €5 million and funding is available under the following measures:

Measure 1: Support for Schools/Community Safety Measures

Measure 2: Play Areas

Measure 3: Targeted Community Infrastructure Needs

Measure 4: First Response Support Measure

Applications under Measures 1, 2 and 3 were to be submitted through the Local Authorities and each Local Authority based in a CLÁR area received notification of the scheme on 31 March. Measure 4 is targeted at voluntary organisations involved in emergency rescue or first response efforts.

The CLÁR scheme requires all projects under Measures 1, 2 and 3 to be based on applications made by community groups or schools; however, it was a matter for each Local Authority to determine how it wished to publicise the scheme. Any applications that are submitted to my Department for assessment that are not supported by an application from a relevant community group/school will not be approved for funding.

The closing date for applications under the 2017 CLÁR programme was Friday, 5 May 2017. I expect to be in a position to announce the successful applicants under the programme by the end of May and details of the successful applicants will be available on my Department’s website.

I see no reason why all applications made to the Local Authorities under Clár should not appear on the Local Authority websites also.