Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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1277. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the way in which a group (details supplied) receives feedback on its unsuccessful application for community service programme funding; the way in which the scheme is administered; the criteria met; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47040/17]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware, the Community Services Programme (CSP) provides financial support to community companies that provide revenue generating services of a socially inclusive nature. The CSP works on a social-enterprise model which means that it does not fully fund contract holders but requires that they generate revenue by charging fees or raising funds. All CSP recipients are obliged to meet these criteria. These social enterprises also remain responsible for their own budgets and financial liabilities.

The programme is managed on behalf of my Department by Pobal, which has a proven track record in the administration of public funds and extensive experience in assessing funding applications and business plans.

The organisation referred to by the Deputy submitted a business plan for CSP funding and this was appraised by Pobal. A decision email was sent to the organisation on October 31^ststating that the business plan was not of the required standard to be approved for CSP funding. Specifically, the email informed the organisation that the business plan:

-Did not demonstrate how the service being proposed will alleviate social or economic disadvantage;

-Sought funding for roles that are not evidently income generating;

-Did not clearly explain financial projections; and

-Contained a weak reserves plan.

However, it is acknowledged that, with further work, the service could potentially be supported under the programme. Therefore, my Department has agreed to give the organisation an opportunity to submit a revised business plan.

I would urge the organisation concerned to work closely with their local Pobal representatives on the submission of a revised business plan which addresses the weaknesses in the original plan.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.