Barry Cowen (Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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237. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of the €1 million allocated to the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme as outlined in budget 2018; the amount that has been spent; the way in which the money has been spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27256/18]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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I assume the Deputy is referring to the additional €1 million allocated to Social Inclusion/Regional Development Supports in budget 2018. This subhead primarily provides funding to the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP).

SICAP is delivered locally, under the oversight of Local Community Development Committees, by contracted Programme Implementers who work to improve the life chances of those who are marginalised in society, living in poverty or unemployed.  The additional €1 million allowed an increase of some €0.5 million in the SICAP funding allocation for 2018.  Spend under the SICAP 2018 to date is €27,968,550.

The remainder of the additional €1 million allowed an increase of some €0.5 million for funding outside of the SICAP for some groups who operate in disadvantaged areas or with disadvantaged people.  This includes a number of co-funded projects with Dublin City Council such as the Dublin Inner City Co-operative and the Cherry Orchard Equine Centre. The 2018 spend to date is €449,653.