Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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517. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if RAPID or SICAP grants are suitable for funding a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27375/18]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The RAPID programme has been replaced by the Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) which I launched last month. The Community Facilities Scheme (CFS) has also been amalgamated into the CEP. The new programme provides funding to enhance facilities for disadvantaged communities. If the school in question is developing facilities for use by the entire community, it may be eligible for funding under this programme.

I have provided funding under this programme to each Local Authority area, taking into account levels of disadvantage and population in each area. Westmeath will receive €136,571, which is an increase on their 2017 combined RAPID and CFS allocation. An application can be made to the Westmeath Local Community Development Committee (LCDC). Decisions regarding funding allocations will be made by the LCDC.

The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) does not provide grant assistance for the works described.