Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

600. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding CLÁR funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42024/18]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

CLÁR provides funding for small scale capital projects in specified rural areas that have experienced significant levels of depopulation.

As part of the 2018 CLÁR programme, I allocated €1.5 million to a Mobility and Cancer Care Transport Measure to support the purchase of vehicles by voluntary organisations in CLÁR areas that provide transport services to people for cancer treatment and for persons with significant mobility issues in order to enable them to access support. It provided up to 85% of the total cost of a vehicle/fit out up to a maximum of €50,000 for a wheelchair accessible vehicle or €100,000 for a bus.

The closing date for applications from qualifying voluntary organisations was 31st August. In the normal course, CLÁR eligibility is based on facilities being physically located within a designated CLÁR DED. Given the need to travel considerable distances, in some cases, to hospitals and other specialist facilities located in non CLÁR areas, eligibility in this instance was based on the 'catchment area' being served by the vehicles i.e., that at least 80% of the vehicle's need is attributable to CLÁR areas.

I intend carrying out a full review of qualifying CLÁR areas later this year on the basis of the 2016 Census data. The level of depopulation will continue to be a primary factor in the designation of any area as a CLÁR area. The review will involve a detailed examination of all areas of the country, as well as stakeholder consultation.

The findings of the review will inform future launches of the CLÁR programme into 2019 and beyond.