Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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431. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if the provision of office or workspace is eligible for assistance under the town and village renewal scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53706/19]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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The Town and Village Renewal Scheme is a key initiative under the Action Plan for Rural Development and is part of a range of measures to support the revitalisation of rural Ireland under the Government's Project Ireland 2040 Rural Regeneration and Development Programme.

A wide range of activities are supported through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, including the repurposing of existing buildings in town or village centres to support job creation and/or other community use.  Applications to the scheme are made to my Department through the Local Authorities, following their consultation with local communities.  Supports are not available to private investors under the scheme.

Over 830 projects have received funding of €68 million under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme since it commenced in 2016.  I intend to launch a further call for proposals under the scheme again next year.  Details of the application process and the closing date for receipt of applications will be announced when the scheme is launched.