Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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242. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will address a matter (details supplied) regarding funding of local improvement schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28610/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The focus of the Local Improvement Scheme is to support the continued improvement of rural roads and laneways that are not normally maintained by local authorities but which represent a vital piece of infrastructure for rural residents. The scheme is funded by my Department and is administered through the Local Authorities.

In any given year, the demand under the scheme exceeds the funding availabile. It is a matter for each Local Authority to prioritise roads for inclusion under the scheme.

As part of “Our Rural Future”, the Government committed to ensuring that the Local Improvement Scheme is funded into the future. I launched the 2021 Local Improvement Scheme on May 14^thwith funding of €10.5 million. This represents a 5% increase in funding compared to last year. The funding will improve access to rural homes and farms, as well as outdoor amenities such as lakes, rivers, mountains and beaches.

Over €68 million has now been invested under the Local Improvement Scheme since it was re-introduced in 2017. Close to 2,400 roads have been funded for repair works. This has made a real difference to the lives of over 10,000 landowners and residents in rural Ireland.

As I noted when I launched the 2021 Local Improvement Scheme, I am working to identify if additional funding can be provided for the Scheme in 2021 as it is clear that there is a continuing demand for this funding in rural communities across Ireland.

Finally, in relation to specific aspects of Scéim na mBóithre Áise, or Gaeltacht Accommodation Roads scheme, the Deputy may wish to contact the the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media for further details.