Sorca Clarke (Longford-Westmeath, Sinn Fein)
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16. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the roll-out of the just transition fund for Lanesboro and the wider area (details supplied). [62064/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Government is committed to a just transition in the Midlands region and has dedicated significant funding to supporting workers, companies and communities affected by the closure of the peat-fired power stations and the end of peat harvesting by Bord na Móna. To date 51 National Just Transition Fund projects have finalised grant agreements with my Department and are delivering their projects. The total value of projects in delivery is approximately €24 million, with €17.3 million in grant funding. Funded projects are diverse and cover a range of opportunities throughout the region including: new enterprise hubs, supporting local business development, research and exploratory studies, tourism and heritage projects, and opportunities for reskilling. Further details of these projects can be found at www.gov.ie/en/publication/ed10d-just-transition-fund/ .

The Government has already committed significant resources to supporting the region through this transition and will continue its programme of investment in the region over the coming years. Our key focus has been to support communities through the transition by the creation of new enterprise and employment opportunities so that the region remains vibrant and innovative, and makes the most of the opportunities that decarbonisation will bring.