Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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2036. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development further to a statement by An Taoiseach in November 2021 (details supplied), if she will provide an update on proposed actions arising from this work; and her plans to have such actions implemented. [63047/21]

Joe O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Green Party)
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My Department supports Local Development Companies (sometimes referred to as 'area partnerships') via SICAPor the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme. 

SICAPaims to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion and equality by supporting communities and individuals using community development approaches, engagement and collaboration.  SICAPactions are delivered by 46 local development companies nationwide. 

My Department secured a €4 million increase for SICAP for 2022 bringing the budget to €43m.  The increase will allow for the creation of a number of posts within area partnerships/local development companies for new community workers on the ground in communities across Ireland. 

Funding for Drugs Task Forces is a matter for the Department of Health.