Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party)
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33. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the position regarding the new fund for community centres; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4906/22]

Joe O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Green Party)
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A new capital fund for the upgrade of community centres was referenced in the National Development Plan and an indicative budget of €5m has been secured for this under Budget 2022. 

It is envisaged that the capital fund will support the upgrade and refurbishment of existing community buildings in urban and rural areas.

The fund could provide for:

- Energy retrofitting - projects that reduce an organisation's carbon footprint. 

- Works to address safety concerns, including as a result of fire safety audits.

- Works to improve disability access.

- Works to improve communal facilities such as kitchen and toilet facilities.

The details of this capital scheme are currently being developed within my Department. It will be launched in Q1 2022, with further details being announced in due course.