Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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310. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the total capital allocation she has for works to be carried out on the offshore islands this year by county councils, exclusive of major island pier developments; the value of the submissions she recently received from county councils; when she will make a decision on the allocations for 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9371/23]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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311. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development when it is intended to approve the minor works programme for roads, piers, and so on, for islands this year, given that it will be absolutely necessary that an urgent decision be made on this if the money provided is to be spent in this calendar year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9382/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 310 and 311 together.

It is an objective of this Government to provide the necessary supports for our off-shore islands so that those communities can continue to live, and thrive, on the islands.

As the Deputy is aware, my Department operates an annual capital funding programme to enable the relevant local authorities to carry out minor capital works on the offshore islands and develop key infrastructure such as piers on the islands and mainland to support the sustainability of our island communities.

Last year, I secured a significant increase in the capital allocation for the islands to €4.644 million and I am delighted that I have secured the same amount again in 2023.

The closing date for submissions from Local Authorities for inclusion in this year's capital programme was last Wednesday, 15 February 2023.I understand that the value of submissions received from Local Authorities this year is almost equivalent to the total allocation, however my Department is still awaiting clarifications on a submission from one Local Authority.

It is also important to note all projects submitted for consideration will have to assessed by my Department before they are sent to me for consideration and approval.

I am conscious of the importance of providing sufficient notice of approval to local authorities in order to allow them plan and carry out the works, given the added logistical considerations associated with island works. On that basis, I hope to be in a position to approve the funding for these works as soon as possible.