Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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90. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment why projects approved under the Just Transition Fund cannot qualify for an increase under building inflation costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41853/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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I refer to the reply to Question No 124 of 15June 2023.

As set out in my reply to that question, my Department continues to engage constructively with projects participating in the National Just Transition Fund.The Government is committed to a just transition in the Midlands region and has dedicated significant funding to supporting workers, enterprises and communities affected by the closure of the peat-fired power stations and the end of peat harvesting by Bord na Móna.

My Department continues to support 56projects in the Midlands region through the National Just Transition Fund.The Fund will provide up to €22.1 million in grant funding over the lifetime of these projects, which will mobilise an estimated €15 million in additional funding to the region. To date, €6.5 million has been disbursedto participating projects.

The Department maintains ongoing contact with grantees, to offer support in addressing any challenges in delivering the projects. These engagements have offered each project an opportunity to discuss any challenges they have identified, and to explore potential solutions within the parameters set down in individual grant agreements. My officials are continuing to prioritise direct contact with projects who have identified various challenges with a view to supporting projects in their delivery.

The Deputy will also wish to be aware that the EU Just Transition Fund Programme, formally launched in April of this year, will provide opportunities for further investment in the region. An overall Programme funding envelope of up to €169 million until 2027 will prioritise investments in the following areas:

1. Generating employment for former peat communities by investing in the diversification of the local economy by supporting productive investments in enterprise, SMEs and community actions.
2. Supporting the restoration and rehabilitation of degraded peatlands and the regeneration and repurposing of industrial heritage assets.
3. Providing former peat communities with smart and sustainable mobility options to enable them to benefit directly from the green transition.