Joe O'Brien (Dublin Fingal, Green Party)
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Last December, I was delighted to launch the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) which replaces my Department’s Community Enhancement Programme, with capital funding of €6 million to assist thousands of community groups across the country. A key feature of the Local Enhancement Programme is that it is targeted to the specific challenges facing local community groups and delivers immediate, tangible supports where they are needed most.

In general, support under the Local Enhancement Programme is available to, for example, Parish Halls, Community Centres, Local Development Associations, Social Clubs, Senior Citizen Groups, Men’s and Women’s Sheds and Community Youth Groups. The Local Enhancement Programme will provide capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.

The Local Enhancement Programme is administered on behalf of my Department locally by Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) across the country, with support from their Local Authority. The relevant LCDC receive and appraise applications, making determinations on how the funding can best support their communities. I would encourage all groups including youth and teen groups and sheds to engage with their LCDC directly for details on how to apply.

Direct supports for Children and Youth Services falls under the remit of the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. My Department has no role in establishing groups or national networks.