Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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A vital part of my Department's mission is to support vibrant and sustainable communities across this country. While funding for arts and culture is primarily the responsibility of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media, I am happy to confirm that there are competitive funding streams provided by my Department which could contribute to supporting the establishment of local arts centres, details of which are set out below.

The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) provides funding for the development and construction of capital projects in towns, villages and rural areas across Ireland. The aim is to drive economic growth, combat dereliction and breathe new life into town centres. There is a strong focus on converting old buildings into remote working hubs, libraries, e-learning, cultural, enterprise, youth and community spaces. For example, funding was approved for projects in Macroom, Co. Cork in 2019 for the restoration and upgrade of the Briery Gap Theatre and Library.

In 2022 funding was allocated for a number of interventions including the refurbishment of the vacant St. Colman’s Church in Macroom as an arts, community, cultural and heritage facility. Also in 2022, funding was approved for a project in Charleville, Co. Cork that includes the repurposing of vacant historic buildings to be used as an Arts and Community Centre.

Additionally, Bandon Town Centre Renewal and Regeneration Project was approved for RRDF funding of €5.5 million in 2022. This is an ambitious town centre focused regeneration project that includes the conversion of a vacant building into a community space, the transformation of the old town library into an e-hub remote working facility, the provision of new public spaces and major public realm works that will support active travel.

The RRDF fifth call for Category 1 applications closed on 8 February 2024, and applications are currently being assessed.

Support under the LEADER 2023-2027 programme may be provided under the themes of Economic Development and Job Creation, Rural Infrastructure and Social Inclusion, Sustainable Development of the Rural Environment and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation and funding for local arts centres may be available under these themes.

Prospective applicants should, in the first instance, contact their relevant LAG, through its Implementing Partner, to discuss the eligibility of the project and the funding that may be available. Contact details for all LAGs are available on my Department’s website at www.gov.ie.

The Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) is one of a number of measures designed to rejuvenate rural towns and villages throughout Ireland. The current scheme is designed to support the revitalisation of rural Ireland through a renewed focus on town centre regeneration and enhancing economic and social vibrancy in line with the Town Centre First policy. This can be achieved through the purchase and/or renovation of derelict and vacant buildings being brought back into use as multi-purpose spaces, which includes use by the arts.

The 2023 TVRS closed for applications on 10 November 2023, and the assessment process is now being finalised by my Department. I expect to be in a position to announce the successful applications shortly. In line with the recently published calendar of schemes by my Department, the 2024 TVRS will open to applications in October 2024.

I would also note that a second round of funding under the Community Recognition Fund has recently been announced, and this could also provide an appropriate funding avenue depending on demands and priorities in the broader local authority area.

Up to date information on all schemes operated by my Department is provided on the Department's website at: www.gov.ie/en/service/c5849b-rural-funding/