Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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847. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will review the application process under CLÁR to provide different measures under the current scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29770/24]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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My Department's CLÁR scheme is a targeted investment programme that provides funding for small scale infrastructural projects in rural areas that experience disadvantage and significant levels of de-population.

The 2024 CLÁR programme was launched on the 12th April last. There are three separate measures being funded this year. The application deadline has now passed in respect of all 3 measures.

Measure 1 of the scheme will fund the development of community facilities and amenities. This is a very broad measure designed to facilitate the varying needs of each CLAR area and includes interventions such as community gardens, astro turf facilities or the upgrade of the local youth centre.

Measure 2 covers the purchase and fit out of vehicles for voluntary groups providing transport for people with mobility issues, transport for cancer care, first responders and meals on wheels.

Measure 3 was put in place to provide opportunities directly for projects located on the islands in line with my Department’s Islands policy. This provides funding for community amenities and community based transport projects.

I review the focus of the scheme and the measures to be included in advance of the launch of the CLÁR programme each year. Adjustments are made to the scheme and application process as appropriate. For example, this year support for meals in wheels services was included under Measure 2 of the scheme. I can assure the Deputy that I will again review the focus of the CLÁR programme in advance of the next iteration of the scheme.