Naoise Ó Muirí (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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119. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development for an update on the allocation of funding for the local enhancement programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14380/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2025 was announced in November 2024, with funding of €7 million to assist thousands of community groups across the country by providing capital and current supports. The LEP is targeted to the specific challenges facing local community groups and delivers immediate, tangible supports where they are needed most.

Under the Local Enhancement Programme 2025 there was €6 million capital funding available to support community and voluntary groups, particularly in disadvantaged areas, with minor capital works and improvements to their facilities, and the purchase of equipment for community use.

This year, the fund also included €1 million in current funding to provide support and assistance to community and voluntary groups towards their utility bills, rental/lease costs, insurance costs etc.

The Local Enhancement Programme is administered locally on behalf of my Department 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.

The Local Enhancement Programme 2025 is now closed to applicants. My officials are currently awaiting the lists of approved projects under the LEP 2025 to be submitted by the LCDCs. Details of the successful projects will be announced on a county by county basis and will be available on my Department's website.