James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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462. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he will outline his plans for future funding for community centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23115/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The development and enhancement of community centres and facilities across the country is a priority for me and this Government. For the information of the Deputy, full details of range of the supports available within my Department, including those for community centres, can be accessed at

In relation to the funding of community centres in particular, an integrated approach across a range of my Department’s schemes is in place as follows.

The Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF) has provided in excess of €109 million in capital funding since 2022 for the enhancement and refurbishment of existing community centres and the construction of new centres. Over €33 million has now been approved for in excess of 770 projects under the 2024 fund. The application window for CCIF 2024 has now closed, and a decision in respect of the next round of the fund will be made later in the year, in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government for this to become a permanent rolling fund.

The Community Recognition Fund (CRF) was introduced in 2023 to recognise efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland. To date €100 million has been allocated to support communities across the country and has included funding for projects related to community centres. Similarly, the CLÁR programme provides funding for small-scale projects in designated rural areas, including funding for community centre projects. Measure 1 of the programme (Developing Community Facilities and Amenities) was launched on 4 April 2025, with a closing date for returns by local authorities to my Department of 13 June. As this measure is administered by the local authorities, potential applicants are encouraged to check their local authority’s website for specific details on closing dates locally for submission of applications.

The current LEADER Programme runs to 2027 and is now up and running across the country. It supports a broad range of enterprises and community groups to develop projects which improve the quality of life and economic activity in rural areas, and this also includes funding for community centre projects. It is delivered through Local Action Groups across rural Ireland who have responsibility for the selection and approval of projects.

Finally, funding is also available for community centre related projects under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and the Rural Regeneration Development Fund. The Town and Village Renewal Scheme is currently open for applications via local authorities, and I expect to announce a further call for applications under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund later this year.