Emer Currie (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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1062. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the funding for current and capital grant support available for development of Irish language and cultural centres; and the process by which interested parties can apply for funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39168/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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An allocation of €4.75m is available in 2025 under my Department's Irish Language Support Schemes for the development of Irish language and cultural centres outside the Gaeltacht.

The purpose of the capital assistance provided under this scheme is to strengthen the Irish language as a community and family language in line with the objectives of the 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030. This fund is aimed at constructing and renovating buildings for use as Irish language centres and funding is also available to purchase equipment for such centres.

Applications are accepted from community-based organisations and funding of up to 80% of eligible costs may be awarded depending on the case. Capital costs as well as professional costs (i.e. engineering/architectural advice) may be included for grant purposes.

The application form which details the main assessment criteria and conditions for funding can be found on my Departments website. However, potential applicants are advised to contact my Department to discuss any potential funding prior to submitting any formal application.

It should be noted that Foras na Gaeilge also administers a scheme, Scéim Forbartha na Líonraí Gaeilge (the Irish Language Network Development Scheme) supporting communities to employ Irish language development officers. Details of this scheme are available on the organisation's website.