Written answers

Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

Community Development Projects

Photo of Réada CroninRéada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein)
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3430. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht for a breakdown of community infrastructure projects identified by his Department, such as town halls, community centres, men’s sheds, and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42885/25]

Photo of Dara CallearyDara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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My Department provides support to a range of community infrastructure projects and community groups groups, including town halls, community centres, and men's sheds. These are a cornerstone of our commitment to strengthening urban and rural communities with the aim of enhancing community well-being and social inclusion. These projects and groups help bring people together, provide important services, and improve the overall well-being of communities.

A range of schemes across my Department support both infrastructure projects and provide more general supports for both infrastructure and the community organisations using these facilities.

Of particular importance is the Community Centre Investment Fund (CCIF) which was established to provide much-needed financial support to community centres across the country. The objective of the fund is to improve the physical condition of community centres, enhance accessibility, and ensure that these facilities can continue to serve the needs of their communities. The CCIF supports a wide range of projects, including the repair, renovation, and upgrading of existing community centres, as well as the construction of new facilities where there is a clear need. It focuses on ensuring that community centres remain accessible, energy-efficient, and fit-for-purpose for modern-day use.

Other schemes such as LEADER, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, CLÁR and the Local Enhancement Programme also provide different levels of support for such infrastructure. I would also note that Men's Sheds are supported through the Local Enhancement Programme, and I recently announced specific targets support for Men's Sheds throughout the country.

Details of all projects funded under the schemes operated by my Department are available on my Departments website www.gov.ie/drcdg

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