Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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1005. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the funding streams available for a childcare facility for works (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52070/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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My Department supports playgrounds and other community facilities that are not privately owned and are widely available for free for community use. This includes support through the CLÁR Programme, LEADER, the Local Enhancement Programme and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme.

Measure 1 of the CLÁR programme provides funding for community recreation facilities and amenities, including playgrounds. The CLÁR 2025 programme opened on 4 April this year and my officials are currently assessing the applications submitted under measure 1. I hope to announce the successful projects later in the year. A new iteration of the scheme will open again next year.

The LEADER Programme provides support to rural communities under a range of themes, including rural infrastructure and social inclusion themes. LEADER has for many years supported playground projects submitted by community groups. However schools and childcare facilities are ineligible for LEADER funding.

The Local Enhancement Programme provides funding to community groups in disadvantaged areas nationwide, and playgrounds can be supported. The programme is administered by Local Community Development Committees across the country, with support from their local authority

Playgrounds and other community infrastructure can also be funded through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) as part of larger projects aimed at the rejuvenation of our towns and villages. It is important to note that single private enterprises are not supported under TVRS. The 2025 TVRS closed to applications on 25 July 2025 and the assessment process is ongoing.

Details of all funding available can be found on my Departments website.