78. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if an rural regeneration and development fund, RRDF, application (details supplied) can be expedited given the declining condition of the building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25392/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

Can the RRDF application submitted by Galway County Council in regard to the redevelopment of Gort convent be expedited? It is an urgent project, given the declining condition of the building. It is important to the local community and I urge the Government to approve it as soon as possible.

Sentiment score: 0.13

This application is about progressing plans to transform the convent into a remote working and cultural and community hub. I acknowledge the work of the Gort Town Team and other local groups on this project. There are many active groups in the area that would like to make use of such facilities, including the resource centre, the forge and many more that do fantastic work in the area. This is an iconic building in the town. It has had many uses over the years but has been vacant for some time. It is on the path to decline. There is urgency around this to secure the building and prevent it from falling into disrepair. It is a very important application for the town of Gort. I would ask that the application be expedited, if at all possible, and approved to allow these important plans to proceed. The Minister mentioned "later this year" as a timeline. Is it possible to give a more specific timeframe than that?

Sentiment score: 0.18

I welcome the Minister's engagement with the council and the town team. I emphasise the declining condition of this building and its historical significance. It cannot be lost. There is much urgency around this. The plans the council and the local community have would be transformational for the local area. It is an exciting project but, obviously, funding is needed to progress it. I ask that the need to protect the building be taken on board. Is it possible to get any further clarity on the timeline as to when a decision is expected to be made in this regard?

Sentiment score: 0.34