The local improvement scheme is one of the best schemes we have seen in terms of reaching corners of all parts of rural Ireland that may not necessarily have street lights or that may be waiting for broadband to be delivered. We should be encouraging councils to clear all their backlogs rather than breaking it down into districts or otherwise. If we can see a way to a situation where applications are sought, funding is provided and those lists are cleared, we must work in that regard. If we have a situation where districts are split, we can see waiting lists of years in some locations and a matter of months in others. We need to streamline it to ensure consistency right across counties.

Sentiment score: 0.41

85. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if there is a central set of criteria which apply under the local enhancement programme, given that the funding is decided at a local level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14607/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

I wish both the Minister and the Minister of State well in their new roles. I ask if there is a central set of criteria which apply under the local enhancement programme, given that the funding is decided at a local level, and if the Minister will make a statement on the matter.

Sentiment score: 0.31

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Rialtas as an obair le deich mbliana anuas chun tacú le tuath na hÉireann. It is important to look at the last ten years and see the progress that has been made in rural Ireland, with the establishment of this very Department in providing a strategic plan, a focus and funding for every rural community. Through the Local Government Reform Act 2014, I have seen first hand, through the establishment of the local community development committee and as a former chair, the difference it can make. However, none of this can be done without the support of volunteers, and it is important to recognise and acknowledge the work they do in every community right across Offaly and across the country. In Offaly today, the local community development committee will approve 213 grants under this scheme for 2025. It is a key support for successful groups, but there are some that did not qualify due to-----

Sentiment score: 0.28

I ask that feedback might be taken from local authorities on the applications that were made and the sums that were sought versus what was actually allocated to see what shortfall there was, if any. It is important where good initiatives come forward that they get the full support of the Government and the State. Second, there is a time element as regards the administration burden on local community groups. I ask that the Department give consideration to the establishment of a portal online that would allow the likes of community groups to upload all their credentials and documentation on the one occasion and that would be there as an ongoing record. I am conscious that some of these positions on local voluntary groups can be on a transient basis. A chair or a secretary could move on as well as the email address. We need to move to a position where we have generalised email addresses for committees. Also, if they have a portal identified, it ensures there is no breakdown. It also reduces the administration for local authority staff.

Sentiment score: 0.10