merrion street

Additional funding of €17 million for targeted measures in 2020

Mr Michael Ring TD, the Minister for Rural and Community Development and Minister of State, Mr Seán Canney TD today (Thursday 10 October) welcomed the funding allocations made available to the Department of Rural and Community Development as part of Budget 2020.

The overall level of funding for the Department will increase from €291 million in 2019 to €308 million in 2020. This will facilitate the continued delivery of key programmes for rural Ireland and communities across the country; and provide an additional €17 million to support priority areas.

The additional funding will be used to support sectors and communities nationwide that will potentially be most impacted by Brexit, and to enhance supports across the community development area – in particular for disadvantaged communities.  

Budget 2020 will:

• Increase investment in the LEADER programme, which supports rural economic growth, from €30 million to €40 million;
• provide additional funding for the cross-border PEACE programme, increasing funding from €5 million to €7 million;
• fund a €3 million package of targeted supports for the community and voluntary sector, and organisations and individuals in disadvantaged communities; and
• increase investment in libraries from €6.2 million to €7.2 million.

Speaking today Minister Ring said:

Given the context in which this Budget was agreed – I think the outcome for my Department demonstrates the Governments continued commitment to supporting rural and community development across Ireland. Maintaining funding for our important programmes and schemes means we will continue to have a strong positive impact on rural Ireland and for communities throughout the country.

Minister Ring added:

The budget increase of €17 million is particularly welcome and has been provided to allow for a number of targeted initiatives that will help mitigate the impact of Brexit and further build resilience in our communities and across the community and voluntary sector.

Welcoming today’s Budget announcement, Minister Canney said: 

I also welcome the fact that the Department can continue the full range of programmes and schemes – which are making a real difference on the ground. I am delighted to see additional targeted funding for the community development and, in particular, that Government funding will further support local engagement in decision making throughout the country.