2025. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development whether there will be a further round of offers for the Community Recognition Fund; if so, if entrants will have to apply again; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34201/24]

The Community Recognition Fund was first introduced in 2023 to recognise the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland. Funding of €50 million was approved for some 900 projects. I was delighted to announce a further €50 million in funding under the Community Recognition Fund earlier this year.

Applications under the current round of funding can be submitted by local authorities across three rounds, so as to allow flexibility and adequate engagement and collaboration on larger projects.  The phased closing dates for receipt of applications are May 31st, September 30th and January 31st, 2025.

Each local authority was required to create a dedicated space on their website outlining the various ways communities can access Community Recognition Funding and details of any workshop/consultation events. A link for each local authority can be found on my Department's website: www.gov.ie/en/service/e626a-community-recognition-fund-2023/

Last month, I was delighted to announce funding of €16.5 million to deliver 185 projects around the country under round 1. Applications are now open for round 2 and I would encourage community groups to contact their local authority about any projects they have in mind.

Any community group or organisation who has submitted an application that was not selected for funding under round one, should engage with their local authority to discuss the application further.