588. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the status of a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33468/26]

The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) is a major capital investment programme which seeks to support large-scale, ambitious projects that can achieve sustainable economic and social development in rural areas. RRDF provides funding for the development and construction of capital projects in towns and villages in rural areas across Ireland. Funding is allocated to local authorities and other State-funded bodies, who take the lead role in individual projects.

Since the RRDF was established, funding of over €612 million has been approved for 272 projects nationwide, including funding of over €43 million approved for 27 projects located across County Cork.

Cork County Council is the designated Lead Body for the Youghal Public Library project. As the Lead Body, which was awarded over €4 million in RRDF funding to delivery the library, the Council is fully responsible for the management and delivery of the project including planning permission, design, contractor procurement and delivery of the construction works.

In developing its plans, the Council has confirmed it is seeking to carry out the renovation and extension of a collection of derelict buildings on Youghal's North Main Street to provide a new library and revitalised streetscape.

In its latest project update to my department, Cork County Council has confirmed it will be publishing a Part 8 planning notice on the proposed development for public consultation in the next four to six weeks. This follows on a redesign requirement identified by the Council.

On completion of this work, the Council will be required to re-engage with my Department officials as part of the ongoing engagement in place between my department and lead bodies to support the delivery of projects.