4269. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the estimated cost in 2027, if the budget for the CLAR Programme is increased by 15%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56469/26]

The CLÁR programme provides funding under a number of different measures for small-scale infrastructural projects in designated rural areas. Last year 238 projects were supported under the programme, with funding being provided for community facilities and amenities, community vehicles and specific support for island communities.

Funding for the CLÁR programme has increased from €5m in 2020 to its current allocation of €12m. An increase of 15% would require an additional provision of €1.8 million

I will continue to keep the budget for CLÁR under review in the overall context of available funding for my Department's Rural Development Investment Programme