Written answer
Departmental Funding
The Minister confirmed receipt of the organisation’s CLÁR 2026 application for an enhanced first-response 4x4 vehicle, with successful Measure 2 projects to be announced shortly.
4130. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to support an application for the upgrading of equipment to ensure rescue operations are carried out with the latest and most modern and reliable equipment (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61143/26]
Comment on this
The CLÁR programme provides funding under a number of different measures for small-scale infrastructural projects in designated rural areas. Last year over €14 million was announced for 238 projects under the programme, with funding being provided for community facilities and amenities, community vehicles and specific support for island communities.
The 2026 CLÁR programme was launched on March 10th this year with a record budget of €12 million.
The Measures funded under CLÁR 2026 are:
Measure 1: Developing Community Facilities & Amenities
Measure 2: Mobility, Cancer Care, First Responder and Meals on Wheels Transport
Measure 3: Our Living Islands
The closing date for receipt of Measure 2 applications was May 22nd. I can confirm that an application for the purchase of an enhanced Community First Response 4x4 vehicle under Measure 2 was received from the organisation referenced by the Deputy
The assessment of all CLÁR applications received is progressing well and I hope to announce the successful Measure 2 projects shortly.