4156. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will review correspondence (details supplied); if he will address the decision to deem the preliminary application of the organisation concerned ineligible under the Community Services Programme Open Call 2026; whether the appeal submitted on behlaf of the organisation will be considered given circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62165/26]

An Open Call for applications to join the Community Services Programme (CSP) was launched on 30 March this year. The closing date for receipt of preliminary applications was 08 May. Pobal, which administers the Programme on behalf of my Department, notified all applicants of the outcome of the preliminary application stage in mid-July.

Following this, Pobal issued correspondence to all unsuccessful applicants outlining the appropriate channels to submit an appeal against a decision on an application.

The process as detailed in the appeal guidelines was put in place to ensure a fair and transparent process for all applicants and to uphold the integrity of the Open Call.

The closing date for receipt of appeals was 20th August 2026, and all appellants will be notified directly by Pobal of the outcome of their appeal in due course.