Sinn Féin TD for Limerick City, Maurice Quinlivan, has sought assurances from the Taoiseach that funding for the Economic and Social Intervention Fund (ESIF) of the Limerick Regeneration Framework Implementation Plan will be continued into 2024 and beyond.

The Economic and Social Intervention Fund has financially supported 180 social, economic and community development projects across Limerick and in particular its’s four regeneration areas.

Addressing the Taoiseach in the Dáil, Deputy Quinlivan stated:

“Whilst the Limerick Regeneration Plan has been a disappointment in many aspects since its launch in 2009, the Social Intervention Fund has had a positive impact on many people, families, and projects across the whole of Limerick City – it has changed and saved lives – that is how important it is.

“Some of the projects include the Bedford Row Family Project, Limerick Youth Service and Limerick Island Community Partners serving the King’s Island area. It supports Our Lady of Lourdes Community centre and Moyross groups like Extern Ireland and the community enterprise centre. It has also benefited St Munchin’s Community Enterprise Centre.”

The Limerick TD queried whether funding would continue to be allocated to the fund in 2024 and beyond.

Deputy Quinlivan warned:

“This important fund is due to end in 2023 and a failure to extend this funding will have a catastrophic impact within these communities and a failure to ensure continued funding will undo the years of good work that has been done in these Limerick communities.

“Many people are extremely worried and concerned that there is no clarity as to what happens in 2024 and beyond. The Government’s need to confirm its support to ensure this fund is extended into 2024 and beyond.”

Speaking afterwards, Deputy Quinlivan added:

“Unfortunately, following my question today neither the Taoiseach nor the Minister for Housing and Local Government were able to provide an immediate response to me. However, they have both confirmed that they will revert to me shortly and I have also been in contact with the Darragh O’Brien Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage of Ireland to ensure this vital support is continued.

“Hopefully we will get a positive response and the fund will be extended and projects that are supported will be able to continue to provide the vital services which are desperately necessary.”