O’SULLIVAN AGAIN QUESTIONS GOVERNMENT ON FUNDING COMMITMENTS FOR REGNERATION PLAN
Issued : Thursday 13 May, 2010
Limerick Labour Deputy Jan O’Sullivan has once again asked the million dollar question of when will the Government announce and confirm what level of funding it intends to allocate so as to enable specific regeneration projects to start in designated housing estates in Limerick.
While the proposed regeneration plans have received the complete support of those living within affected areas along with the wider community the plans have been dogged from the outset due to the uncertainty of just how much funding will be allocated.
The Government requested that the regeneration agency modify their plans in light of the changing economic circumstances last year and draw up a priority list of projects that would significantly enhance the quality of people’s lives. The agency submitted last March such a list outlining in detail were it proposed to build new houses, community facilities, and physical environment works.
However we still have no answer from Government as to what if any funds will be allocated for works to begin. With the planning process still to be gone through we could be another year at a minimum before local’s residents witness any tangible activity taking place apart from ongoing demolition of derelict houses.
With thousands of skilled people looking for work in Limerick a funding commitment from Government to the regeneration agency would act as an economic catalyst for the region by creating much needed employment while simultaneously improving the community.
The recently launched Government national solidarity bonds which may yield hundreds of millions should be ring fenced and targeted at projects such as those identified by the regeneration agency.
The faith and commitment shown by those dealing with the issues from living in affected housing estates is now at an all time low and nothing short of a Government announcement confirming significant funds for various projects will rejuvenate people’s confidence in the regeneration project.
