COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

MOTION NO.22

MOTION: Councillor C. Brady

This committee calls on the Chief Executive to conduct a comprehensive review of community grants to groups in the LPNC LEA to assess whether current funding levels remain sufficient given the increasing costs faced by community groups. The review should evaluate the impact of rising expenses on the ability of groups to deliver services and activities, and, where necessary, what adjustments may be applied to ensure adequate financial support.

REPORT:

Community grants are reviewed annually, with recommendations to increase the budget made as part of the Council’s budget-setting process. In recognition of growing demand and rising operational costs faced by community groups, funding for all community development streams has increased over each of the past two years. 

 
Grants are assessed using a multi-criteria analysis by our community officers, who ensure that allocations are equitable and responsive to local needs. Where applications are unsuccessful, officers provide feedback and support to help groups strengthen future submissions.
 
While regular review mechanisms are already in place, we acknowledge the importance of continually assessing whether current funding levels remain sufficient in the face of increasing costs. We will consider whether a more targeted review is needed to evaluate the specific impacts of rising expenses on service delivery within the LPNC LEA, and whether further adjustments to grant levels may be warranted.