Ireland is missing out on crucial EU funding
Ireland is falling behind other EU countries in accessing funding for social enterprise development, a Fine Gael MEP has said.
MEP Maria Walsh raised the issue in Strasbourg this week where she spoke about the need for a coordinated national approach to maximise Ireland’s drawdown of EU funds for social enterprises.
Ireland is set to receive €508 million in European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) funds from the EU over the 2021–2027 period. However, MEP Walsh warned that Ireland consistently draws down less funding per capita than other Member States.
Maria Walsh MEP said:
“The EU plays a key role in funding the development of social enterprises - but the distribution of this money across Member States is far from equal. In particular, Ireland consistently draws down less funding per capita than other EU countries.
“This is not due to a lack of demand or innovation within the sector, but because of the absence of a coordinated national framework or dedicated body to engage effectively with EU programmes, support applications, and represent the interests of social enterprises at European level.
“The money is there, the appetite is there, and the innovation is there. However, many social enterprises do not have the required knowledge or resources to easily access EU money - this must be simplified immediately.
“Across the European Union, there are almost 13 million people employed in social enterprises. These organisations make a vital contribution to local economies, social cohesion, and the green and digital transitions. Ireland must ensure our social enterprises are not left behind.
“This week in Parliament, I raised the issue directly with the European Commission. I asked what steps they recommend to help Ireland access EU funding on an equitable basis and whether establishing a national coordinating mechanism would improve participation and uptake for social enterprises here.
“I will also be raising this issue at home with my colleagues in Government, and in particular will explore the potential of developing a dedicated body to simplify the EU funding process.”