My Department operates a range of initiatives, schemes and programmes that support the social and economic development of the western region and the growth of rural business and enterprise. Relevant schemes include the Rural Development Programme, the CLÁR programme, the Rural Social Scheme, the Enterprise Scheme for non-Gaeltacht offshore islands and the Community Services Programme and Rural Recreation Schemes.
The LEADER element of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2007–2013, includes particular measures in relation to rural enterprise development. The overall aim of the new LEADER Programme is to improve the quality of life in rural areas and promote the diversification of the rural economy, which I believe is key to achieving sustainable economic growth and stability in rural regions. The Deputy will be aware that I recently announced the outcome of the selection process for Local Action Groups to deliver the LEADER element of the RDP and I expect it to be open to applications from local project promoters shortly.
The funding available for the delivery of LEADER-type activities under the RDP will amount to €425.4 million — almost treble the €150 million available for the 2000-06 period. In relation to the Western Region, the Local Action Groups have between them secured more than €117.5m. This does not include additional allocations, which will benefit Gaeltacht and Island regions. The new programme will also complement the other rural development measures operated by my Department.
In addition to the schemes and programmes operated directly by my Department, the Deputy will also be aware that responsibility for the creation of employment in Gaeltacht areas rests with Údarás na Gaeltachta, a body that comes within the ambit of my Department. The work of this body includes the development of rural enterprises. Following continued investment over the past number of years, Údarás has maintained the overall employment base in the Galway and Mayo Gaeltacht region, with 3,711 people in full time employment and 1,577 in part time employment in client companies at the end of 2007. Information in relation to assistance provided by Údarás na Gaeltachta is published in that organisation's Annual Report and Accounts which, under sections 18 and 19 of the Údarás na Gaeltachta Act 1979, are laid annually before each of the Houses of the Oireachtas. Information is also available on its website at www.udaras.ie.
Finally, the Western Development Commission, another body that comes within the ambit of my Department, has responsibility for fostering and promoting economic and social development, including rural enterprise and job creation in the Western Region. Since its inception in 2000 up to the end of 2007, it has invested over €31m and helped to create or sustain 1,086 jobs in the Region. Further information in relation to the support provided by the WDC is published in that organisation's Annual Report and Accounts, which are also laid annually before each of the Houses of the Oireachtas. Information is also available on its website at www.wdc.ie.