Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 April 2012
929 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if there are any proposals to allow local authorities to act as project promoters to apply for the community rate of aid from the Leader Programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19487/12]
View answerThe implementation of Axis 3 and 4 (LEADER) of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) is being closely monitored and it has become apparent that declining economic activity and access to credit facilities are having a negative impact on project activity under the Programme. In the current economic climate, it has been difficult for private individuals and community groups to obtain the matched funding required to avail of support under the programme, particularly for larger projects.
As part of a suite of measures to address these and other issues relating to the delivery of the RDP my Department has recently submitted a number of proposals to the European Commission regarding possible RDP Programme amendments, one of which will allow Local Authorities to act as project promoters eligible to apply for the community rate of aid. It will be a requirement that any applications for funding from a Local Authority will be in partnership with a community group. This amendment, coupled with a proposed rate of aid change, will reduce the matching and bridging funding required from community groups, thereby increasing the likely uptake under the Programme. It is also envisaged that the assistance provided by the Local Authority will result in communities moving forward with projects they would not otherwise have considered due to the workload involved and the detailed plans required for some projects of a very complex nature.
All programme changes require the approval of the European Commission and its decision is awaited. All Local Development Companies will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible.
