In line with the ‘bottom-up’ approach to rural development under the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, there are 35 Local Action Groups (LAGs) contracted, on my Department’s behalf, to deliver the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 (RDP) throughout the country. The LAG for the area referred to in the question is Mayo North East LEADER Partnership (MNELP). The LAGs are the principal decision-makers in relation to the allocation of project funding. Such decisions are made in the context of the local development strategy of the individual groups and in line with the programme’s operating rules and EU regulations.
I understand that MNELP received an application from the promoter in question in 2011 but project approvals were suspended pending the completion of my Department’s investigation into governance issues in the LAG. The LAG contract was reinstated on 18 July 2013; I understand that MNELP has recently received updated documentation from the promoter and expects to submit the project file to my Department for final review very shortly.