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Leader Programmes Funding

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 November 2017

Tuesday, 7 November 2017

Questions (1161)

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

1161. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if there will be changes in the Leader criteria for funding; and his plans to make applications easier. [46516/17]

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Written answers

LEADER plays a valuable role in supporting rural development and is an important part of the Government's Action Plan for Rural Development.  I am committed to implementing the LEADER programme as effectively as possible. However, I am also conscious that concerns were raised earlier this year by project promoters and Local Action Groups regarding the implementation of the programme, including the application process and associated criteria.

In light of those concerns, a forum was held in May with participants from all of the Local Action Groups and the Local Development Companies delivering LEADER. The forum provided a platform to explore the administrative issues impacting on project approvals, and to identify potential solutions to the issues identified.  

Arising from the forum, my Department introduced a series of 31 actions to improve the procedures and criteria that apply to the LEADER Programme. These actions will result in very significant changes to the way the programme is delivered and make the application process easier for all concerned.  For example, a standardised Application Form has been introduced which will assist both project promoters and the Local Action Groups who review the proposals for decision.  There is also greater flexibility for Local Action Groups in the approach they take to seeking project proposals through rolling and targeted calls for proposals.

The actions cut across almost every aspect of the delivery of the LEADER programme. Most of the measures have already been introduced, while the remainder are being progressed in collaboration with the Local Action Groups and their Implementing Partners where appropriate.

Progress in implementing the actions was discussed by the Monitoring Committee on the Action Plan for Rural Development at its meeting of 26th October. There was general agreement that progress was being made in implementing the actions and that their full effect should be seen in the coming months.  The amount of funding approved by the Local Action Groups has already increased significantly in the last number of months. Over €10.5 million has been approved for LEADER projects since July, compared to €0.9 million in the first six months of the year.

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