Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 September 2020
29. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Community and Rural Development and the Islands if the role that LEADER companies can play in supporting small rural businesses to overcome the challenges posed by Covid-19 has been explored; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24193/20]
View answerThe LEADER programme is delivered through 29 Local Action Groups (LAGs) across rural Ireland. The programme includes a specific funding strand to support Rural Economic Development, Enterprise Development and Job Creation.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the LAGs, in conjunction with Local Development Companies who act as Implementing Partners in most areas, have approved over 200 projects under the Rural Economic Development, Enterprise Development and Job Creation theme of LEADER.
The value of these projects is in excess of €8.4 million and the type of monetary supports provided include direct capital for construction and purchase of equipment, analysis and development type projects, and marketing and training projects.
These projects will bring much needed assistance to small businesses at this time, as well as supporting job retention and new employment opportunities.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has also introduced a range of supports to businesses of all sizes to help them to cope with the impact of the COVID-19 virus on the economy. I would encourage all businesses to consider availing of these supports. Full details are available on the Gov.ie website.
