Liam Aylward
Ceist:156 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will outline the approval received from the EC towards Ireland for the LEADER programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - LEADER Programme.
As I announced on 21 November, 17 Irish rural development groups are to receive funding under the LEADER programme. The EC will contribute about £21 million and up to £14 million will come from the Exchequer.
The EC Commission will formally announce eight of the successful groups later this month and the remaining nine groups will be announced early in the new year.
The total investment to be undertaken by the groups is about £70 million over the next two years.