Westmeath Community Development

Éamon Ó Cuív T.D., Minister of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, today (24/08/09) announced that payment for projects has commenced under the Rural Development Programme through LEADER companies.  LEADER companies are also currently processing applications for more projects worth over €25m.

Speaking today, Minister Ó Cuív said:

“This announcement today comes on the back of the launch late last year of the new Rural Development Programme which promises some €425m of State and European funding up to 2013.  I am delighted that projects on the ground are beginning to see real impact of this funding.  The indications are that spending under this Programme will increase rapidly over the coming months and it is envisaged that the full amount of €425m will be spent by 2013”.

He also commented; “Funding under the Rural Development Programme should create up to 12,000 front-line jobs and many more supporting jobs.  This Programme has a particular focus on the opportunities of indigenous small-scale enterprise, particularly in the small food sector and rural recreation.  Our local government policy is focussed on ensuring that this programme will deliver in the rural areas that it is intended for.  This funding is going towards creating jobs and improving the quality of life in rural areas”.