CANNEY CALLS FOR LEADER FUNDING TO CONTINUE WITHOUT INTERRUPTION
Galway East TD and Minister for Rural Affairs Seán Canney has said LEADER funding for disadvantaged rural areas must continue into next year without delay.
Minister Canney said: “LEADER funding has proved vital in supporting rural communities.
“The LEADER programme for 2014-2020 has €250 million allocated for Rural Ireland, including more than €12 million for Galway County.
“It is imperative that the next LEADER programme should follow on into 2021 without any delays.
“There is concern that a funding hiatus could develop between the end of the current programme and the start of the next one while processes for delivery are being determined.
“It should be a priority for the next Programme for Government that this does not happen.
“LEADER has been a lifeline for many groups and organisations throughout Galway and there must be no interruption to these supports, particularly in light of the financial challenges presented by the COVID-19 virus.”
LEADER funding supports a wide range of projects, including those aimed at economic and enterprise development, job creation, rural tourism, rural environment and social inclusion.
For more information, contact Minister Canney on 086-2513639
May 28 2020