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