Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 October 2024
93. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development to provide an update on the LEADER programme; the measures that have been funded for climate change mitigation and adaptation; the amount of funding that was allocated to LEADER in Budget 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40519/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe LEADER Programme is a key intervention of Our Rural Future, the Government’s Policy for rural development which aims to deliver a range of actions to rural communities over the lifetime of the policy. It supports a broad range of activities which aim to respond to the diversity of the local needs of our rural areas.
Since the 2014-2022 LEADER programme became operational in 2016, over 5,800 project were approved for funding of in excess of €240 million. This programme has now closed and 99% of approved projects have been completed. Final claims for payment are currently being processed by my Department.
The 2023-2027 LEADER Programme has now commenced and LAGs are in the early stages of implementation, which involves engaging with their respective communities to develop project applications.
The LEADER programme is implemented across thematic areas. Under the 2014-2022 LEADER Programme, the Rural Environmental theme included measures aimed at addressing climate change through initiatives in relation to renewable energy. Over €8 million was approved for projects in this category.
The 2023-2027 LEADER programme has a greater focus on climate change and includes a specific sub-theme in relation to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The type of activities covered under this subtheme will include actions that reduce the carbon footprint of the community and local industry, actions that protect the environment through greater awareness of environmental issues, and promote the efficient use of natural resources and heritage preservation. LAGs have identified in their Local Development Strategies the measures they will undertake to include these activities in their action plans. I look forward to seeing these project come to fruition as the programme progresses.
With regard to the Budget 2025, funding of €42 million has been allocated to ensure the delivery of the LEADER programme and I am satisfied that this level of funding will sufficient to cover all aspects of implementing the programme next year.
