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Smith confirms Cavan and Monaghan to get €12 million LEADER funding under new Rural Development Programme
The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Cavan/Monaghan T.D., Mr. Brendan Smith has confirmed today (4 November) that over €12 million has been allocated to counties Cavan and Monaghan from LEADER funding under the new Rural Development Programme 2007-2013.
Cavan Partnership Ltd and County Monaghan Area Partnership Ltd will receive €12,035,118, under the largest ever package for rural development. The funding will be distributed to local community groups and individuals through the above Partnerships to a range of projects in rural areas, including diversification into non-agricultural activities, business creation, basic community services, tourism, village renewal and development, conservation and rural heritage.
Confirming the funding, which was announced by his colleague, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Mr. Eamon O’Cuiv, T.D., Minister Smith said that it had the potential to inject new life into rural areas of Cavan and Monaghan. “This Government is determined to promote enterprise and opportunity in rural areas. Although we face enormous challenges due to the current economic situation, it is important that we make rural life as sustainable as possible. This new Rural Development Programme is a clear demonstration of this Government’s commitment to rural life and I look forward to Cavan Partnership Ltd and County Monaghan Area Partnership supporting a range of projects that will make a real difference to communities on the ground”, he said.
In conclusion, Minister Smith wished the members of Cavan Partnership Ltd and County Monaghan Area Partnership Ltd well and encouraged them to ensure that this very significant level of funding will make a real and lasting impact in the rural areas of both counties.
