CLAR scheme funds farmers’ markets
Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Minister Eamon Ó Cuiv announced the expansion of the scheme to provide the funding, which may also be used for the upgrade of existing farmers’ markets in CLAR areas.
CLAR is a programme designed to tackle the problem of depopulation, decline and lack of services in rural areas. The areas included cover parts of the counties of Connacht, Ulster and Munster as well as parts of four counties in Leinster.
LEADER companies and local authorities operate the village and countryside enhancement scheme, with financial assistance from the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs through the CLÁR scheme.
Mr Ó Cuiv said the village and countryside enhancement scheme is a fine example of the many ways in which the CLAR programme provides practical, imaginative solutions to the problems of falling farmers’ incomes and rural depopulation.
The availability of locally grown/produced food at a local market is an added feature to areas seeking to attract people to come and live in their communities.
Eligible projects will include the installation/ upgrading of water, power and drainage facilities, as well as painting, flooring and minor building repairs if the market is indoors.
Lockable storage facility for stalls/units when not in use, canopies/ awnings, picnic benches and tables, signage advertising for markets and covered waste bins will also be eligible.
