Local action groups face fund cuts if they don’t improve

LOCAL action groups have been told they will lose their share of €425 million funding for rural development “if they are not able to step up to the plate” with valid projects.

Funded 55% from the EU and 45% from the exchequer, the largest ever LEADER package for rural development can be drawn down between now and 2015 by 36 local action groups.

Indicative spend figures were initially agreed for each group, according to Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs secretary general Seosamh O hÁghmaill.