Groups should oppose Ó Cuív’s Leader changes

THE Leader rural development programmes have for the most part worked very well and contributed to sustaining rural communities through sponsorship of community projects and small businesses.

Leader at present consists of 36 local committees of community volunteers with a few paid staff. The Leader committees study the needs of their community, screen and select local proposals for funding and monitor the projects.

Such a close-to-home programme has enabled local people to enhance their communities effectively with playgrounds, community centres and cottage industries that provide employment, etc. Compared to many other EU-funded schemes, Leader has given good value for money.