RDP (LEADER) 2014-2020

Introduction

LEADER is a community-led approach to local development delivering EU funding to rural businesses and communities through Ireland’s Rural Development Programme 2014-2020. It promotes social inclusion, poverty reduction and the economic development of rural areas. The LEADER Programme is based on a bottom-up approach to rural development whereby rural communities and people identify their own needs and propose solutions.

Governance

There are 3 partners delivering the LEADER Programme in Longford:

  • Longford Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) is the Local Action Group (LAG) with ultimate responsibility for overseeing the delivery of the LEADER programme in the County.
  • Longford Community Resources Clg are the implementing partner for the programme with responsibility for implementing actions in the county on behalf of the Local Action Group (LCDC) and will be the point of contact for any project enquiries and applications.
  • Longford County Council are the financial partner of the LEADER programme.

Funding Available

The total funding available for RDP 2014-2020 in County Longford under the various Themes and Sub-Themes of the Programme to support the sustainable development of County Longford is €7,597,623. The programme places major emphasis on the implementation of innovative approaches to rural development at local level, which must be linked to the Local Development Strategy created for County Longford.

Local Development Strategy (LDS)

The Local Development Strategy for County Longford was developed following a public countywide consultation process, an analysis of relevant socio-economic data and a review of current service provision in the county.  A number of key objectives which focus on economic development, social inclusion and rural environment were agreed. These objectives reflect the key challenges facing Co Longford and the areas in need of the greatest support. All funding decisions taken by the LAG are underpinned by the Local Development Strategy objectives and priorities.

Contact

Longford Community Resources Clg is the first and main point of contact for project promoters. Information on the Programme, current calls for applications and Expression of Interest and Application Packs and can be found at LCRL-LEADER

Any queries relating to the LCDC role in the Programme should be directed to the Chief Officer of the LCDC at lcdc@longfordcoco.ie

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